Thin Lizzy – Chinatown VG+/VG+

“Chinatown” is an album by the Irish rock band Thin Lizzy, known for its distinctive blend of hard rock, folk, and blues influences. Released on October 10, 1980, the album showcases the band’s evolution and experimentation with new sounds, while still retaining the core elements of their classic rock style.

As Thin Lizzy’s tenth studio album, “Chinatown” features the charismatic and soulful voice of Phil Lynott, the band’s frontman and primary songwriter. Lynott’s storytelling prowess is evident in the album’s lyrical themes, which range from personal struggles to vivid narratives. The album’s sound is marked by the guitar interplay, a signature element of Thin Lizzy’s music, with Scott Gorham’s melodic leads and the addition of Snowy White as the new guitarist, following the departure of Gary Moore.

The title track, “Chinatown,” stands out with its gritty riffs and evocative lyrics, capturing the vibrancy and edginess of its namesake neighborhood. Other notable tracks include “Killer on the Loose,” which features a catchy, hard-hitting chorus and became one of the album’s singles, and “Genocide (The Killing of the Buffalo),” a song that highlights Lynott’s songwriting depth and social consciousness.