Louder has reviewed a newly expanded deluxe edition of Thin Lizzy's 1971 self-titled debut album, using the release as an occasion to revisit the band's early days. The original record, made for Decca after the trio relocated from Ireland to London, sold poorly and drew little notice at the time, but the review argues it offers an early glimpse of the talents — Phil Lynott's distinctive voice and poetic writing, alongside guitarist Eric Bell and drummer Brian Downey — that would later make the group famous.

The article recalls how Lynott approached DJ John Peel on an Irish Sea ferry in early 1971, leading to BBC radio sessions that now feature on the reissue. It highlights tracks such as The Friendly Ranger At Clontarf Castle, Honesty Is No Excuse, Clifton Grange Hotel and the atmospheric Eire, and notes the project was steered by fellow Dubliner Ted Carroll. The three-CD/four-LP set includes new stereo mixes by Richard Whittaker, the debut single The Farmer, the New Day EP, the previously unreleased Beggar's Song, BBC sessions, instrumental outtakes and an illustrated book of early memorabilia.