Back in 1979, Irish blues guitarist Rory Gallagher recorded this album. The album never saw an official release and is now being released posthumously. While he loved the songs, Gallagher hated the mix and therefore, he stuck to his guns and prevented the release of the album. It sat in the vaults until last year, when Eagle Rock Entertainment contracted with the Gallagher estate to re-release his entire catalog, including this forgotten gem.

The tunes were remixed from the original tapes, resulting in a sound that is eerily both 1979 and 2011. The job was done with such care, and precision, that Gallagher actually sounds as if he recorded these songs last week. And what songs they are! “Rue the Day,” “B Girl,” “Mississippi Sheiks” and “Wheels Within Wheels” are all among the best the rocking guitarist ever created. It is “Overnight Bag,” that is the highpoint, both musically and creatively on the release. Rory tears up his Fender Strat as he blasts out an energetic riff that resonates deep within the listener’s soul.

To make matters better, Eagle Rock also culled several live tracks from concerts Rory gave in San Fran back in the day. The result is a live performance of many of his classics including “Bullfrog Blues,” “Tattoo’d Lady” and “Calling Card.”

Gallagher was a true champion of the blues, with a bit of love for blistering rock n’ roll guitar solos. His whisky soaked vocals add to the ambiance of his musical vision. This one is a winner.