LIVE REVIEW + PHOTOS: Slash, Keb Mo in Boston, MA (08.01.24)
It was a hot and muggy day in Boston, temps just starting to come down from a 90 degree heat wave as Slash’s “S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Blues Fest” descended upon the Leader Bank Pavilion Tent along the water front. I hadn’t planned on going to this show initially as it was just way too hot out, but in the end, I had to check this show out. It seemed like a much different show than he normally plays, featuring some very talented blues artists, and I mean c’mon: it’s Slash. This festival tour billed itself as a blues extravaganza, showcasing an “array of blues veterans, creating an unforgettable celebration of soulful melodies and electrifying performances.” The name of the festival is an anagram that stands for Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality, N’, Tolerance.
I ended up missing the first 2 acts that went on: ZZ Ward and Robert Randolph (who I’ve seen many times before and always puts on a great show) due to the heat and timing. But I made sure to catch Keb Mo’ before the man of the hour. I had never seen him play before and I’d heard nothing but great things. He has been described as “a living link to the seminal Delta blues that traveled up the Mississippi River and across the expanse of America.” Entering the stage to a big applause, Mo’ opened with “Somebody Hurt You,” which set a poignant tone for the evening. The song’s rich, soulful guitar riffs and heartfelt lyrics immediately drew the crowd into his world. His smooth, resonant voice, combined with his understated yet compelling guitar work, created an intimate atmosphere that was both warm and electrifying. Keb’ Mo’ seamlessly transitioned to “Government Cheese,” a track that showcased his ability to weave social commentary into his music with a light-hearted touch. I wasn’t too familiar with most of his material but his craftsmanship and skill was apparent in his playing, setting the bluesy tone for the evening. I could sense that through his songs, he narrated tales of travel and self-discovery with a blend of humor and wisdom. At one point during his set he mentioned, “They said I could have a chair…I don’t need no stinkin chair.” And he certainly didn’t, as Keb stood his whole set and played his heart out for this crowd.
Next up was the Gibson wielding man in the hat; the man, the myth, the legend that is Slash. I feel that one would be hard pressed to name a more notable guitar rock n roller to emerge from the 80’s who’s as big a rockstar today on his own, despite gaining notoriety in a band as huge as Guns N Roses. I would even go as far to say as he is probably one of the most influential guitarists of our generation. Man, I was such a big fan of Velvet Revolver as well. Just with those 2 albums they released, so many epic shows. For me, that was the epitome of supergroups. Velvet had that down and dirty old rock n roll feel with songs and production that could easily fill up stadiums. Ok…that’s enough gushing. Onto the show.
The evening began with a roaring tribute to Bukka White’s “Parchman Farm Blues.” From the moment the first notes rang out, the crowd was hooked. The raw, gritty energy of the performance captured the essence of classic blues, setting a high bar for the night. This was immediately followed by a powerful rendition of Howlin’ Wolf’s “Killing Floor.” The performance was intense and evocative, channeling the legendary bluesman’s deep, growling vocals and fiery guitar work. Most of Slash’s set this night was material from his newest collaboration album “Orgy From The Damned” (released in May) which featured recordings with notable performers Chris Robinson, Gary Clark Jr, Billy Gibbons, Chris Stapleton, Iggy Pop, Paul Rogers, Brain Johnson… the list goes on. Of the new tracks, “The Pusher” comes to mind as a strong live song, with his keys player handling the vocals. I felt he gave this track the Dr. John treatment, bringing soul, blues, and an almost swampy funk to the song previously sung on the album by Chris Robinson from The Black Crowes. The highly anticipated collaboration came with Booker T. & the MG’s “Born Under a Bad Sign,” featuring Keb’ Mo’ who came out on stage to jam. The duet was a standout moment of the festival, blending Mo’s smooth, modern blues style with the classic track’s deep, resonant groove. The synergy between the two artists was palpable and electrifying. “Crossroad Road Blues” was another standout jam of the night, bringing electricity and rocking high energy to Robert Johnson’s iconic track, capturing the essence of the original while adding a modern edge. The performance was both a tribute and a reinvention, resonating powerfully with both old and new fans. Jimi Hendrix’s “Stone Free” brought a psychedelic blues flair that captivated the audience with its experimental guitar work and energetic delivery. The performance was a fitting tribute to Hendrix’s legacy, infusing the blues with a sense of wild, creative freedom.
Overall, Slash’s S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Blues Fest was a remarkable celebration of blues music, blending classic tracks with contemporary interpretations andsome fun collaborations. The performances were both a nod to the genre’s rich history and a showcase of its evolving future, making for a truly memorable night at Boston’s Leader Bank Pavilion.
Photos – Slash, Keb Mo at Leader Bank Pavilion in Boston, MA on August 1st:
