For many, Rory Gallagher was the greatest guitarist ever. The Cork musician could play it all: the blues, country, hard rock and the meanest slide this side of Chicago. Rory regularly made his guitar sing: his live performances in particular were nothing short of magical, entering the realm of folklore as the years rolled on.
Four decades ago, Rory released a record which was quickly recognised as one of the great live albums. Irish Tour ‘74 drew on sets from Cork, Dublin and Belfast and captured a moment in time almost to perfection.
This special deluxe anniversary edition includes full live sets from all of those incendiary shows – and all 56 tracks are a feast for the ears. The list of cuts is wonderfully evocative in itself: ‘Messing With The Kid’, ‘Laundromat’. ‘As The Crow Flies’, ‘Banker’s Blues’, ‘Pistol Slapper Blues’. ‘Going To My Hometown’ and ‘Bullfrog Blues’ are all here in different versions – alongside loads more Gallagher classics. Each city adds its own flavour. Rory’s determination to play in Belfast at the height of the Troubles made him a hero north of the border and so it’s little surprise that the Belfast recordings have an extra spark. Still, each of the seven discs have their own charm. In addition, Disc 8 is the Tony Palmer-directed documentary film, which looks as good now as always, capturing Ireland’s ultimate guitar genius at the height of his magnificent powers. An essential purchase for collectors and those (like myself) who never had the privilege of seeing the great man perform, Irish Tour ‘74 is a release no home should be without.
OUT OCTOBER 17.