Description
Thin Lizzy – Jailbreak – 180 Gram Overmaster Orange Vinyl Record
Vinyl Me, Please exclusive pressing.
VMP Essentials Record of the Month for August 2022.
• Thin Lizzy’s Breakout 1976 Tour de Force, Featuring “The Boys are Back in Town” and “Jailbreak”
• Lacquers cut by Kevin Gray, Cohearant Audio
• Pressed on Exclusive 180g “Overmaster Orange” Vinyl
• Listening Notes by Steven Hyden; Art Print by Jim Fitzpatrick
VMP Essentials
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Jailbreak is the sixth studio album by the Irish rock band Thin Lizzy, released on March 26, 1976. It is one of the band’s most iconic albums and a defining moment in their career, featuring some of their most famous songs, including the classic rock anthems “The Boys Are Back in Town” and “Jailbreak.” The album cemented Thin Lizzy’s status as one of the leading hard rock bands of the 1970s, combining powerful riffs, twin guitar harmonies, and Phil Lynott’s distinctive vocals and storytelling lyrics.
Produced by John Alcock, Jailbreak is known for its mix of hard rock, blues, and a hint of progressive rock influences, as well as its thematic concept, with some songs loosely referencing a jailbreak storyline. It became the band’s breakthrough album in the United States, expanding their international fan base.
By 1976, Thin Lizzy had already established themselves in Europe with a few successful albums, but they had yet to achieve significant commercial success in the United States. Led by bassist, vocalist, and primary songwriter Phil Lynott, the band was known for their energetic live performances and their twin guitar attack, courtesy of Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson. With “Jailbreak,” the band focused on crafting an album that could make an impact on both sides of the Atlantic.
The album came together after Thin Lizzy’s previous album “Fighting” (1975) had laid the groundwork for their harder-edged sound. The decision to refine their songwriting and create a more cohesive album with radio-friendly singles paid off, as “Jailbreak” went on to become their biggest commercial success.
Jailbreak features a dynamic mix of hard-hitting rock tracks and more introspective songs, showcasing Thin Lizzy’s versatility and Phil Lynott’s ability to blend storytelling with rock and roll energy.
“Jailbreak” – The album opens with its title track, an explosive hard rock anthem that sets the tone for the record. With its heavy riff and rebellious lyrics, “Jailbreak” quickly became a fan favorite and a staple of Thin Lizzy’s live shows. The song tells the story of a prison escape, fitting with the album’s loose concept.
“Angel from the Coast” – Featuring the twin guitar harmonies of Gorham and Robertson, this track is a fast-paced, groove-driven rocker. The intricate guitar work and Lynott’s storytelling lyrics about a criminal on the run make it a standout track.
“Running Back” – One of the more melodic songs on the album, “Running Back” shows Thin Lizzy’s softer side. With a catchy chorus and more pop-oriented feel, it balances the harder tracks on the album. The song’s lyrical theme of lost love adds emotional depth to the record.
“Romeo and the Lonely Girl” – A melancholic rock ballad, this song tells the tragic story of unrequited love, showcasing Lynott’s gift for narrative songwriting. The song’s combination of emotional lyrics and layered guitar work creates a poignant and reflective moment on the album.
“The Boys Are Back in Town” – Perhaps Thin Lizzy’s most famous song, this track became a global hit and is now considered a classic rock staple. With its unforgettable riff, catchy chorus, and vivid lyrics about a group of rowdy friends reuniting, the song captures the carefree, rebellious spirit of rock and roll. “The Boys Are Back in Town” became the band’s breakthrough hit, especially in the U.S., and remains one of their signature tracks.
“Fight or Fall” – A slower, more introspective song, “Fight or Fall” offers a message of resilience and strength. The gentle guitar work and Lynott’s thoughtful lyrics give the track a reflective tone, contrasting with the album’s more energetic moments.
“Cowboy Song” – Another standout track, “Cowboy Song” is a dynamic rock ballad that combines Lynott’s love of storytelling with powerful guitar riffs. The song builds from a quiet, reflective opening into a full-blown hard rock anthem, telling the tale of a lonesome cowboy. Its cinematic quality and dramatic build-up make it one of the highlights of the album.
“Emerald” – Closing the album on a high note, “Emerald” is a hard-hitting, riff-driven track that features some of the best twin guitar work from Gorham and Robertson. The song’s lyrics, inspired by Irish mythology, reflect Lynott’s Irish heritage, and the powerful instrumentation gives the track an epic, grandiose feel.
Jailbreak is a showcase of Thin Lizzy’s signature sound, combining hard rock with elements of blues and progressive rock. The album is known for its heavy use of twin guitar harmonies, a style that became synonymous with the band’s sound and influenced many future rock and metal acts.
Lyrically, Phil Lynott blends themes of rebellion, love, and mythology with vivid storytelling. Songs like “Jailbreak” and “The Boys Are Back in Town” are rebellious and celebratory, while tracks like “Romeo and the Lonely Girl” and “Running Back” explore themes of heartbreak and loss. “Emerald” and “Cowboy Song” reflect Lynott’s fascination with mythological and Western themes, bringing a narrative depth to the album.
Musically, the album balances heavy, riff-driven rock songs with more melodic and introspective tracks, demonstrating Thin Lizzy’s versatility. The twin guitar interplay between Gorham and Robertson is a highlight, adding a rich, layered texture to the album’s sound.
Jailbreak was a commercial and critical success, becoming Thin Lizzy’s breakthrough album in the United States and elevating them to international fame. “The Boys Are Back in Town” was a massive hit, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100, while the album itself reached No. 18 on the Billboard 200. The title track “Jailbreak” also charted, further solidifying the band’s growing popularity.
Critics praised the album for its energetic performances, sharp songwriting, and innovative guitar work. Phil Lynott’s lyrical storytelling and charismatic presence were also highlighted as key elements of the album’s success.
Jailbreak is considered one of the greatest rock albums of the 1970s and a defining moment in Thin Lizzy’s career. The album helped establish the band as one of the premier hard rock acts of the decade and solidified their influence on future generations of rock and metal bands.
The twin guitar harmonies pioneered by Gorham and Robertson would go on to influence bands like Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Judas Priest, while songs like “The Boys Are Back in Town” and Jailbreak have become timeless rock anthems.
For fans of classic rock, Jailbreak is an essential album that captures Thin Lizzy at the height of their powers, blending hard rock energy with lyrical depth and musical sophistication. It remains a milestone in the history of rock music and a testament to the band’s lasting legacy.
Track Listing
Jailbreak
Angel From The Coast
Running Back
Romeo And The Lonely Girl
Warriors
The Boys Are Back In Town
Fight Or Fall
Cowboy Song
Emerald
