It was an interesting
experience walking into the Jubilee Auditorium to see Slash featuring Myles
Kennedy and the Conspirators on July 17th. Having been there
many times, it is the first time I have ever been patted down by security at
the doors, the same security that was standing throughout the hall during the
show. Large signs said "No Flash Photography" although non-flash was permitted.
And media photographers were stationed at the back of the room, which didn't
allow for good photos and thus, sadly, none accompany this article.
It was an odd contrast, this tight security and requirements that you would see
from those with more.. unique personalities like Prince or Axl Rose, and the
man on stage. In interviews Slash has always come across as humble, and the same
can be said of his stage presence; he often seemed to pose for photos for those
up front and seemed to be having a great time.
So what does Slash, formerly of Gun's n Roses and Velvet Revolver, bring on a
solo tour? He doesn't sing, so Alter Bridge vocalist Myles Kennedy brought his
impressive vocals to both Slash's new album Apocalyptic Love and the
live concert. Kennedy is awesome, with an incredible range that was highlighted
on album tracks like set opener One Last Thrill, the song Anastasia
and first single Liar. There is a Canadian aspect to the group as well
with former Theory of a Deadman drummer Brent Fitz and former Static in Stereo
and Age of Electric singer/bass player Todd Kerns. Kerns, whose song Remote
Control was a staple of alt-rock in the 90's hasn't really gotten his due
as a performer, so it was great to see him obviously having a blast, and taking
on vocals for Doctor Alibi and GNR cover You're Crazy. Instead of
it seeming like "Slash and some other guys" it really did feel like a team on
stage, with Slash and Kennedy sharing the spotlight.
It seems like an insult when artists disregard their past success when they
leave a band or do a solo project. Although skipping anything from the Use
Your Illusion albums, which is a shame as there is a video of Kennedy
nailing Civil War, the concert featured six Gun's n Roses tracks.
Kennedy is not an Axl Rose immitator, and made the songs his own while still
nailing vocals that Rose himself can't quite hit anymore. Songs like Nighttrain
and Mr. Brownstone received some of the loudest responses from the
crowd. Anyone who grew up listening to GNR undoubtedly got chills when seeing
Slash play on iconic songs Sweet Child O' Mine and set ending Paradise
City. There was even some Velvet Revolver with the track Slither.
It is a treat watching Slash play. That is what people came to see, and
fortunately the Apocalyptic Love material is strong enough to make the
entire concert experience a good one. On the rock n roll bucket list, seeing
Slash live is high on the list, and on July 17th it was crossed off my list.