Eric Bell, the legend, the concert

I live near the Diamond Rock Club in Ahoghill, County Antrim, a fantastic venue that puts on a wide selection of musicians throughout the year.

Last weekend I had the great pleasure of seeing Eric Bell, one of my favourite guitarists, for the first time.

He co-founded Thin Lizzy with Phil Lynott in 1969 and wrote some legendary songs and guitar parts on their first 3 albums, including the opening riff to their version of the traditional Irish song "Whiskey in the Jar".

I really enjoyed the concert, which was the Eric Bell Trio. His trademark dynamic playing style on that old strat was demonstrated to the full.

I had the privilege of chatting to him after the set; he said his performances are all about self-expression these days.

That came through in abundance throughout the concert. He's uncompromising in what he plays - it's what he wants to play, right at that moment. If you go to his concert expecting to hear big hits from his time with Thin Lizzy (Whiskey in the Jar, The Rocker etc.) you may leave disappointed unless he happens to feel like playing it that night. What you will hear is a variety of classic blues, tasty celtic guitar lines, and his solo songs.

I regularly listen to his last two solo albums Exile (2015), and Standing at a Bus Stop (2017). And his 5-CD box set "Remembering - Anthology", which serves to demonstrate his wide repertoire.

Some quick snaps taken at the concert with my wee iPhone:

I will definitely see him again if I get the chance.

👉 You can catch him on tour in the coming weeks in Hull, Preston, Barnoldswick, London, and Birmingham. Tickets available here.