Black Stone Cherry (BSC) now has the unique distinction of being the only band I’ve photographed in four different states! I think in most of my other reviews I’ve mentioned this band works hard to put on a decent rock show. With mercury hovering at a balmy 102 degrees, I somehow thought the mighty BSC may not be so mighty in the Texas summer. Wrong again.
Guitarist Ben Wells and newish-bassist Steve Jewell surely must have drank a case of energy drinks, both rockers never let up throughout the hour and a half set! Although he looked completely drained as the band took their bows, drummer John Fred Young had finally beat his drum kit into submission. Frontman Chris Robertson may not have projected as much physical energy, but his vocal aerobics would have worn out Arnold Schwarzenegger! But all the band’s onstage gyrations should not be a distraction from the main reason one attends a BSC show, the music. And it just so happens they’re touring in support of the forthcoming album, Screamin at the Sky.
This somewhat impromptu show opened with the album’s title track. A song that delivers a powerful message, addressing the frustrations of living in today’s world. For a show that was announced with limited notice there was a sizable turnout. Earlier in the afternoon Wells took to social media, giving followers a view of this unique venue. And what BSC show would be complete without their signature covers of Tracy Chapman’s, “Give Me One Reason” and ELO’s “Don’t Bring Me Down.” Value added for tonight’s show a snippet of Tyler Childers, “Whitehouse Road” made an appearance during “In My Blood.”
On short notice Texas natives Lowside got the night’s festivities under way. As it turned out the band’s lead singer Ron Taylor was going to be there one way or another, his wife had already purchased tickets for the show! Taylor and company are rock veterans that know how to entertain with a classic sound that never gets old. It also happens that these guys were promoting some new music as well. This Old Life was recently released into the world and it is a great representation of what this band is all about! You can find out more dirt on them here
BSC’s limited crew also works hard to ensure you’re going to get your money’s worth. Guitar techs double as photographers and monitor mixers. Even percussionist Jeffery Boggs pulled double duty, repositioning Young’s boom mic when needed. And as always you can find merch master “Calm Dean” selling the band’s wares.
As the last notes of “Lonely Train” fade I think of the first time I photographed the band in Dayto, OH back in 2013. Those images were some of the worst concert photos I’ve taken. So, if I’ve never said it publicly, I’ll say it now, thank you BSC for the inspiration to do better, and to always “Keep On Keepin On!
To the Black Stone Cherry crew, thank you for allowing MTC access to the show, and also to our gracious hosts at Legacy Hall!
Photos of the show are below:
Lowside
Black Stone Cherry / Lowside @ Legacy Hall, Plano, TX
Reviewed by Scott Rowe, Editor
on
August 28, 2023
Rating:
Reviewed by Scott Rowe, Editor
on
August 28, 2023
Rating:
