Rory Gallagher is one of those guys that you constantly scratch your head and say what if. Like many of the great ones that pass before their time, you always wonder what they would sound like today. For those of you that aren't aware, Rory Gallagher was a smoking blues rock guitarist, from the 70's, who influenced countless guitarists. Rory was from same mold as Hendrix, but unfortunately didn't make it on the grand scale that Jimi did.
Irish born Gallagher, was a guitar god in his native land of Ireland. He also did really well internationally, but with his career ending so quickly, he never became the household name that he should have. Well that is all about to change, because Eagle Rock Entertainment is in the process of re-issuing Gallagher's catalog, remastered. How cool is that? The re-issues started about a year ago and will keep on coming. The latest item to be restored is the incredible concert film Irish Tour 74'.
Irish Tour 74' is a film documenting Rory's tour around Ireland back in 74'. This film actually played in theaters back in the day, but has just recently, seen it's first release on BluRay. It is an excellent film which contains live footage as well as some behind the scenes. I think one of the things I like most about the film, other than the live performances, were Gallagher's narrations. Gallagher explains what it is like on the road, as well as what it was like touring Ireland at the time. There are lots of cool behind the scenes footage, but my favorite was when he gives the viewer a mini guitar lesson.
This DVD really gives you a sense of what a good person this guys was, as well as what a talented musician he was. And, oh so talented. The film is crystal clear and the audio is spot on. There are a few times that the music gets a little distorted, but not enough to distract you. This was a great view that will stay in the rotation. I challenge you not to buy some of Rory's music after viewing this one, because it will be virtually impossible.
Bottom Line: A great movie to familiarize yourself with one of the better blues players of our time. Not only do you get some killer live footage, but you get to see how things were back in the day. If you dig hard blues guitars then this one is for you.
-Ragman is craving a Guiness.