Eagle Rock Entertainment have done a smash up job making sure that the world does not overlook one of the most unique blues/rock talents to ever take the stage. While never popular in America, Rory Gallagher is a true legend of the guitar. His Irish Blues are regarded amongst critics and fans alike as some of the purest, unadulterated and honest musical moments in the genre. Luminaries including Joe Bonamassa have covered his work and his fans include rock royalty such as Alex Lifeson of Rush.

Eagle Rock is re-releasing the entire Rory Gallagher collection on CD. Few titles will gain more excitement or garner more attention than Irish Tour as it shows Gallagher on his home turf at the pinnacle of his career in 1974.

His music ranges from brash (“Cradle Rock”) to acoustic (“As the Crow Flies”) with each style coming from deep inside of his soul. Gallagher classics “Tattoo’d Lady,” “Too Much Alchohol” and “A Million Miles Away” showcase his rock side and he plays amazing lead on each. “I Wonder Who,” “Walk On Hot Coals” and “Back On My Stompin’ Ground (After Hours)” blister from the blues as Rory takes these songs and twists his Irish influence all over them.

This is an iconic live album from a man who was more important in the world of music than history has remembered. Rory was one of a kind and to see his music still being celebrated in 2011 warms this writer’s heart. RIP Rory…