Southern Comfort: Black Stone Cherry Unleash a Rock Masterclass

★★★★★ (5/5)

**BLACK STONE CHERRY PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S OVO HYDRO**
**PHOTOCREDIT: CALUM BUCHAN**

From the moment Black Stone Cherry stepped onto the stage of Glasgow's OVO Hydro, it became clear this would be more than just a concert – it was a full-blown rock 'n' roll assault. The Kentucky four-piece transformed the massive arena into their playground, delivering a pure, unbridled passion performance.

There were two support bands Ayron Jones and Skillet. Seattle’s Ayron Jones and his band mashed together rock, grunge, hip-hop and soul in an exciting set that showcased why Ayron is seen as a bright, up-and-coming star. “Filthy” and “Blood in the Water” were real standouts.

Skillet ignited the still-filling arena with its signature blend of hard rock intensity. Frontman John Cooper's powerful vocals soared through hits like "Monster" and "Hero," while Korey Cooper's guitar work added atmospheric depth. Jen Ledger's thunderous drums and vocal harmonies particularly shone during "Awake and Alive." With a powerful, ear-melting set, the band proved why they've remained rock mainstays for over two decades.

Black Stone Cherry opened with the thunderous "Me and Mary Jane", and the band immediately set the tone. Chris Robertson's distinctive vocals cut through the arena while Ben Wells' guitar work created a wall of sound that seemed to shake the venue's walls. The audience responded with cheers that could have powered a small city.

"When the Pain Comes" from the Band’s new Album “ Screamin’ at the Sky” proved to be another highlight, showcasing the band's ability to blend raw power with intricate musicianship. John Fred Young's explosive drumming had the crowd leaping as one. Robertson's guitar solo drew huge cheers that threatened to drown out the music.

Hat’s off to the sound engineer. The music was loud and full on but excellent with every note ringing out with crystal clarity. When the band launched into "White Trash Millionaire", the sound was perfectly balanced as the band shredded their instruments.

Stage presence has always been Black Stone Cherry's secret weapon. Robertson prowled the stage, his interactions with Wells creating a dynamic that suggested decades of musical brotherhood. No one stood still for a minute, either interacting with the crowd or racing around the stage. The band's connection with the passionate audience was palpable – every note pulling them into BSC’s rock 'n' roll world. Chris reminded the crowd that this was the 17th year in a row that the Band had played Glasgow since their first gig in Garage in 2007.

John Fred Young was centre stage for “Cheaper to Drink Alone” with an enormous five-minute drum solo that had the crowd on its toes, punching the air and bouncing to the beats.

As the night reached its climax, the band closed with the fan favourite “Peace is Free”, leaving nothing on the table. The audience – by now a sweating, jubilant mass – sang every word. In an era of manufactured pop, Black Stone Cherry reminds us of rock's primal, untamed power – straight on Kentucky rock 'n' roll.