Thin Lizzy: Andy Gee, Johnny Du Cann, Robbo Robertson, Dave Flett, Eric Bell, Philip Lynott, Scott Gorham, Gary Moore, Brian Downey.

Recording information: 1971 - 1980.

Almost identical to 1991's excellent DEDICATION, Mercury's 2006 hits comp DEFINITIVE COLLECTION offers 16 classic tracks by the beloved Irish hard-rock quartet. While Thin Lizzy's sound contained many of the musical trappings of standard 1970s rock, the band's unique dual-lead-guitar attack; subtly brilliant, melodic songcraft; and inimitable lead-singer/bassist Phil Lynott place them in a league unto themselves.

Sequenced chronologically, the disc kicks off with Thin Lizzy's stirring update of the trad classic "Whiskey in the Jar," and includes scruffy, hook-laden rockers like the "Cowboy Song," "Jailbreak," and "Bad Reputation," as well as stylistically varied tracks like the Springsteen-esque groover "Dancing In The Moonlight (It's Caught Me In It's Spotlight)" and a rousing live take on "Rosalie." Thin Lizzy wore their hearts on their collective sleeves, and while DEFINITIVE COLLECTION forsakes some of Lynott's gentler, more heartfelt moments in favor of the rockers, it's still a nice introduction to the band and a pleasing mix of hits for long-time fans. Raise a glass.