Thin Lizzy's "Southbound" from 'Live and Dangerous': Guitar Lesson

Introduction

"Southbound," a track from Thin Lizzy's 1978 live album 'Live and Dangerous', is a masterclass in melding hard rock and blues influences with impeccable guitar work. This song was originally released in the studio album "Bad Reputation" but it's the live version that has garnered a lot of attention. On lead guitar, we have Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson, two players with distinct styles that synergise remarkably well to give Thin Lizzy its characteristic dual-guitar sound. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track.

The Chords

The song is primarily in the key of D major and employs a simple yet effective chord progression that serves as a canvas for some imaginative guitar work. The main chords are:

• Verse: D - G - A - D
• Chorus: D - G - A

The simplicity of the chord progression allows for lots of improvisation, especially in the solos and fills.

The Scales

For soloing, both Robertson and Gorham lean on the D major scale and its bluesy cousin, the D minor pentatonic. There are also instances where you'll hear Mixolydian licks, especially when accentuating dominant chords like the A7.

Solo Analysis

Let's dive into the guitar solos. Both Robertson and Gorham bring their own flavours to the table, which gives the song its unique dynamic.

Scott Gorham

Scott Gorham's parts often draw from major pentatonic licks, providing a brighter, more melodic feel. His vibrato is meticulous, allowing long-held notes to shimmer.

Brian Robertson

Brian Robertson, on the other hand, leans more into the blues scale, sprinkling in minor thirds and flat sevenths. His choice of bending techniques, especially unison bends, adds a fuller, more emotional texture to the solo sections.

Both guitarists switch seamlessly between the D major scale and the D minor pentatonic, giving the solos a rich, dynamic feel. Whether they are playing in harmony, counterpoint, or call-and-response, they maintain a cohesiveness that adds layers of depth to the song.

Lead Guitarists and Their Playing

Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson are a classic example of the magic that can happen when two lead guitarists with different styles play together. Gorham's clean, melodic lines are a great foil to Robertson's aggressive, bluesier approach. In "Southbound," their contrasting styles are evident but they work synergistically to elevate the track. It's like watching a fascinating dialogue unfold, but with guitars.

Techniques Used

Here's a list of guitar techniques that can be heard in this song:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Harmonics
• Chord Progressions
• Arpeggios
• Hammer-Ons
• Double Stops
• Slides
• String Bending
• Sustain
• Dual Guitar Harmonies

Conclusion

"Southbound" serves as a quintessential example of the prowess and chemistry between Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson. It is a song rich in melodic content, technical diversity, and emotional expression. The lead work is a case study in how two different guitar styles can come together to create a musical experience greater than the sum of its parts. From the chordal backdrop to the intricate solos and fills, "Southbound" offers endless lessons for aspiring guitarists.