A packed Workman’s Club is the venue for the 31st Vibe For Philo, in a novel move the same stripped back line-up play over three consecutive nights - a decision by event organiser Smiley Bolger to get back to basics and place the music centre stage.
Young rockers Bruse open proceedings with a skill and bravado that belies their tender years - all are still in their mid-teens - and bring an energy and vibrance to Lizzy classics that proves the perfect appetiser. Belfast’s Conor Scott then wows with his acoustic interpretations reminding us why he has been asked back to the Vibeon several occasions.
Then the time arrives for the highlight of this year’s show - Brian Downey’s Alive and Dangerous - which sees the Lizzy drummer team up with guitar greats and Vibe regulars Phil Edgar and Brian Grace plus vocalist/bassist Matt Wilson. As hinted in the name they rip through a set of gems from the seminal live album the highlight of which is the ‘Cowboy Song’/ ‘The Boys Are Back In Town’ memorable double whammy. Downey commands his kit as deftly and passionately as he did in the 70s whilst the others jam with sublime skill and power - close your eyes and you’re in the Hammersmith Odeon in 76.
Following the sonic assault Philomena Lynott takes the reigns to thank fans for their loyalty and in addition to Philip pays tribute to late Lizzy road manager Frank Murray.
The night closes with another bevy of classics courtesy of Vibe stalwarts The Low Riders with vocalist Johnny ‘The Fox’ Conlon.
It was raucous. It was sweaty. it was joyous. We can’t wait for next year.