Former Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash with Myles Kennedy & the Conspirators performed Sunday night to a packed house at “The Warfield” in San Francisco in support of their new album “Live At The Roxy”. For the past 30 years, Slash has been at the forefront of creating some of the most powerful hard rock we all know and love. From Guns N’ Roses, Slash’s Snakepit, Velvet Revolver, his Solo project and now with Myles Kennedy, whom he met during his solo album in 2010, Slash’s unique style and sound has kept center stage in the classic rock world.
What an amazing show. Slash has surrounded himself with top shelf musicians that allow him to be Slash and just rock the guitar. From the opening song, “You’re A Lie” to the last “Paradise City”; Slash set the world on fire with his furious guitar playing. He is the best guitarist I have ever seen live. When he brought out the double neck guitar with acoustic and electric strings to play “Civil War” and “Anastasia”, it was absolutely amazing. Their GNR cover of “Rocket Queen” stretched out 20+ minutes where Slash again shines where you’re left wanting more. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” came as a surprise when they played it towards the end of the show. They had just played excellent renditions of “Rocket Queen”, “Bent To Fly”, “World On Fire” and “Anastasia” and while I’m still trying to digest what I had just heard, they powered into “Sweet Child O’ Mine” causing the crowd to go insane. I must admit, I’ve heard that song at least a thousand times over the years, and I usually don’t seek out to listen, but to witness live was a whole other experience. It’s like rediscovering a song you forgot about. You know that feeling. The live version was that powerful. There setlist leaned more to Slash’s solo and Myles Kennedy work with the remaining setlist of GNR and 1 song by VR “Slither”. Slash played in his usual spot right of center stage allowing his bandmates the freedom to roam. In fact, Slash did not have a mic and finally spoke to the crowd towards the end of the set to introduce Myles Kennedy. Slash chose to let his guitar do the talking.
Slash has found a diamond in the rough with Myles Kennedy. A current member of Alter Bridge (Creed minus Scott Stapp) and formerly of Mayfield 4, Myles has finally gained the recognition he deserves as one of rock music most outstanding vocalists. Myles vocal range allows him to sing GNR and VR classics while making the songs his own. He doesn’t try to impersonate Axl Rose and Scott Weiland’s sound and style. He must be living a dream writing new music and being in a successful band with Slash. I must mention the Conspirators with Todd Kerns on bass, Frank Sidous on rhythm guitar and Brent Frits playing drums. This is a tight rhythm section which allows Slash to concentrate on his guitar and not concern himself with managing the band during the show. Todd has been showcased on 2 songs “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Doctor Alibi” providing lead vocals on the live album and on tour. He does a fantastic job on the covers providing high energy to the setlist.
I look forward to many more years of Slash creating music adding to his already impressive collection of music. There is a possibility of a GNR reunion in the near future which has potential to knock planet earth off its axis, which will give global warming a whole new meaning.