New Name/New Lineup for Thin Lizzy
Band to kick off new year with new image.
Thin Lizzy guitarist Scott Gorham has confirmed that the band will release their album of new music under the title "Black Star Riders". Gorham also stated that original drummer Brian Downey and long-standing keyboardist Darren Wharton won’t remain with the group as they move into the future.
Lizzy said earlier this year that, after having started work on a new record, they’d decided to retire Phil Lynott’s band name.
"As we were writing these new songs, I started to feel uncomfortable" says Gorham "I just felt, ‘This isn’t quite right without Phil...this is a new album by a new band. And I think it’s the right decision.”
Downey has decided not to be part of the Black Star Riders because he doesn’t want to be on the road as frequently; while Wharton wants to concentrate on his AOR band Dare.
Instead, the new outfit will continue with former Megadeth and White Lion drummer Jimmy DeGrasso, and work without a yet-unnamed keyboardist. The band have composed 15 songs, and in January will start recording with producer Kevin Shirley. The album is due for release in May 2013.
But Gorham says it’s not the end of Lizzy. "We have to play Thin Lizzy songs. People will expect it. Lizzy isn’t going to die.”