NEW YORK’S DES ROCS BRINGS THE ENERGY TO SOLD-OUT CROWD
AT MANCHESTER’S REBELLION.

★★★★★ (5/5)

In the heart of Manchester's ever-bustling music scene, the Rebellion Rock Bar pulsated with anticipation as the city embraced the start of gig season. On this particular chilly Friday evening, something rather remarkable filled the air - it was an atmosphere of pure exhilaration that defied uncertain times. One can tell that the vibes was just right. It even felt right.

Des Rocs, the electrifying New York guitarist, was poised and ready to electrify the sold-out crowd. Decked in his signature leather attire, the evening ignited the crowd with his three blues-infused electro-rock anthems of Dream Machine, Wayne and Used To The Darkness. Bringing some delectable dark country feels of Natural Born Thriller through to the thunderous chords in White Gold, it was testimony to the transformative power of his musicianship. As Des Rocs delivered his motivational yet quirky speech, the sold-out crowd was immersed in a portrait of a lonely night in his hometown of Union Square through the emotionally charged Manic Memories. In that shared moment of vulnerability, the barriers between artist and audience dissolved, creating an intimate bond that turned Rebellion Bar into an extension of the raw honesty of the music.

The energy reached its peak during Bad Blood and I Am the Lightning gave the virtuoso the opportunity to flex his guitar skills, mirroring the passion of his audience. A spirited rendition of HVY MTL DRMR left the crowd breathless and returning for an encore of raucous melodies from Let Me Live / Let Me Die, which in turn cemented the connection between Des Rocs and his loyal fans with the final track for the night, Suicide Romantics. For the young expert on his first sold-out UK tour, it was a lovely performance that not only left an indelible mark, but also made a testament to the enduring spirit of rock & roll and the unwavering power of human connection.