Gary Moore & The Midnight Blues Band - Live At Montreux 1990

It was a crisp summer evening in July 1990, and the picturesque Swiss town of Montreux was bathed in a warm, golden light as the iconic Montreux Jazz Festival came to life. The town's scenic lakefront was abuzz with music fans from all over the world, each eager to experience the magic of some of the world's greatest musicians. Among them was none other than the incomparable guitarist Gary Moore, who was set to headline the festival with his Midnight Blues Band. Gary Moore was already a legendary figure in the music world, renowned for his blistering guitar work, soulful vocals, and eclectic blend of rock, blues, and folk influences. With a career spanning over two decades, Moore had established himself as a true innovator, pushing the boundaries of rock and blues guitar playing. His band, the Midnight Blues Band, was a tightly-knit ensemble of seasoned musicians, each sharing Moore's passion for the blues. As the festival gates swung open, the air was electric with anticipation. The crowd was a diverse mix of blues enthusiasts, music aficionados, and fans of Moore's earlier work with Thin Lizzy. They had all come to witness the master in action, and they were not disappointed. Gary Moore took to the stage at the famous Stravinski Auditorium, a beautifully restored art deco theatre nestled in the heart of the festival grounds. With a confident smile, he launched into the opening chords of the first song, a classic blues number that set the tone for the rest of the evening. The crowd was immediately entranced, drawn into the hypnotic world of Moore's music. As the night wore on, Moore and his band delivered a blistering set that showcased their mastery of the blues. From the opening bars of "The Blues Is Deep" to the final notes of "Too Tired," the Midnight Blues Band tore through a varied setlist that featured a range of blues standards, rockers, and original compositions. One of the highlights of the evening came when Moore welcomed special guest Albert Collins to the stage. A blues legend in his own right, Collins had been a major influence on Moore's own playing style, and their collaboration was eagerly anticipated by the crowd. Together, the two guitarists tore into a blistering version of "Ice Pickin'," their notes intertwining in a dazzling display of virtuosity. The crowd was on its feet, cheering and whistling as the two blues masters traded licks and solos. Throughout the evening, Moore's guitar work was simply breathtaking. His unique blend of blues, rock, and Irish folk influences was on full display, as he effortlessly switched between the clean, crisp tones of his Stratocaster and the warm, overdriven sounds of his Les Paul. His playing was a masterclass in dynamics, texture, and tone, and the crowd was captivated by his every move. As the night drew to a close, Moore and his band delivered a series of encores that left the crowd breathless. From the frenetic "Cold, Cold, Cold" to the soulful ballad "Midnight Blue," each song was a testament to the band's skill and Moore's genius as a musician. As the festival came to a close, the audience filed out of the Stravinski Auditorium, each one buzzing with excitement and admiration for Gary Moore and his Midnight Blues Band. It had been a truly unforgettable night of music, one that would be remembered for years to come as a highlight of the Montreux Jazz Festival. And for Gary Moore, it was a night that would cement his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, a true master of the blues.