Ricky Warwick – Live @ Pie & Vinyl, Southsea 2023
Officially this wasn’t a Ricky Warwick solo gig, but part of an acoustic instore tour promoting the new Black Star Riders album “Wrong Side of Paradise”. Which, incidentally entered the UK album charts straight in at number 6 in the top 10.
However, for many of us, Ricky Warwick (also ex-The Almighty frontman) is far more than just the man out celebrating the release of Black Star Riders’ 5th studio release. After all, the band themselves came about as having toured together as a latter-day incarnation of Thin Lizzy. Whereby having also featured alongside Lizzy guitarist Scott Gorham, Ricky had to win over fans as an alternative to fellow Northern Irishman, the great Phil Lynott (RIP).
That in itself is no easy task and although there wasn’t any “Boys are Back in Town” and such like this afternoon, it’s clear how much Thin Lizzy has influenced the band. Yet, for some of us, it was also about secretly celebrating a career pre-BSR. The Almighty were a big part of my teenage years, along with a rather memorable gig as (sic) and following various solo performances, Ricky Warwick has been a staple on my stereo ever since.
However, when it comes to Black Star Riders, “Wrong Side of Paradise” is probably their strongest release yet. As this afternoon would showcase, the new songs very much stand up on their own merit, especially when it comes to the stripped-back acoustic vibe.
Whether that’s the album’s opener or the likes of “Better Than Saturday Night” (in part written about his own daughter taking his beloved mustang car for a joyride). This is a band that’s clearly proven they’re more than a press release that’s focused on their connection to Thin Lizzy.
Black Star Riders – Wrong Side of Paradise (Out Now)
There was also a sense of occasion in the shop today. Even though most in-store events taking place at Pie & Vinyl are understandably about plugging new material, it’s also a chance to truly connect with the fans. Although I must admit, I hadn’t quite been expecting the Almighty’s classic “Wild and Wonderful” or Ricky’s storming run-through of “Ace of Spades”.
The former also came with some massive hints of an Almighty re-union…but for now, you can still go out and catch Black Star Riders on their upcoming UK tour throughout this month. Taking place in February with support from Michael Munroe, as well as Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons.
As for today’s venue – “All record stores should be as cool as this” Ricky Warwick exclaimed… and while I may be slightly biased, he’s certainly got a point.
Order “Wrong Side of Paradise” via Pie & Vinyl, Southsea, online here.
