Thin Lizzy is set to make a grand return with their upcoming album titled “Acoustic Sessions,” which will showcase fresh acoustic renditions of their classic hits.
The reimagined tracks are drawn from the band’s early three albums released under Decca Records: “Thin Lizzy,” “Shades of a Blue Orphanage,” and “Vagabonds of the Western World.”
These stripped-down acoustic versions will include an intriguing element—previously unheard vocals from the late frontman Phil Lynott, alongside new guitar contributions from founding member Eric Bell.
In an interview with Guitar Player, Bell shared insights about the project, emphasizing that many of the band’s songs initially started as acoustic compositions:
“I remember recording ‘Eire’ from our debut album, ‘Thin Lizzy,’ back in 1971. I first wrote the main guitar part on acoustic, and then we built the song up from there. I played the 12-string acoustic throughout the track and layered the electric guitar on top.”
“This knowledge proved beneficial in the studio in Belfast, where we recently recorded new guitar parts. This allowed us to create fresh acoustic versions of some of our favorite Thin Lizzy songs, by re-creating those original acoustic elements while incorporating the vocals that Philip recorded on that day, along with the original drum parts that Brian [Downey] came up with during the initial sessions.”
The concept for “Acoustic Sessions” originated from producer and mixer Richard Whittaker, who remixed the 1973 album “Vagabonds of the Western World” for its 50th-anniversary super-deluxe edition in 2023. While reviewing the recordings, he envisioned the possibility of reimagining them in an acoustic format.
“Traditionally, songwriters and bands use acoustic ‘polyrhythmic’ instruments like piano or guitar to demo or sketch their ideas,” Whittaker explained. “Typically, these parts are replaced as the production evolves, but sometimes, these fundamental elements remain intact. I discovered this during the ‘Vagabonds’ project.”
“After going through all the Decca recordings, I compiled a list of ideas. However, most of these required additional development and material. The label team reached out to Eric, who was eager to participate in the project, and together, I believe we’ve created something truly unique and special.”
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