Rival Sons (with support from The Record Company) - 02 Academy Bristol, 07/11/19

Photo credit: Rick Horn

Opener for Rival Sons tonight at Bristol’s 02 Academy is L.A trio The Record Company; a mix of classic rock, punk and blues, creating a unique sound while keeping the 'friends that jam' feel. There’s gritty slide guitar, fuzzed out vocals and bass and they have an undeniable energy. And, you've never seen a more energetic harmonica player than frontman Chris Vos.

They’re playing songs from album Give It Back To You and more recent release All of This Life.From the latter, Life To Fix is the recognisable one, having made it's way onto Planet Rock a few times. Like the blue-collar, sing-alongs that come out of New Jersey, it has a foot-stomping, relentless rhythm prompting crowd participation. It wouldn’t be a surprise if they came back to this venue on their own steam next time.

The headliners hit the boho-decorated stage with one banger after another.  Hits from Great Western Valkyrie like Electric Man , which is an obvious winner, Where I've Been, that is powerful and heartfelt and Open My Eyes which has a space age opening with guitarist Scott Holiday making intergalactic noises via riffage. The songs chant-worthy chorus of ‘somebody’ is causing a wave of voices to vibrate the ceiling tiles.

Tied Up from follow-up album Hollow Bones, is a staunch number that nails being funky and emotive, displaying frontman Jay Buchanan’s powerfully gritty vocal.

Jay has minimal moves, letting the music possess his soul. All eyes are on him, like a divine being, soaking up the sonic vibrations as if spinning in an outer ether wonderland of musical highs.

Will we get through this without mentioning Jim Morrison? No. The guy exudes his vibe, fully expected and wanted by the audience.

Performing songs from the new album Feral Roots is the reason for the show; a highlight being Too Bad, which stands up next to their established releases, with confident lyrics and robust composition. The band can do no wrong and let’s hope they keep their record of bettering themselves with each new release.