LIVE REVIEW: BUSH in Boston, MA (08.24.24)
(File image by: John Hutchings | 2016)
The stage was set for another summer night of 90’s rock nostalgia. For all those who haven’t been keeping dibs, this has been quite the throwback summer for music fans in the Boston area. We have been visited by an absolute fury of bands who’ve had their start or heyday in the 90s. Hootie & The Blowfish with Barenaked Ladies and Collective Soul, The Aquabats, Dave Matthews Band, Phish, Blink 182, Green Day, Smashing Pumpkins, Rancid, Slash, Blues Traveler, 311, newly reunited Sublime, Incubus… Stone Temple Pilots are even playing soon with Live, Soul Asylum, and Our Lady Peace. What a trip! For those of us “Xennials”/older millenials where this music made up our formative years in grade through high school, many of these artists hold a certain place in our minds and hearts. Which leads me to tonight’s throwback bearing witness to Bush, Jerry Cantrell (from Alice in Chains), and Candlebox. Though we aren’t able to share any of the exciting visuals from the night’s performances, here’s out things played out.
The first band, Candlebox, I had been eagerly anticipating as this was the first time able to see them. I had a chance to catch a set of theirs about 11 years ago at Hampton Beach Ballroom & Casino, when I was filming for the opening band Bionic (which then became Craving Lucy – great band, look them up). After the opening band finished, I wanted to stay at least for a bit of the headliner but the other 2 people I had helping me film it had other plans. So fast forward to 2024, I was pretty stoked. They kicked off the evening with a powerful set that struck a balance between their classic hits and new material. The opening track, “Arrow,” set a commanding tone, followed by the anthemic “Stand” that had the crowd singing along. One highlight of their set was the debut of “Elegante,” a new song that showcased a promising evolution in their sound—full of rich melodies and emotive lyrics. Throughout their set, there were certainly a lot of screaming and distorted guitars brought me back to the early 90s grunge scene. The set peaked with the iconic “Far Behind,” sending waves of nostalgia through the audience (as well as a pretty lengthy mid song scream), and they closed with “You,” a fitting end to a solid and rather loud performance.
Next up, was Alice In Chain’s co-singer and lead guitarist, Jerry Cantrell who was as cool, grungy, and moody as I had remembered from previous performances of his. With a mix of his solo work and classics from Alice in Chains, Cantrell’s performance was a testament to his enduring talent and influence. He opened with “Vilified,” a new track that immediately grabbed attention with its gritty edge and haunting melodies, very old school sound. I can’t wait for the new album which comes out in Oct. If his last recording from 2021 is any indication, should be a fantastic addition to his already stellar discography.
The setlist was a celebration of Cantrell’s extensive career, highlighted by Alice in Chains’ classics like “Man in the Box,” “Them Bones,” “Would?,” and “Rooster.” Each song was delivered with a fervor that spoke to Cantrell’s deep connection to the material. They also featured singer Greg Puciato, from Dillinger Escape Plan, on vocals carrying a little more than half of Layne’s vocals in the Alice covers (It took a rabbit hole on youtube to find his name). The seamless transitions from his solo work, such as “Had to Know” and “Brighten,” to the iconic Alice in Chains anthems created a captivating journey through his discography.
A standout moment was “Psychotic Break,” which showcased Cantrell’s impeccable guitar work and vocal prowess. “Siren Song” and “Cut You In” offered a compelling contrast, demonstrating his versatility as an artist. By the time Cantrell wrapped up with “Rooster,” the crowd was fully immersed and ready for the main event.
Bush took the stage to close out the night, and their set was nothing short of electrifying. Opening with just the sound of drums, building up tension into the explosive “Everything Zen”. The band immediately commanded the audience’s attention. Hits like “Machinehead” and “Bullet Holes” followed, each track executed with a perfect blend of nostalgia and renewed energy. Singer Gavin Rossdale started the set with what appeared like a white frock, and then of course settled into his usual tattered tank top. I have to mention, he sounded as good as ever. It’s always wild to hear such powerful grit and growl from a man a dapper and well put together as Gavin.
The setlist included a mix of fan favorites and newer material, such as “The Chemicals Between Us” and “Greedy Fly,” which maintained the high energy throughout. Gavin Rossdale’s solo performances of “Swallowed” (very powerful and dramatic rendition) and “Glycerine” were highlights providing intimate moments that contrasted with the high-octane rock that defined the rest of the set. The crowd was particularly engaged during “Flowers on a Grave,” which saw Rossdale in the crowd, creating a personal connection with fans. In fact, he danced right by me getting on seats throughout a whole row, high fiving and giving random hugs. He was clearly having a blast, and the energy was infectious. “Little Things” was very enjoyable, high spirited and a great end to the regular set.
Bush’s encore was a thrilling conclusion to the night. “More Than Machines” and an energetic cover of The Beatles’ “Come Together” were followed by “Glycerine,” (performed solo by Rossdale), before leaving the audience with “Come Down” featuring Jery Cantrell, which certainly brought the house down.
The evening was a triumphant showcase of rock’s enduring appeal, with Candlebox, Jerry Cantrell, and Bush each bringing their unique styles to the stage. From Candlebox’s nostalgic hits and new offerings to Cantrell’s powerful tribute to Alice in Chains and Bush’s high-energy performance, the concert was a testament to the lasting impact of these iconic artists. Fans left the venue buzzing, having witnessed a night of exceptional music and unforgettable moments.
