Jailbreak, Thin Lizzy's sixth studio album, marked a turning point for the Irish hard rock band when it was released on 26 March 1976 by Vertigo Records. This album became their commercial breakthrough in the US, featuring hit singles like "Jailbreak" and "The Boys Are Back in Town", the latter becoming the band’s biggest US success, winning the 1976 NME Award for Best Single.

By the mid-70s, Thin Lizzy faced a critical moment. After the underperformance of their previous albums Nightlife and Fighting, their label, Vertigo Records, gave them one final chance. The band, led by charismatic frontman and songwriter Phil Lynott, retreated to a studio in Buckinghamshire in late 1975 to brainstorm ideas before moving to Ramport Studios in London to record Jailbreak. John Alcock, known for his extensive studio experience, was chosen as producer. However, while the band completed the album swiftly, guitarists Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson expressed dissatisfaction with the rushed process. Both felt it constrained the music's fluidity, with Robertson lamenting the lack of improvisation in his guitar parts.

Formed in 1969, Thin Lizzy was known for their unique fusion of hard rock with Irish folk influences, driven by Lynott’s poetic lyrics. The dual guitar harmonies of Gorham and Robertson became a defining element of their sound. Despite criticism from reviewers like Robert Christgau, who likened the songs to Bruce Springsteen outtakes, others saw the album's strength. AllMusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine called Jailbreak a "truly exceptional album," praising its dynamic energy and Lynott's vivid songwriting.

2024 reissue pressed on 180g orange vinyl, relead via Vinyl Me, Please.

Tracklist: 

Side A