Massive – Destination Somewhere

Posted on April 8, 2016 by coralmccallum

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One of my favourite albums from 2014 was Full Throttle by Aussie rock band Massive. As a debut album it was sensational. But how do you follow such an impressive start?

The answer’s easy- you tour, you write, you enjoy a beer or two, you play till you bleed, you get back in the studio and you do it all again….only better! And that’s what these road dogs have done.

Massive’s second studio album, Destination Somewhere, is released on 22 April on Earache Records. Hailing from Melbourne, for those of you who aren’t familiar with these boys yet, Massive are Brad Marr on lead vocals and guitar, Aidan McGarrigle on bass and backing vocals and Jarrod Medwin on drums and backing vocals. There’s been one change in the band’s line up since 2014 with the band’s original guitarist being replaced by Brendan Forward. It’s a dynamic combination of talent!

Destination Somewhere opens with One For The Road. Gentle hi hats then BANG! Riff heavy, with searing vocals and a strong chorus, this is an awesome start to this ten track record and an instant reminder of just how good these boys are. “There’s a new day coming. A chaos about to ignite.”

Don’t say you weren’t warned, folks!

There’s an air of maturity to this album that demonstrates just how far Massive have come in the past two years. Full Throttle was just that – pedal to the metal, good, sleazy RnFnR all the way but this one is more controlled, almost delicate in places.

There’s not a bad track on here. Each and every one brings something different to the table – or should that be bar, boys?

Second track is Blood Money Blues although once you get past the outstanding vintage blues intro, there’s not much blues to this track. The cow bells are back!  Perhaps a hint of an SMKC influence to these? One of my favourite tracks from the record. Fabulous guitar solo. Awesome vocals. Can’t wait to hear this live! (Hint! Hint!)

The longest track on the album is Sinking Ship. Loosely based around a miserable but memorable trip to Tasmania, this one brings another dimension to the album. Was that a little country vibe about 30 seconds in? I think it was. Brilliant!

Track four, The Fall, is perhaps the heaviest song on here. Soaring riff. Huge chorus. Instantly head bobbing. Adore the timbre to Brad’s vocal on the slower sections and the tone of Aidan’s bass is sweet. Dark and sleazy rock at its finest.

Perhaps the most radio friendly track on Destination Somewhere is Made of Stone. Brad Marr describes this as “our movie soundtrack song off the album. It’s not a ballad but it’s definitely more cruising than the others.” Think Days of Thunder, Tom Cruise and long open highways at sunset. Epic song!

Title track Destination Somewhere sums this band up. These guys cover more miles than you could ever dream possible, practically living in their van. Jarrod Medwin declares that this song has “probably my favourite chorus ever in Massive.” He also confessed to a little studio trickery, having recorded a double drum track for the intro. We’ll forgive him. This is a real feel good rock anthem. Another classic track.

The Way Its Always Been has a honky tonk bar feel to it. Love the effect used on the vocal track on this one. And is that more than a hint of blues here, guys? Great song and another great chorus.

Beaten Dog brings proceedings to a close. Love the mournful guitar intro with the subtle acoustic track over it. Filled with raw emotion, this is my personal favourite on the record. (well, for today it is because I love them all) The guitar solo two minutes in is stunning – mournful, depressed but not wailing. Beautifully executed. “Even a beaten dog gonna have its day.”

There’s nothing beaten about these Aussie boys. Destination Somewhere is a fantastic rock album and deserves to be regarded as one of THE releases of 2016.

It may be titled Destination Somewhere but these hardworking rockers deserve to destined for the very top. Hopefully all their hard work and dedication will pay dividends and see Massive being massive worldwide in 2016.

 

 

10/10

 

Thanks to Dan H from Earache for the promo copy.

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Brian Fallon & the Crowes – no Painkillers required for this show!

Posted on April 7, 2016 by coralmccallum

Normality finally resumed on Wednesday night as I boarded the 5.25 train to Glasgow, accompanied by my two teenage chaperones, Boy Child and friend.

We were heading to my favourite venue too!

Yes, we were off to the city’s O2 ABC to see Brian Fallon and the Crowes.

(For those of you going “who?”, Brian Fallon is the front man of New Jersey rock band The Gaslight Anthem who are currently on an indefinite hiatus…was it something we said when we saw them at the O2 Academy last summer?)

I’d bought the tickets to this O2 ABC show months ago, long before Brian Fallon released his solo album, Painkillers. I took the gamble that the genre wouldn’t vary dramatically from his other projects. The gamble paid off (to be honest I was pretty sure it would) as Painkillers emerged as a fantastic rootsy rock album last month.

First on stage was Jared Hart. A familiar looking face and a familiar voice? Yes, it was. He was the front man with The Scandals, a fellow New Jersey band, who had supported The Gaslight Anthem last year. Alone on stage ,with his acoustic guitars, he delivered a solid six song support set. As he performed, the room was slowly filling up, but Jared engaged expertly with the Scottish crowd. Personally, I love the gravel in his voice so he’d won me over right from the start. Definitely a man to watch out for!

Next up were Good Old War, a duo from Philadelphia. I’m kind of at a loss as to how to describe these guys. Do you remember the TV show The Wonder Years? Do you recall Kevin’s geeky friend Paul? Yes? Well, that’s my best description of the singer with Good Old War. This duo played a blessedly short eight song set. To listen to, they were a poor man’s Everly Brothers. I’m sorry, they missed the mark entirely for me. The Glasgow crowd were gentle with them – something the duo should be thankful for – and they’ve lived to harmonise another day.

As the smoke swirled on stage, the lights dimmed then bright spotlights sent beams of light onto the stage as Brian Fallon and the Crowes stepped out to rapturous cheers, opening their ninety minute set with Smoke. Instantly the passionate crowd were on side and singing along in fine voice. The moment and the warmth of the welcome wasn’t lost on Mr Fallon who was grinning from ear to ear.

There were five Crowes out on stage with him who included a couple of members of The Gaslight Anthem plus Jared Hart (remember him?) on acoustic guitar and backing vocals.

The entire set was interspersed with some relaxed banter between Messrs Fallon and Hart, some of which was highly entertaining in itself.

Most of the songs on the setlist were from Brian Fallon’s Painkillers album with a few Horrible Crowes and Molly and the Zombie numbers thrown in.

A highlight of the night, but perhaps a bit of a gamble in front of a Scottish crowd, was a fabulous rendition of Billy Bragg’s New England. Brilliant song!

Mid-set Brian switched from his well-worn Telecaster to a Martin acoustic. A delicate keyboard intro from Alex Rosamilia tipped the audience off as to what was coming next. It was the beautiful ballad Honey Magnolia. Simply stunning.

After a brief chat about literature with the audience and Jared Hart and more than a few laughs at the expense of Harry Potter, Brian Fallon played one of my favourite songs from Painkillers, Steve McQueen. The audience was in fine voice as they sang along to this incredible song. Magical moment.

Glasgow was also treated to a premiere performance of Mojo Hand. (A mojo hand originates from African American hoodoo and is a spell or a prayer in a bag) Now this song was THE highlight of the night for me. I love it! Seeing the band play this and have as much fun as the audience were having made it all the more special. I adore Brian Fallon’s vocal on this one. That extra spoonful of husky gravel is sheer brilliance.

In true Brian Fallon fashion, he declared towards the latter end of the set that there would be no encore. He doesn’t see the sense in the pretence of ending things only to come back out to play two or three songs that you knew you were intending to play right from the start. And you know, I have to agree with him.

The last few numbers were a little harder, a little heavier and more lively than the bulk of the set and these boys went out in a blaze of glory. Mary Ann, a Molly and the Zombie song, almost raised the roof off the room.

Then, one song later, it was all over with a swift goodbye.

The Crowes had flown.

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Black Stone Cherry- Kentucky

Posted on April 5, 2016 by coralmccallum

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For their fifth studio album Black Stone Cherry have stripped off the “commercial cloak” and returned to what they do best – dirty, grungy, riff heavy swamp rock with their own unique Southern stamp of authority.

They returned to their roots and went back into the same studio where they recorded their debut album Black Stone Cherry almost ten years ago. Released on the Mascot label, this record was produced by the band themselves and engineered by long standing friend Dave Barrick and, hey presto, Black Stone Cherry are back where they belong.

This album runs to some thirteen tracks and there’s not a bad or a weak one among them.

Kentucky opens with The Way Of The Future. Fuzz laden from the off with a seriously strong riff. Instantly heads start to nod. This one’s dirty, hard and heavy. As the lyrics say “Take back control. Fight for your soul.” Yeah! The “real” Black Stone Cherry are back in the Practice House.

Single, In Our Dreams, is up next. With an edge of darkness to it, this energetic track is another classic tale from Black Stone Cherry. Live this is one monster of a song!

Shakin’ My Cage spins a dark Gothic magic over proceedings. If you liked The Ghost of Floyd Collins then you’ll love this one. Deep Southern swamp rock at its finest.

Soul Machine sees a different approach for the boys. Still hard and riff heavy, the addition of a horn section and some female soul backing singers is inspired. Its Southern rock meets The Blues Brothers. Brilliant!

Kentucky see Black Stone Cherry cover Edwin Starr’s Motown classic, War. When I saw this on the track list, I had my doubts. I was 100% wrong. This may be a Motown classic but it’s had a good ole Kentucky Black Stone Cherry trademark stomped on it.

Hangman is sure to prove to be a fan favourite when it hits the stage on tour. With a killer grunge riff and strong anthemic chorus, this one will be awesome live! “Sometimes I wonder what’s it going to take to end all this suffering.”

No one’s suffering listening to Kentucky!

The album closes with the stunningly beautiful The Rambler. This is a heartfelt ballad telling the story of a ramblin’ man’s regrets at not always being there for his family. Jasin Todd, formerly of Shinedown, brought this song to the boys and, with a few tweaks, they’ve made it their own. It’s got some of my favourite lines in it. Chris’ emotional, straight from the heart, vocal creates the imagery to perfection as he proclaims, “I played a pretty Southern girl right out of her dress.” I’ve had the pleasure of hearing this one played live and it was one of the highlights of the set. A goosebumps moment. And yes, I do – “turn the radio up when your heart breaks down.”

Black Stone Cherry’s hearts are in Kentucky, their families and their souls are in Kentucky so there was only really ever one choice for the title of this album. True Black Stone Cherry fans are right in the heart of Kentucky with them.

 

10/10

 

But wait….there’s more for those fans of vinyl among you.  I bought this record on both CD and vinyl- yes, I’m a bit old school and proud of it. The vinyl came with a free digital download code that revealed two hidden treasures in the way of bonus tracks – I Am The Lion and Evil.

I Am The Lion is a solid, hard, head banging track but is perhaps more akin to the commercial vibe of Magic Mountain.

Evil on the other hand is a hidden gem. There’s strong Led Zeppelin influences to the opening section, even in Chris’ vocal. A stunning guitar solo is followed by a change of vibe. Suddenly it’s a step back to the 1950’s rock’n’roll of Chuck Berry with a healthy dose of Southern charm. There’s nothing Evil about this one. It’s pure genius and pleasure to hear these boys from Kentucky having so much fun.

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 (credits to the owners of the images used -sourced via Google)

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Brian Fallon – Painkillers

Posted on March 14, 2016 by coralmccallum

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Released on Island Records on 11 March, Painkillers is the debut solo record from Brian Fallon, better known as the voice behind The Gaslight Anthem.

When The Gaslight Anthem announced their indefinite hiatus mid-2015, I was decidedly disappointed. I’d recently seen them play a fantastic show at Glasgow’s O2 Academy and was gutted that this appeared to be over for the foreseeable future.

A couple of months later, Brian Fallon announced a series of Spring 2016 solo shows and I jumped at the chance to grab tickets….then began to have a mild panic. What if his solo show was going to take him off on a musical tangent!

I waited for the release of Painkillers with bated breath.

I needn’t have worried.

This solo album brings out the best of Brian Fallon from the song writing to that trademark gravelly voice. It’s the perfect mix of heartland rock, folk rock, Americana rock – badge it however you like!

It’s often been said that bands or artists from New Jersey are permanently in the shadow of The Boss. This album sees Brian Fallon take a huge step forward into the sunlight and create his own shadow.

Running to twelve tracks, painkillers opens with A Wonderful Life. This was the first single to be released from the album back in Dec 2015 and sees Brian stamp his mark from the off with more than a hint of Springsteen.

Title track Painkillers is up next and echoes of Tom Petty influences. (Has Brian deliberately done this to lay old ghosts to rest?) Painkillers is a beautifully written track, like all the others, and spins its tale effortlessly to the listener through its story time lyrics.

This whole record is a masterpiece of lyrical storytelling. Every track has echoes of the past or dreams of the future and is filled with emotions and nostalgia.

In all honesty, there’s not a weak track among them.

Personal highlights for me are Steve McQueen and Mojo Hand.

Steve McQueen’s beautiful acoustic guitar intro instantly transported me to a warm summer evening, sitting on the porch listening to the cicadas while this is played from the comfort of the rocking chair in the corner. It’s a song bursting with memories and dreams. For those of a certain age, who didn’t want to be Steve McQueen while they were growing up? Gorgeous song! I can’t wait to hear this one played live. It’s bound to be a goosebumps moment.

Mojo Hand is a total contrast in style. It’s very quirky. Its catchy and upbeat with a hint of 1960’s chaos to it. It reeks of Bob Dylan! It’s bound to be an audience singalong favourite if it makes the set list (hint! Hint!) I absolutely love it!

Brian Fallon had a hard act to follow after five The Gaslight Anthem records plus his album with The Horrible Crowes. He has more than risen to the challenge with Painkillers. I’ve read that to some this record feels like an extension of the critically acclaimed Get Hurt but I disagree entirely.

Painkillers sees Brian Fallon showcase himself as a songwriter and a solo artist. He has stepped out of the shadow of The Gaslight Anthem with a maturity and self-confidence to take on not only New Jersey’s finest but to take on the world!

I’m now impatiently counting the days until his solo show at Glasgow’s O2 ABC on 6 April. It’s bound to be a night to remember.

10/10

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Theory of a Deadman – my first O2 ABC show of 2016

Posted on March 1, 2016 by coralmccallum

Last Sunday saw me boarding the train to Glasgow as I headed off to the O2 ABC for my first visit of the year.

I was heading into the city to catch up with a good friend for an early dinner (it was the 3:25 instead of the 5:25) before introducing her to the delights of the O2 ABC and its giant glitter ball.

Suitably satiated by pizza and a caffeine hit, we arrived at the venue- have I said how much I love this venue? – to find a healthy queue forming.

After a blessedly brief wait in the decidedly chilly February evening air, we headed inside and upstairs.

And the reason for this pilgrimage?

Theory of a Deadman were back in town!

First on stage for the evening were Forever Never, a five-piece band from Essex. In front of a small luke warm (blame the cold weather outside) crowd, they played a solid half hour opening set. There’s a certain charisma to their front man, Renny Carroll. A bit of a Jack the Lad. A bit of a likeable rogue. Plenty patter!

Highlight of their set for me was Speak Up where Renny succeeded in getting the crowd to participate and sing along. No mean feat for an opening act. Definitely a band to keep a watchful eye on.

Next up were Royal Republic. They exploded onto the stage in a manic frenzy of punk rock chaos in suits. My friend and I turned to face each other and exchanged glances that clearly said, “WTF?”

These four guys from Malmo, Sweden proved to be highly entertaining over the next forty five minutes. Their front man was oozing energy and covered a lot of ground on stage but that beautifully quiffed hair never moved out of place despite his frenetic gyrations.

Definitely a band to watch out for in future. (They are playing at Download this summer for those of you heading that direction – check them out)

One of the stand out moments of their set was the laid back drumming style adopted by Per Andreasson. He was casually sitting back, feet up on the top of his bass drum, legs crossed and keeping perfect time on the drums either side of him. Brilliant!

Musical stand out tracks were Weekend Man and Tommy Gun.

A hugely energetic band that had the growing crowd relaxed and in good humour by the end of their set and ready to rock it out with the Canadian headliners.

At nine o’clock Theory of a Deadman’s Blame Canada intro tape blared out across the now almost full venue, the drum beat began and the Canadians launched into their ninety minute set with Lowlife. This is possibly my favourite Theory of a Deadman song so it was the perfect start for me and, judging by the fans reaction around me, for many others too. Loved it!

Tyler Connolly informed the fans a few moments later that they would be playing songs from all their albums and that’s pretty much what they did.

This was the third time I’d seen these boys play live and the second time seeing them headline a show. The last time was in April 2015 when they had headlined a sell out show at the O2 ABC. Initially tonight there seemed to be something missing. That wee spark wasn’t there for the first half hour or so but by mid-set they seemed to have found their mojo again.

Joe Dandeneau delivered a stunning drum solo amid a blaze of lights. Awesome stuff!

Fan favourites peppered the set. One of the most popular with the crowd was the beautiful Santa Monica although for my personal taste they dragged this one out just a tad too long at the start. It was followed by another of my personal favourites, Angel.  Love this one and the only thing that could have made it even more special would have been if they had played the acoustic version. Next time, boys, please? Hint! Hint!

Blow and Panic Room both from their current album Savages were firm favourites with the crowd. Panic Room  in particular generated the energetic high of the night from the audience.

Hate My Life rounded off the main body of the set. The Glasgow choir were in fine voice for this one and sang along to every word. Another lyrically fabulous song!

When they returned for their encore Theory of a Deadman treated the fans to a taste of Sweet Home Alabama..or was it Sweet Home Glasgow ( as Tyler redeemed himself for an earlier faux pas when he referred to the audience as English…tut tut) and a rendition of Paradise City ( not quite GnR or Slash but I’ll forgive them) before ending the evening with Bad Girlfriend.

With promises to return with a new record and a new tour, Theory of a Deadman bade us all good night.

I, for one, will certainly be back! Hurry back, boys!

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The Last Ride at the Carnival of Madness 2016

Posted on February 11, 2016 by coralmccallum

 

 

Last Saturday, accompanied by Girl Child, I headed south to Manchester  for the final UK Carnival of Madness show.

This was our first trip to the Manchester Arena. For those of you who haven’t been there – it’s HUGE!!! First time too that I’ve entered an arena via a railway station.

Manchester were a bit smarter than the SSE Hydro had been earlier in the week and opened the doors at 5pm. Plenty of time to invest in merchandise (yes, we invested heavily) and visit the little girl’s room etc before heading into the hall.

Girl Child and I found a suitable spot about three rows off the rail at the right hand side as you look up at the stage. Perfect view.

Highly Suspect were first onstage at 6.15. I’d missed the start of their set in Glasgow and was keen to hear the full thing. The boys from New York were definitely better received in Manchester but their set still missed the mark for me. Lydia, their single, was the highlight for me and they rounded off their half hour slot with Claudeland and a snatch of new material. These guys need to mature a bit for a venue of that size. I’d like to see them headline a smaller show. And, Johnny Stevens, STOP spitting on stage please. It’s disgusting!!!

After an interval, Halestorm stormed the stage. No sound problems here tonight. Lzzy was on fire from the off.

Their set started with Apocalyptic, Love Bites(So Do I) and Amen. What a powerful opening to their set.

Mid-set, Black Stone Cherry played a prank on them and set up a meet and greet in the middle of the stage. (And was that Zach Myers in the thick of it?) Good fun for the final show of the UK run. John Fred Young and Ryan Meyer, drummer with Highly Suspect,  “assisted” Arejay Hale with his drum solo. Brilliant!

Halestorm brought their all too short set to a close with Mayhem, Freak Like Me and I Miss The Misery.

I miss Halestorm already!

Again the audience were tortured by Shinedown’s meditation tape while the stage was prepared. Really, guys? Why? It killed the energy and destroyed the vibe Lzzy and the boys worked their assess off to create.

Shinedown opened their set with Black Cadillac from their latest album Threat To Survival. Awesome set opener. It was followed by Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay, Boom-Lay, Boom) and, one of my highlights of the night, Second Chance.

As ever, in my humble opinion, Brent Smith had a little too much to say for himself. Perhaps the additional chat is OK when you have the luxury of a two hour set but it’s too much for an short forty five minute support slot. And as for wasting time wandering through the hall…. Save it for a headline show. (If they’d skipped this and talked less the fans could have enjoyed at least one more song)

The Manchester rock fans got a special treat from Brent Smith and Zach Myers. Before they began to play the incredible Simple Man they belted out, local band, Oasis’ Don’t Look Back In Anger.

Shinedown closed their magnificent set with Sound of Madness.

Shortly before 9.30 Black Stone Cherry exploded onto the stage amid a blaze of lights and air cannon jets as they powered their way through Me And Mary Jane. This was promptly followed up with Rain Wizard – awesome song- and Blind Man – another equally awesome song. What a spectacular opening to their set!

In My Blood and Soul Creek were equally incredible.

There’s a new found energy and vibe with these boys this tour. Not sure its right to badge it as confidence as that’s something none of them are lacking in. Maybe it’s a mature self-assuredness. Maybe it’s self-belief. Believe it- those fans adore you all!

Unfortunately, after a thunderous rendition of Holding On To Letting Go, my evening took a downward spiral. My Girl Child collapsed and all thoughts of music disappeared until I got her some help and was sure she was ok.

Rock Mum vanished and Mum was back in charge.

The arena staff, who assisted me with her, were all very polite, friendly and helpful but I firmly believe the whole incident could’ve been prevented if the staff had passed cups of water back into the crowd.

Manchester, you could learn A LOT here from your Scottish colleagues at the SSE Hydro.

By the time Girl Child took unwell, we’d been standing in the arena for four and a half hours. Not once had any water been offered to anyone other than a handful of fans lucky enough to be right on the rail. Several folk had gone passed us over the course of the night looking decidedly fatigued.

This was the first arena show I’ve been at where water wasn’t passed out to the fans.

Poor show, Manchester!

In the distance, as I tried to revive Girl Child with some Coke and a Mars bar, I could hear Things My Father Said and The Rambler.

As we crossed the arena with a member of the security staff a short while later, heading for the first aid room, Black Stone Cherry and Lzzy were singing Peace Is Free (Pizza’s Free I believe, according to YouTube footage I saw later).

We left the building to return to our hotel to the strains of White Trash Millionaire. Girl Child loves that one.

Our evening had been somewhat “trashed” but I’m glad to say that Girl Child was fully recovered by the morning.

It just proved to me how quickly an incredible night can take a turn for the worse.

I guess we can only Blame It On The Boom Boom!

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The Carnival of Madness kicks off 2016

Posted on February 3, 2016 by coralmccallum

 

 

 

My 2016 gig season kicked off on 1st February in Glasgow’s SSE Hydro arena.

The event? The first Carnival of Madness show in Scotland with a stunning four band line up – Highly Suspect, Halestorm, Shinedown and Black Stone Cherry.

It’s not too often you get the chance to see three of your favourite bands all on the one stage on the one night!

Only minor criticism of the event- doors could’ve, and probably should’ve, opened earlier. They opened at 6pm prompt but Highly Suspect took to the stage at 6.15pm sharp. There just wasn’t enough time to get the folk who had queued outside into the bowl on time to hear them.

We were queuing outside for a while and got in there as smartly as we could, but still missed the first two songs of Highly Suspect’s short six song set. I love this band’s current album but to be honest I was a little disappointed in the three and a half songs that I heard. Lydia, their single, is a fabulous track but fell flat in front of a decidedly disinterested Glasgow crowd. My personal thought here is that the half empty SSE Hydro was just too overwhelming for these three boys. I’d like to see them play somewhere a little smaller and give them a fairer bite at the cherry.

After an interval, Halestorm took to the stage in front of a much bigger crowd. (The standing arena had been sold out for weeks) They opened their set with Sick Individual and instantly the energy in the room was transformed. At points throughout their ten song, forty-five minute set, the sound quality left a lot to be desired and fans struggled to hear Lzzy over Josh’s guitar. Highlights of their set for me were Love Bites (And So Do I), Amen and Freak Like Me.

Arejay was allowed a shortened drum solo and proved to be as entertaining as ever. He put in an acrobatic performance throughout the entire set, spinning and throwing his drumsticks relentlessly, but there was one thing missing from his solo- Arejay, where were your big sticks? Fantastic drummer!

Halestorm brought their set to a storming close with I Miss The Misery. Fantastic. I miss these guys already!

Next up were Shinedown. As I watched the roadies set up the stage, I was wondering who was headlining here. They brought out an awful lot of “stuff” for what was effectively a support slot but it’s Shinedown so I’ll forgive them.

Without a word of a lie, I love Shinedown with a passion but their latest album hasn’t really hit the mark for me so I was curious to hear some of the new songs live.

I didn’t have to wait long as their forty-five minute set opened with Black Cadillac from the new record, Threat To Survival. Great choice!

Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay, Boom-Lay Boom) was next and this really got the crowd going.

A stunning performance of Second Chance followed. Love this song!

Something though wasn’t quite right for me with Brent Smith’s performance and I can’t put my finger on it. It may just have been because he never took his baseball cap off and spent a fair part of the set with his shades on. The fans never really “saw” him if you get my drift and there was a bit of a disconnect for me.

Cut The Cord, again from the latest record, was fabulous. Much better live!

Highlight of Shinedown’s set for me personally was Simple Man. I simply love that song. Beautiful!

I last saw Shinedown live in October 2013 when they supported Alter Bridge and I came away from that show wishing there had been less talking and more singing. This time was no different. I love to hear a bit of banter from a band’s front man, a bit of an insight into songs, but I’m there to listen to the music not a sermon.

Shinedown brought their nine song set to a thunderous close with Sound of Madness.  Great number to end on.

Despite the preaching, I’ll forgive Brent Smith his transgressions and be back to see them next time they are in town. Love me some Shinedown!

After Shinedown left the stage a huge curtain was raised to hide the set change. Patiently the capacity Scottish crowd waited….

At 9.25pm the lights dimmed, the curtain fell and revealed Black Stone Cherry charging headlong into Me And Mary Jane, Rain Wizard and Blind Man.  Now that’s how to start a rock show!

A few songs further into the set we were treated to a rare performance of Violator Girl from their debut album. Monster of a song.

Mid-set the fans got the chance to hear the first of two new songs that will appear on the band’s forthcoming album, Kentucky. First up was In Our Dreams. Awesome!

These guys put so much energy into their performance- from Jon Lawhorn and Ben Wells athletic race around and across the stage to Ben’s high kicks. These guys are fit!

And then there’s John Fred Young! Possibly my favourite drummer. Now it was his turn to star with a mind blowing solo! It’s truly a sight to behold. Animal, re-animated in human form. Brilliant!

As the crowd caught their breath, Chris Robertson came back on stage alone. There was a slight air of a little boy lost about him and he confessed that this part of the show scared him. Acoustic guitar in hand, Chris delivered a sensational and heartfelt performance of Things My Father Said. The Glasgow choir sang their hearts out for this one and I got the feeling that their love swelled Chris’ heart too. Incredible, honest, raw performance.

Ben Wells then came out to join him and together they performed the second of the new songs, The Rambler. Sat side by side on two tall stools, they woo-ed the crowd with this beautiful performance of a stunning new song. Absolutely loved it.

The two song acoustic slot was one of several highlights for me.

Peace Is Free saw the remaining members of the band return to the stage and mid-song they were joined by the talented Lzzy Hale from Halestorm. Great song. Great performance and always popular with the fans.

The main body of Black Stone Cherry’s ninety-minute set was brought to a close with White Trash Millionaire and Blame It On The Boom Boom.

With the crowd chanting for “one more song” or words to that effect, the boys ran back out for a short encore. They threw all their remaining energy into their standard show closer Lonely Train and rounded off proceedings with a colossal rendition of Ace Of Spade.

Great way to end an incredible night of RnFnR!

Wish I could do it all again……oh, wait, I can!  I’m off to Manchester at the end of the week to catch the final UK show of this Carnival of Madness!

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And that was 2015 …well, gig wise at least

Posted on December 30, 2015 by coralmccallum

 

 

I guess we’ve reached that time of the of year when we reflect on this year and look forward to next year.

Gig wise 2015 was a little quieter than I would’ve liked but, as we all sadly know, we can’t go to every show.

Way back in January (seems a very long time ago) I went to see Hayseed Dixie for the first time, starting the year in my favourite venue in Glasgow, the O2 ABC. The evening was certainly a musical experience. Some classic rock songs will never be the same again!

February brought Black Label Society, who were ably supported by Crobot. Zakk Wylde in a kilt is a sight to behold! Amazing night even if Boy Child’s nose hasn’t been quite the same shape since…

In March, it was Halestorm at Barrowlands. A memorable evening for many reasons! It also introduced me to two new bands to keep an eye on – Wilson and the fabulous Nothing More.

At the end of March I caught the Rival Sons show at the O2 Academy. I’ll never forget those kilts!

April should have started with Pierce The Veil and Sleeping With Sirens with my Girl Child but unfortunately I was ill and missed that show. Girl Child missed out – something I still feel guilty about.

April ended with Theory Of A Deadman at the O2 ABC. Great show!

Next up were The Gaslight Anthem at the O2 Academy at the start of June. Another great show and glad to have seen them before they announced their “hiatus”.

June 15th was most definitely a highlight show – Tremonti at the O2 ABC. Absolutely awesome show! And add in the pleasure of meeting Mark Tremonti and the rest of the band. Lovely guys.

Then began my musical drought!

(True, there were shows I could’ve gone to but I was planning ahead for 2016 and economics coupled with a modicum of common sense had to come into play)

The drought ended on 12 November in The Cathouse! Crobot were back in town and this time they were headlining! I finally got to keep my promise to be on the rail, centre front, when they headlined a show in Glasgow. Awesome night! Love those boys! Precious memories and I finally remembered to get those autographs!

And the calendar was brought to a close in December with Ghost at the O2 ABC, back where I’d started the year. A bizarrely brilliant experience.

So what lies ahead for 2016?

I’ve five shows lined up so far….

February sees The Carnival of Madness come to the UK for the first time ever, bringing Highly Suspect, Halestorm, Shinedown and Black Stone Cherry to the stage. Three of my favourite bands all on one night! No wonder I’m going twice! (Glasgow and Manchester)

At the end of February, I’ve tickets to go back to see Theory Of A Deadman.

Early April I’m going to check out Brian Fallon and the Crows (front man with The Gaslight Anthem in case you were wondering)

At the end of April I’m going to see Chris Cornell’s acoustic show.

All things going to plan there should be a few more dates added to the diary throughout the year!

Here’s to 2016 being a rockin’ good year!

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Mark Harrison – On The the Chicken Sandwich Train

Posted on December 22, 2015 by coralmccallum

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It’s almost eighteen months since I was first introduced to the music of Mark Harrison.

At that time, I’d been given Mark’s 2014 release The World Outside to review.

I’ve been hooked ever since!

Unfortunately, I missed Mark’s visit to Glasgow back in January when he performed as part of the Celtic Connections festival.

On The Chicken Sandwich Train, a live album, recorded as part of Acoustic Roots at Wigan Parish Church on 17 April 2015, is Mark’s fourth release.

Live albums are a bit of a love/hate thing for music fans. Some people love them; some people loathe them. Me- I love them!

Listening to this almost makes up for missing the Glasgow show!

This fourteen song record is interspersed with a handful of “stories”, little insights into the story behind the song and little insights into the gentle, dry humour of this talented performer.

The album opens with Big Mama’s House, from The World Outside. This is possibly the quirkiest start to a set being played in a church! Love it!

Mark has a beautifully subtle finger-picking style that sparkles throughout this entire album. Playing either his 12 string or his 1934 National, he’s equally at home creating his distinctive soundscapes.

In the past, Mark has been accompanied by a variety of equally talented musicians. On this outing, the lucky gentleman is Charles Benfield on double bass and additional vocals. He compliments Mark perfectly.

I’m not about to go through On The Chicken Sandwich Train track by track…or should that be carriage by carriage?. That’s a journey I’d strongly encourage you to buy a ticket (CD) for and enjoy at your leisure.

Even to pick out the highlights here was a challenge. Long Gone Miles and Panic Attack, both from The World Outside, stand out for me. Crematorium Blues from Crooked Smile is instantly toe-tapping but also subtly different in style to many of the other tracks. Love Your Second Line, again taking this musical journey down another track.

One of the main attractions for me to Mark’s music is his ability as a songwriter. His musicianship is beyond question but as a songwriter he’s fantastic. This album echoes with fresh, vibrant lyrics that tell stories, several of which hark back to days gone by as do a lot of his musical influences, but it all sounds as fresh and new as if it were penned only this morning. That’s a rare talent that comes straight from the soul.

This album finishes with Georgia Greene, another finger clicking, toe tapping tune. Perhaps it’s the edit of this record, but where’s the audience? I’d have loved to hear a bit more passion from them here.

Normally it’s the 5:25 to Glasgow I’d be boarding but I’m very pleased to have journeyed On The Chicken Sandwich Train.

Fantastic musical journey.

Who knows, if and when Mark returns to Glasgow, I may yet board the 5:25 to see his show.

 

9/10

 

Oh, and if you want to know the story behind the Chicken Sandwich train, buy the album! You won’t regret it.

http://www.markharrisonrootsmusic.com/shop.php

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Photo of Mark Harrison -credits to the owner Mal Whichelow

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A Ghostly experience at the O2 ABC Glasgow

Posted on December 20, 2015 by coralmccallum

For the final time this year I boarded the 5:25 to Glasgow, heading once again to the city’s O2 ABC venue. Ending the year exactly where my gig calendar began way back in January.

It’s no secret – the O2 ABC is my favourite venue in the city.

The headline band for the evening were Ghost, those nameless, masked Swedish ghouls led by Papa Emeritus III.

Neither Boy Child, my chaperone for the evening, nor I really knew what to expect.

Even as we stood in the queue on a surprisingly mild December night, we were struggling to gauge things as we surveyed the folk joining the queue behind us.

The show was a sell-out so the line was soon snaking up the hill behind us.

A hint of things to come was to be found at the merchandise stall. Among the usual CDs, vinyl, T-shirts and hoodies were rosary beads for sale. A first for me at a rock show.

There was only one support act, Dead Soul, a trio from Sweden. Boy Child and I had been chatting in the queue outside to a guy who has been following the Ghost tour round the UK and had asked him about Dead Soul. We had asked him to describe Dead Soul’s genre. He couldn’t. Having heard their blessedly short set, I too struggle to describe them. They comprise two guitarists, synth and drum tracking al accompanied by a vocalist who has an OK voice but who looked like Tommy Flanagan (Chibs from SOA) impersonating Jake from The Blues Brothers.

I’m sorry, these guys failed to touch my soul. The atmosphere in the rapidly filling room was pretty dead too.

Apart from a disappointing support band, so far, all had seemed pretty normal….then someone lit an incense stick on stage. Another first!

While the stage crews turned the stage around ready for the arrival of Ghost, the PA system was playing “church music” – hymnal organs, Gregorian chants et al. All that was missing were the pews and hassocks!

The lights remained dimmed. The incense smoke drifted out over the crowd. The air of expectation grew.

Boy Child’s face was a study!

At half past eight, the lights dimmed even further and intro tape played Misere Mei, Deus followed by Masked Ball. The smoke began to creep out as the masked ghouls appeared on stage, starting their ninety-minute set with Spirit. This was swiftly followed by From The Pinnacle To The Pit, one of the highlights from their current album Meliora, and one I’d expected to sound heavier than it did played live. Awesome song!

Papa Emeritus was resplendent in his robes as he presided over proceedings, subtly converting the Glasgow crowd. The ghouls looked sensational in their black suits, spats and metallic sheen masks.

About half an hour in, Papa brought the Sisters of Sin (two young local ladies dressed as nun) for the evening out on stage. He advised that those lucky enough to be in the front row would be invited to participate in the next song – Body And Blood. While the ghouls played and Papa preached.. sorry sang… the Sisters of Sin came down into the pit and offered “communion” to those of us lining the barrier.

Never in my life did I expect to experience that at a rock show!!

Devil Church, an instrumental track from Meliora, allowed Papa time to slip off stage for a change of costume. He re-appeared for Cirice immaculately dressed in a tail coat, white waistcoat and spats.

After a recording of the haunting Spoksonat as played, Ghost performed He Is. This is one of my favourites from Meliora and conjures up images of Justin Hayward’s War of the Worlds. The crowd were singing along passionately.

At one point during the latter stages of the set Papa came over to my side of the stage and sang to me. His eyes, even with all his make-up on were boring into my very soul, then he smiled and blew me a kiss before heading back across the stage.

Mummy Dust, highlight of the set, really got the crowd going. One glance behind me informed me, as expected, that Boy Child had vanished. No surprise as the mosh pit had opened up behind me and off to the right. The riff from Mummy Dust was certainly blowing all dust away. It’s a monster and sounds awesome live.

Up until them the security personnel had enjoyed an easy evening. Mummy Dust was the catalyst the crowd surfers had been waiting for. Flailing bodies were coming over thick and fast. Crowd surfers make me nervous, having been kicked in the head and on the shoulder on a previous memorable occasion. The security guys did a sterling job here.

The main set concluded with a Roky Erickson cover “If You Have Ghosts.”

Yes, we’d had Ghosts!

Papa was in a playful mood as he introduced the encore song, Monstrance Clock, a homage to Lucifer’s love and the female orgasm. The set played out with a recording of The Host of Seraphim.

A bizarrely brilliant night. The crowd trooped home feeling suitably blessed.

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