Back Door Slam

I checked out their show a couple nights ago. Can't remember the last time I saw a concert - I'm thinking it's maybe ten years or more. Was perusing the local alternative rag, when I observed the advertisement for a Blues/Rock band from Isle of Man, with an explosive young guitarist who was being compared to Hendrix and other greats. My own guitar playing had become uninspired as of late - after playing continuously for almost a year - so I figured this might give me a creative lift.

I showed up just after the opening act had started, after consuming a small amount of single malt whiskey. They were called Smoking Train Wreck - a local blues band - and they were decent enough. Not much synergy though - at times their timing was a little off - and they sounded like 4 guys playing instead of a band. But hey, better than I can do, and it was entertaining.

Next up, the main act : Back Door Slam. A 3 piece band, with all members around 20 years old (they mentioned something about not being able to drink in this country). These guys kicked ass ! The lead guitar was very dominant, often a wall of mesmerizing hard-edged bluesy rock licks. The rhythm section was definitely in the background, but provided tight accompaniment. They did a bunch of original songs and a few covers. It was a bit strange hearing a 20 year old sing a blues song about his 'Old Lady'. Overall a great act though - catch it if you can.