Thin Lizzy 1976 Box Set Review – Jailbreak & Johnny the Fox
I’m reviewing the fantastic Thin Lizzy 1976 Box Set, which includes the albums Jailbreak and Johnny the Fox. These two albums marked a high point in Thin Lizzy’s career, both critically and commercially.
Jailbreak, released in 1976, climbed to No. 10 on the UK Albums Chart and spawned the iconic hit “The Boys Are Back in Town,” which reached No. 8 on the UK Singles Chart and became a defining anthem for the band. The follow-up, Johnny the Fox, also released in 1976, continued their success, with standout tracks like “Don’t Believe a Word.”
This box set includes both the original and newly remixed versions of the albums, overseen by guitarist Scott Gorham and mixed by Richard Whittaker. The remixes offer a fresh experience, showcasing parts of the recordings that were previously unheard or unused.
One of the highlights is the Blu-ray, featuring Atmos mixes of both albums, giving listeners a fully immersive experience. There’s also an unreleased live show from Cleveland 1976, adding to the collection’s appeal for fans.
The packaging is top-notch, housed in a 10×10 sturdy box, complete with a hard-backed booklet that includes rare photos, tour posters, and an in-depth essay by Mojo’s Mark Blake. It truly captures the energy of Thin Lizzy in their prime.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering these albums for the first time, this set offers great value, with five CDs and a Blu-ray that bring the classic Thin Lizzy era to life. Make sure to grab it before it disappears from the shelves—it’s an essential piece of rock history.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
