Joe Bonamassa – The Spirit Of Rory Live From Cork (2LP Red)

The Spirit of Rory – Live From Cork sees Joe Bonamassa paying heartfelt tribute to one of his greatest inspirations, Rory Gallagher. Recorded live in 2025 in Cork – Gallagher’s hometown – the album captures Bonamassa and his band celebrating the raw, electrifying blues-rock legacy of the Irish guitar legend in front of a passionate crowd of devoted fans. The performance blends faithful renditions of Gallagher classics with Bonamassa’s own fiery guitar style, creating a powerful homage that honors the spirit, soul, and enduring influence of one of blues-rock’s most revered musicians.

Bonamassa says. “The crowds on those three nights were rowdy, raucous and Cork did their favorite son proud.” The result is a live document that feels charged by that setting – deeply felt, high-wire, and rooted in the connection between artist, audience, and place.

Across 14 handpicked songs, The Spirit Of Rory Live From Cork moves through the many sides of Gallagher’s catalog – from the blistering attack of “Walk On Hot Coals” and “Bullfrog Blues” to the emotional sweep of “A Million Miles Away,” which will serve as the album’s focus track upon release. Other highlights include “Tattoo’d Lady,” “Bad Penny,” “I Fall Apart,” “Calling Card,” and “Cradle Rock,” each delivered with fire and conviction while honoring the shape and soul of the originals.

The release also captures several moments that carried special meaning across the Cork run, including Bonamassa’s performance of “As The Crow Flies” on Gallagher’s own 1930 National Triolian resonator guitar, loaned by the Cork Public Museum. It was a tangible connection to the artist whose presence still looms so large over the city and over generations of guitar players who followed him.

Track List

Disk 1
Side 1
1. Cradle Rock
2. Walk On Hot Coals
3. Tattoo’d Lady
4. I Wonder Who

Side 2
1. Calling Card
2. Who’s That Coming?
3. Messin’ With The Kid
4. Bullfrog Blues

Disc 2
Side 1
1. Treat Her Right
2. Bad Penny
3. I Fall Apart

Side 2
1. A Million Miles Away
2. As The Crow Flies
3. Back On My Stompin’ Ground