This album follows closely behind, albeit a year earlier, Gallagher’s 1974 Live in San Diego vinyl album. This latter album was a special Record Store Day release, and its availability was exclusive to vinyl. Its sound quality is nothing short of exceptional, with only two tracks per side and the Side D track, “In Your Town,” being particularly phenomenal.
The album in focus today, “All Around Man Live in London,” hails from the later part of Gallagher’s career, specifically recorded in December 1990. Available as a double CD or triple vinyl album, it unfolds into a three-panel set and boasts fantastic music accompanied by a detailed booklet with a compelling essay and beautiful photographs.
Rory Gallagher has been a significant part of my musical landscape since my younger days, with my introduction to his work in 1972 with “Live in Europe.” Through decades of releases and countless live performances, Rory has been a constant presence, making the arrival of this album in 2023 a delightful surprise.
This album’s emergence might initially spark skepticism – after all, if it was a masterpiece, why wasn’t it released during the endless search for material in the 80s or 90s? However, the spectacular sound quality and Gallagher’s off-the-scale performance will silence any doubts.
Gallagher’s soloing, unique vocals, songwriting style, and particularly his live performances make him stand out as an incredible performer. Despite only being able to hear his brilliance in this album, any fan who saw him live would attest to his vivacity on stage – constantly moving, racing around the stage, and executing Chuck Berry duck walks all while maintaining flawless musical performance.
Furthermore, Gallagher’s work ethic was remarkable. His sets were often extensive – those who saw him live, myself included, might recall anxiously checking our watches, hoping to make it to the pub before last orders. Gallagher was a musical powerhouse, relentlessly delivering stunning performances.
This album hails from the later part of Gallagher’s career, but he was still firing on all cylinders. Songs like “Continental Op,” “Heaven’s Gate,” “Don’t Stop Me Talking,” and “Moon Child” showcase his masterful performance, superb soloing, and intimate playing.
Despite the passage of time and exposure to a multitude of musicians, Gallagher’s uniqueness shines through. He navigated through the changing musical landscape without compromising his roots or authenticity, maintaining his signature check shirt and battered Stratocaster while delivering music that was unmistakably his.
Thanks to Chris Harris and Simon Big Small, both fantastic members of the Now Spinning Magazine Facebook group and avid Rory Gallagher fans, my collection of Gallagher’s work has grown. They both insist that one can never have enough Rory Gallagher in their collection – a sentiment I wholeheartedly agree with.
To those unfamiliar with Rory Gallagher’s work, don’t be daunted. Starting your journey with “All Around Man Live in London” will lead you to the wide-ranging catalog of this incredible artist. This album, currently available as a three LP set for around £50 or as a two CD version for about £12.99, is an excellent introduction to Gallagher’s world.
All Around Man – Live In London’ was recorded from the shows that supported Gallagher’s eleventh, and sadly, last studio album ‘Fresh Evidence’ that was released in May 1990. This album features captivating live versions of tracks from that album as well as songs from the 1987 ‘Defender’ album plus other career favourites.
This new album has been mixed from the recently found multi tracks and mastered at Abbey Road Studios, and the album’s cover is a painting by Irish graffiti artist Vincent Zara who has stencilled Rory’s image across his home country.
Tracklisting:
CD1
Continental Op
Heavens Gate
Don’t Start Me Talkin’
Kid Gloves
Mean Disposition
The Loop
Tattoo’d Lady
The King of Zydeco
Moonchild
Out On The Western Plains
Ride On Red, Ride On
Walkin Blues
Empire State Express
CD2
Shadow Play
I Wonder Who
Shin Kicker
Middle Name
When My Baby She Left Me
Ghost Blues
Messin’ With The Kid
Keep A Knockin’
Bullfrog Blues
All Around Man
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
