LIVE REVIEW: Legendary Guitarist Slash and Myles Kennedy Deliver Their Solid Act at the Stir Cove

August 16, 2019 Robert Chadwick Concert Reviews Comments Off

3M1A2187 — Myles Kennedy and legendary rock guitarist Slash perform at the Harrah's Stir Cove in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Friday, August 9, 2019. Photo by Robert A. Chadwick

WORDS BY DAVID TAYLOR AND PHOTOS BY ROBERT A CHADWICK | Go Venue Magazine

On Friday, August 9, Slash made his return to the Stir Cove stage since 2010 to a roaring crowd. Along with the top-hat wearing guitarist, he brought along Myles Kennedy, singer of Alter Bridge, and his backing band, the Conspirators. It was a beautiful evening in Council Bluffs, Iowa, perfect weather for an outdoor concert.

Canadian rockers Royal Tusk was the direct support for the night. These young rockers brought the energy to the crowd. The crowd was digging their catchy hooks. I was really impressed by their lead guitarist, Quinn Cyrankiewicz, shredding skils. He truly made his band feel right in place for opening up for a legendary guitar player. The band’s ultimate goal was to make everyone feel like they’re having a great time and they succeeded in doing that.

The moment everyone waited for had finally arrived: Slash hitting the stage! Donning his aviator sunglasses and iconic top hat, Slash played all through the night, soloing for days. A good majority of his included seven songs from his latest album, Living the Dream. As Guns N’ Roses is currently actively touring with Slash in tow, he mainly focused on his solo material, but he did play the GNR classic “Nightrain”. Myles Kennedy’s singing was phenomenal, so much soul and gravitas. Bassist Todd Kerns is not only an awesome bassist, but a great singer, harmonizing with Myles and getting to sing lead for a couple of songs, “We’re All Gonna Die” and “Doctor Alibi”. But, Slash was the star of the night, really showcasing his guitar soloing skills in an extended solo on “Wicked Stone”. It was like seeing Picasso paint a portrait. Thank you, Harrah’s Stir Cove, for finally getting Slash to come back to Council Bluffs and play such a memorable show. It made me more excited to see him with Guns N’ Roses.