Hell N Back - Hard as a Rock in Oakville

'Hell N Back' delivered their high energy, rock and roll show, Thursday night at Oakville's Sixth Line Pub and Sports Bar. Having previously been to the Pub the weekend before to see James with his other band 'Rockin' a Hard Place', I was looking forward to their show and hearing the new tunes that were recently added to the setlist.

Jeff Collins, Garry Lennox, James Alcock, Marty Portier, Kyle Cyr

Since the first time seeing these guys in February, I have been impressed at every show how much they put into their performances. Regardless of the size of the audience, it's non-stop rock and roll throughout three hit filled sets.

Each individual band member brings to the band something unique. Collectively, they can be a force to be reckoned with.

Vocally, James has the ability,with his live presence, to assume the roles of both Bon Scott and Brian Johnson. Kyle, proves why he's the perfect Angus for the band. He has copious amounts of stamina in order to recreate the visuals that any AC/DC fan is aware of when watching the band. You couldn't ask for a better rhythm section than drummer Garry, bassist Marty and guitarist Jeff. Where most rhythm sections provide accompaniment to the vocals and lead guitar, this trio are equally important to make the band work as a whole. When they bring their A-game to a set, they are a well oiled machine that makes for a fantastic night of music.

They delivered an array of both Brian Johnson and Bon Scott led AC/DC hits. 'Highway to Hell', 'Back in Black', 'You Shook Me All Night Long', 'T.N.T' and many more to stretch over three sets.

It may have been a weeknight, but that didn't stop the guys from giving it their all and performing the crowd favorites. Midway through the first set, they debuted a couple numbers from the iconic 1980 release 'Back in Black'. Despite it being their first time playing 'Let Me Put My Love Into You' and 'What Do You Do For Money Honey' in front of a live audience, they still sounded amazing. Also included in the first set, was 'Night Prowler'. They debuted it at a previous show, but it was much tighter and personally was a highlight of the night for me.

James handed over the microphone to Catalyst vocalist, and friend, Al Reilly for 'TNT'. Later in the night the two would perform an impressive performance of 'Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap'.

A 'Hell N Back' show isn't complete unless there's a strip tease, appropriately during 'Bad Boy Boogie', and James climbing chairs to belt out the lyrics for a song. That night it was 'Dog Eat Dog'. Their repertoire continues to grow as they are working on new material for future shows.



It was another amazing show by these guys who are equally great on and off the stage. They're always welcoming and it has been an honour becoming friends with them.

'Hell N Back' emulates the pure power and electricity of what an AC/DC show is all about and have proved to audiences that rock and roll ain't noise pollution. They deservedly earn the title of 'Ultimate Canadian AC/DC tribute'.

Special thanks to 'Hell N Back' for another amazing night of great music.

The band and their young fans

To find out where the boys are playing next, be sure to like them on Facebook and check out their official website for bios, media, gigs and lots more.

Official Hell N Back Facebook Page
Official Hell N Back Website

Photo Galleries at: Flickr


Also on: Kaotic Notes

Rockin' A Hard Place

The crowd may have been sparse at Sixth Line Pub in Oakville on Saturday night, but there was continuous non-stop rock and roll courtesy of 'Rockin' a Hard Place'.

Sixth Line Pub, is a friendly sports bar with numerous tvs to watch all your favourite sports teams. A couple tables to take in a game of pool, and an impressive size stage area. Not to mention friendly owners and staff.

Occupying that stage area was 'Rockin' a Hard Place'. The Toronto based band delivers high energy rock with an equally high energy based set list that is sure to please everyone. it was my third time seeing the band, and like the previous shows, I had a fantastic time. (Previous Review)

'Rockin' a Hard Place' consists of: James Alcock (Vocals); Andrew Walsh (Guitar); JD Bass (Bass); and Brian Wall (Drums). (Absent for this gig was Keys/Guitarist Harold Boudreau).

The night began with a wonderful rendition of Led Zeppelin's 'What Is and What Should Never Be'. From that point forward, it was continuous non-stop rock and roll that stretched out over three sets, not to mention tunes from many decades. They set forth to contribute to everyone's fun night and in no time people were up and dancing. Whether it was songs from Zep, Queen, Rolling Stones or AC/DC to Alice in Chains, Judas Priest and Rick Derringer, 'Rockin' a Hard Place' successfully delivers a versatile song list that would please any music lover.

Like at previous shows, James would interact with the audience and ask them to choose between two songs for the band to play. He's no stranger to the open jam nights throughout the Toronto area bars, he's always one to jump on the stage at any chance he gets.

James is the epitome of a rockstar. His superb showmanship shines through no matter which band he is currently fronting. (James also fronts AC/DC tribute band 'Hell N Back').

The incomparable talent and dedication that he possesses puts him ahead of others in similar roles. Always one to challenge himself, he takes on difficult songs with a confidence that concludes with an extraordinary performance.

Case in point, the band decided to debut the Led Zeppelin bluesy masterpiece 'Since I've Been Loving You'. Some may have seen it as an ambitious move, but with a kick ass attitude, they managed to successfully pull it off.

Watch Video: "Since I've Been Loving You"
Watch Video: "Highway Star"
Watch Video: "TNT"

In order to be able to perform the varied songs that they cover at each show, you need a strong guitarist who can pull off the riffs and solos with ease.

For 'Rockin' a Hard Place', they are fortunate to have Andrew in that role. There's no denying that he is fully capable of tackling all the songs that the band decides to perform during the night. A consummate master on guitar, Andrew delivers familiar songs, but with his own unique way of playing and improvisation.

Outside of 'Rockin' a Hard Place', Andrew keeps busy by perfecting his craft with many projects. One of these being 'Heartless'. An incredible tribute to the Wilson sisters, performing all the Heart classics, with some Led Zeppelin covers throw in for good measure.

Watch Video: "Roadhouse Blues"
Watch Video: "Whole Lotta Love"
Watch Video: "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap"

Sometimes overlooked and underrated, the bassist falls by the wayside. But on this night, the bass was at the forefront and sounded amazing, thanks to JD. Assuming his role to link the harmony of a song with the distinctive rhythm. He propelled the music along, with his distinctive groove.

Shining throughout the night, at one point he teased us with that all too familiar and beloved 'Dazed & Confused' bass intro.

While chatting with him throughout the night, I discovered that his musical tastes varies and to learn that he is influenced and plays everything from fusion, rock, heavy metal, it was quite impressive. You can hear some of his music HERE.

You can catch him performing alongside Andrew in 'Heartless'.

Watch Video: "Another Thing Coming"
Watch Video: "Brown Sugar"
Watch Video: "Back in Black"

Backing up his bandmates, and holding the beat throughout the night was Brian Wall. He has toured with Michael White and assumed the role of John Bonham. He brings to his playing a distinctive swing when he plays. Powerful yet in control.

He understands his role in 'Rockin' a Hard Place'. As a drummer he is the foundation, the anchor of the band.

He can adapt easily to the song they are playing at the time, switching between the different eras of music.

Overall the four musicians make up an impressive band.

Watch Video: "Cocaine"
Watch Video: "Rock n Roll Hoochie Koo"
Watch Video: "Man in the Box"


The three sets progressed nicely throughout the night. Despite the attendance at the bar decreasing prior to their third set, that did not stop them from taking the stage once more and delivering more music for the people who were there.

This was a prime example of sheer professionalism on their behalf. From the first song of the night to the last, it was nothing but passion and dedication to play the best they could.

Overall it was a good night. Great music and great friends.

I look forward to seeing them again and would highly recommend them to anyone who enjoys a hard working band who performs to the best of their talent.

Special thanks to James, Andrew, Jd, and Brian for an amazing time and always for being so welcoming to your shows.

Important Links:
Official Rockin' a Hard Place Facebook
Official Rockin' a Hard Place Website

Official Heartless Facebook
Official Heartless Website

Official Hell N Back Facebook
Official Website

~.~
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Official Kaotic Notes Website

Ki:Theory/Joel Burleson

My first exposure to Ki:Theory was while watching ‘The Following’ in February 2014. Superimposed over a key moment of the show, was this haunting sound that contributed to the darkness of the episode. It was the Ben E. King hit ‘Stand By Me’, but done so in a way that I had never heard before. The chilling vocals crept in, and soon with the addition of a hypnotic and fierce score, they exploded and took the song to a whole higher level.  The song was intensified with an increasing tempo and powerful vocals. It was the perfect accompaniment to the events in the show. Talk about a riveting way to end the episode.
Watch episode HERE

Photo by:Jacob Coppage

Once I discovered who was responsible for such an extraordinary remix of a classic, I became a fan and have been hooked on Ki:Theory’s music ever since.

So who is Ki:Theory? Richmond, Virginia native Joel Burleson is essentially the one man musical genius behind the indie-electronic rock masterpieces. Writer, producer, recording artist, Joel wears many hats. Since the release of “The Recording Session EP” in 2005, to the more recent “Live Bootleg / Seattle E.M.P” (2014), Joel has toured in Japan, Korea, Canada and throughout the US.
​
He has had his music featured in commercials, tv series, movies, and video games. Joel has remixed tracks for such artists like Queens of the Stone Age , Daft Punk, Cypress Hill, Odesza, Rob Zombie and many more. ​

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What fascinated me with Joel, aside from his musical prowess, is the fact that he is very attentive to his fans on his official social networking platforms. He makes it a point to respond to comments and generally possesses an approachable and friendly disposition.

I received a copy of the 2013 release ‘Kitty Hawk’ from Joel and it has quickly climbed to the top of the list of my all-time favourite albums. 

  KITTY HAWK

• Release Date: October 29, 2013
• Label: Kringer Records
• Copyright: 2013 Kringer Records
• Total Length: 46:42

                                     Track Listing:
 1) The Man I Left Behind                7) Needles*
 2) Kitty Hawk                                     8) Night
 3) Holiday Heart                               9) Venin
 4) Open Wound                             10) Scot-Free    
 5) Stasis                                          11) Stand By Me
 6) I Wanna Run*                            12) Foot Falls

* - Features Maura Davis on vocals
Purchase here: iTunes     Website Store: Here

I was so impressed with the music and the always friendly interaction with Joel on Facebook, that I couldn't wait to share my thoughts of his release. It has spent countless hours in my cd player, on repeat in playlists, and I can confidently say that it’s a cd that continues to get better with each and every listen. Just when you think you've heard everything the songs have to offer, you hear it again and something else pops out at you. Be it a sound, lyric, or melody that grabs you and draws you into the story that the song is telling. It's for this reason, that you appreciate the music, and Joel as a musician all that more.
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In this age of technology, you can be selective when purchasing tracks online. Gone are the days of having to buy a cd for one or two tracks. This can be good and bad. The artist's vision is complete when the album is complete. For some to only give one or two tracks a chance, you sometimes miss out on what the artist was trying to convey. 'Kitty Hawk', as a disc, is one that I would highly recommend having all 12 songs. They play nicely with each other and deserve to be listened to with the rest of their trackmates.

Photo by: Ian Witlen

The Man I Left Behind

The opening track features a hypnotic melody with a trance like quality. Paired with mellifluous vocals, the song slowly builds and hooks the listener. It definitely provides an insight to what the rest of the album may be like. A great way to open the cd.

Kitty Hawk

The title track takes it up a notch.  An array of sounds, effects, vocals and loops. It offers the listener the opportunity to hear what Joel is capable of doing. A smorgasbord of unique sounds, it's just the tip of the iceberg. It was featured in the trailer for FIFA14, as well as the car racing video game The Crew.
It quickly became one of my favourites off the album.
​Watch Official Video: Kitty Hawk

Photo Byy: TLR Fotografie

Holiday Heart
​
At first listen, it had that vintage video game sound quirkiness to it...but that's a good thing. It's catchy, has a great vibe and all around just a fun song. It first appeared on the 'Brittle Branches EP' (2006). The 'Kitty Hawk' version, I personally find has more of an electronic feel to it. Not to mention a creative video to go along with it.
​Watch Official Video: Holiday Heart

Photo by: Chris Lacroix

Open Wound

Extremely catchy, melodic and hard not to keep on repeat. ​It's one of those songs, that long after playing it, you find yourself still humming it. The playful tempo has that 'bouncy' feel to it. Joel's brilliant lyrics tell a story, that some can decipher as a troubled relationship..a loss, broken heart, an open wound. 

On the deluxe release of 'Kitty Hawk' (2014), you can find the Odesza remix version of '​Open Wound'.

Watch video: Open Wound (Odesza Remix)

Photo by: Jack Looney Photography

Stasis

​​Another great song that contributes to the flow of the album. It has a bit of an ominous intro but soon the song's tempo increases and it fits well among the other tracks on the cd. I listen with amazement at the control Joel has with his voice. He can switch between his lower  and higher registers, with what appears to be with no effort at all. His tone and  pitch remain steady all while he delivers the words with emotion and confidence. Hearing these recorded songs make me imagine how much more electric it would be to hear them live.

Watch Official Video: Stasis - Live at Seattle E.M.P

Photo Courtesy: Ki:Theory

I Wanna Run

This is the first of two tracks on 'Kitty Hawk', that Maura Davis guests on. Maura is known for her work with the Indie rock band Denali also from Richmond, Virginia. 

The song showcases how Joel and Maura's vocals compliment each other beautifully. They both have a strong presence and the song is another hit to this listener. Another favourite of mine.
The striking video was directed and edited by Johnny Hugel.

Watch Official Video: I Wanna Run 

Photo Courtesty: Ki:Theory

Needles

Just when you couldn't get enough of the duo's sound, here's another track that showcases the collaboration between Joel and Maura. It begins as an enchanting piece of music, followed by vocals that you can't help be enraptured by. Like it's predecessor, 'I Wanna Run', the duo's tones blend magnificently and it's another powerful track on the album.
At the 2014 Richmond International Film Festival, 'Needles' took home the award for best video. The video's story was written, produced and directed by Amos McKay. Both Joel and Maura make appearances in the video.

​Watch Official Video: Needles

Photo Courtesy: Ki:Theory

Night

Just past the midway mark of 'Kitty Hawk', is the instrumental 'Night'. It's actually quite a relaxing combination of effects and sounds, and soon I was immersed in the track, which I found myself hitting repeat a couple times. It's one example of Joel's ability to manipulate various instruments to showcase his talents and abilities as a composer and recording artist. 

Venin

By this ninth track, you're fully absorbed into the sounds and feelings of the album. The passion and emotions are conveyed through lyrics that have an equally passionate soundtrack. 'Venin' takes you on a ride. What begins with a gentle climb to the top soon has the listener propelled into a high energy loop that keeps you there for a couple minutes before allowing you to catch your breath to finish the ride albeit wanting more. It's easy to hit repeat and take the ride again.
Watch Official Video: Venin

Photo By: Smile/Nickydigital.com

Scot-Free

​There's something about this track that just puts a smile on your face. You can't help but embrace your introduction to electronic music happy world. It may not be vocally rich like its neighboring tunes, but it proudly stands on its own and is far from being a filler track.
For a sneak peek into the energetic Joel Burleson/Ki:Theory show, check out a short clip featuring GoPro Hero 3+.
​Watch Official Video: Scot-Free

Photo By: Dan Trachtenberg

Stand By Me

As previously mentioned, this was the song that turned me onto Ki:Theory. Joel's remix of the '60s classic strays from the soulful bluesy sound of the original, but is effectively replaced with a well executed haunting version. It is quite simply the best remake of a song I've heard in a long time and because of this, I have mentioned to Joel that he needs to get his fingers on a Nine Inch Nails song and create yet another masterpiece. When describing the concept of the video, Joel's own words say it best: "we see one man’s seemingly normal night unravel into a chaotic disorienting mindfuck."

Watch Official Video: Stand By Me

TLR Fotografie

Foot Falls

While 'Stand By Me' brought me to 'Kitty Hawk', it's thanks to the other songs on the album that have kept me here. Finishing off the cd is a beautifully composed and performed instrumental. It's simple, no frills approach is a foolproof way to complete the listener's ride on a high note.

All the components of the song blend nicely together. I found myself getting lost in the track. It really is the album's piece de resistance in my opinion. Joel is an incredible musician, and this album is just one example of that.

Watch Official Video: Foot Falls - Live at Seattle E.M.P

In an attempt to be objective and find some areas that required improvement, the only thing that stands out, is that the cd came to an end after 46 minutes. I wanted to hear more, hence why it was often left on repeat to cycle through the songs over and over. While I admit, other cds often fall victim to the skip button, that was not the case with 'Kitty Hawk'. I wanted to hear the tracks, from start to finish and once all twelve tracks were done, I wanted to hear it again. There wasn't one song that I could imagine skipping over. The more you listen to it, the greater it becomes.

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It's a solid cd from the opening track 'The Man I Left Behind' to the closing instrumental 'Foot Falls'. A collection of high energy songs with mellow vocals and dynamic lyrics that are presented at the right level, not over the top, just enough to get you hooked. I think it encapsulates everything that Ki:Theory stands for. It takes the listener on a journey through what some may describe as electronic rock, indie, dubstep, techno, pop and rock. But quite honestly, it's difficult to put a label on genius. Joel's originality, dedication and just plain "keeping it real" shines through in his music. From the live footage, you can clearly see that here is a man who enjoys what he does and is more than happy to share his craft with an audience of fans. What is in store for his fans? Time will tell, but let's hope it is more of what we already love about his music.

Ki:Theory will be hitting the road. See all tour dates and ticket details here: On Tour

For more info check out Ki:Theory on:                                                      Music Links:
Official Website                                                                                             Official YouTube Channel
Official Facebook Page                                                                               Official iTunes Page
Official Twitter                                                                                                Ki:Theory on Spotify
Official Instagram​                                                                                          Ki:Theory on Soundcloud

Extra special thanks to Joel for being so generous and providing me with an autographed copy of 'Kitty Hawk'.  I look forward to future releases and hopefully attending a live show on your next visit to Ontario, Canada. *hint hint*

Also on KaoticNotes.com: Here

Hell N Back

Frank's Pasta & Grill
Sept 19, 2015

There are many AC/DC song references that you can use when describing your experiences at a 'Hell N Back' show. Last night in Cobourg was no exception.
To say the music was good and the music was loud would be an understatement. The boys had vibrations coming up from the floor...so much so that one overhead light fixture couldn't hold on any longer and shattered when it fell to the wooden floor.

It was five months earlier that we witnessed their first time performing at Frank's Pasta & Grill. (Read review here.) There was no doubt that they would repeat with the same intensity as before, but this time word was out that they were going to debut some new songs. Frank's filled up quickly with friends, family and fans. With their new banner hanging proudly behind them, they were set up and ready to deliver the straight up rock and roll that many in attendance had witnessed before.

Photo by: James Alcock

Once the gear was set up, Kyle changed into his suit an before long the show was about to start. Marty and Jeff's hypnotic bass and guitar, respectively, began to flow out of the speakers, followed by Garry's drums. Soon Kyle's lead guitar and James' vocals rounded out the lineup. The night kicked off with 'Livewire'. If that was any indication of what the rest of the night was going to be like, we were all in for a treat. Covering both eras seems to come easy for the guys. Impressively they can bounce back and forth between the two effortlessly. Whether you're in the mood for the classic Bon Scott songs or the more recent Brian Johnson tunes, 'Hell N Back' can satisfy any die hard AC/DC fan.

James interacted with the crowd throughout the night. He accepts the ambitious job of tackling both eras and gives it his all to deliver the songs. A charismatic frontman, climbing chairs, wandering throughout the crowd, it has always been quite entertaining watching him. Fronting a band where each musician is incredibly proficient in their role must make James' job much easier. You can also find James fronting his other band 'Rockin' a Hard Place'.

He may be hidden behind his drum kit but Garry's playing is anything but. The back beat of the band, his playing delivers power without being noisy. With creative flair he adds little things to the songs that take them to a higher level. May not be all flash and showmanship, but the power and strength of his playing keeps 'Hell N Back' going all night. When he's not keeping beat with the guys, he's regularly on the road playing with other cover acts. 

Garry's drumming may provide the tempo and feel, but Marty's bass locks it in. He's anything but a laid back bass player. You can usually see him with a smile and enjoying himself on stage. He carried the songs, both with his playing as well as taking to the mic for backing vocals. With a creative and propulsive style, Marty not only shines playing AC/DC but can also play many other songs. He gigs around the Toronto area with his other band 'Muffin'. The combination of the mid and low-rang percussion fills the sound and provides the other band members the rhythmic feel that they need.

The dynamics between rhythm and lead guitar is evident. Jeff's playing complements Kyle's playing and vice versa. What may appear to be repetitive playing, is quite the contrary. Jeff's playing intensifies as the song progresses. He kicks the songs up a notch and challenges his band members to keep up. 

He's also quite fascinating to watch. He can make you smile, laugh and enjoy yourself. A witty individual, you instantly find yourself with a permanent smile while watching him. He adopts that Malcolm Young stance and mannerisms while he's playing. Never one to shy away from the microphone, he contributes to the backing vocals along with bassist Marty.

Aside from AC/DC, Jeff also performs with his band 'Free With Admission'. They play gigs around his hometown of Bowmanville and cover a wide range of songs from a variety of artists. 

You can't have an AC/DC tribute band without an 'Angus'. 'Hell N Back' are blessed with one of the best. When it comes to the amazing guitar playing and showmanship that Angus Young is known for, Kyle assumes the role and doesn't disappoint. A guitar virtuoso beyond his years, he puts on the schoolboy suit and instantly is transformed into an energetic personality who is at the forefront feeding the audience's energy and excitement. 

He wandered throughout the venue, duck walked, stripped and recreated solos note for note. Hard not to notice that here's a young man who spends countless hours studying Angus and knows his material. It's indisputable that Kyle can have an incredible career in music.

The tightness of the band was evident throughout their two sets. There were even some surprises thrown in for good measure, including the debut of 'Shake Your Foundations' and 'Jailbreak'. Considering it was the first time they were playing these songs live, they pulled them off incredibly well. There was one more song they played for the first time last night. It is a personal favourite and was an ultimate surprise. I had previously suggested to the guys to learn it, and they kept it a secret the past little while. The slow bluesy number, with the ominous lyrics, from the 1979 iconic 'Highway to Hell' album..'Night Prowler'. It was definitely the highlight of the night for me. They did an amazing job, vocals were great, the guys played it perfectly. Looking forward to hearing them perform it again at a future show.

All night, the crowd enjoyed themselves and kept the dance floor busy. They ran through classics 'Shot Down in Flames', 'Hell's Bells', 'Back in Black', 'Highway to Hell' and many more. They closed the night with 'For Those About to Rock'.

There was such a great response, that the bar invited them back for another show in the near future.  

Photo by: Kyle Cyr

They also showed off their new shirts last night. The new logo was created by James' son. If you're interested in purchasing one you can contact the guys through their Facebook page.
You can also keep up to date with everything 'Hell N Back' on their official website. Bios, media, press, promotion, upcoming gigs and lots more. Check it out.

Once again, it was an amazing time at the show. These guys captivate their audiences and keep them rocking all night. With positive feedback and praise, it's pretty certain that you will see a lot more of them playing around Ontario.

I can't thank the guys enough for always putting on an amazing show and being so welcoming to their gigs. They are all professional, extremely talented and down to earth. A great group of guys and I'm honoured to call them friends. 
Thanks James, Kyle, Jeff, Marty and Garry!!

Photos from past shows can be found here:
Official Flickr

Gunslingers

Gunslingers
Lee's Palace - Toronto. ON
Aug. 29, 2015
~.:.~

Have you ever seen a tribute band that can transport you back in time to when you were in attendance at the original band's show? Last night at Lee's Palace in Toronto, it didn't feel like I was at the mid sized bar, it felt more like the first time seeing Guns N' Roses at the CNE Grandstand back in 1991.

The century old building was once a bank, then a movie theatre before being transformed to a dual level concert venue. It has played host to some of Canada's biggest names in the music business. Tonight the venue was treating everyone with a double dose of hard hitting rock and roll with 'Gunslingers' and 'For Those About to Rock' the latter being an amazing AC/DC tribute band who we've reviewed previously. (Review here)

Admittedly I was expecting to see five musicians adorned with costumes, wigs, accessories like bandannas and of course a top hat. What was presented instead, were four musicians, who didn't need to dress up to play GN'R's biggest hits. Toronto's Gunslingers carried the torch and paid respect to the band all while doing it their way.

Luis Assing (Bass) Abraxas Leon (Drums) Kelvin Lugo (Vocals/Rhythm Guitar) Francisco Meza (Lead Guitar) 

Since they didn't need to cater to the aesthetics, they focused more on the music, which was fantastic. Francisco's heavy guitar riffs, slide, solos, supported by the heavy, strong rhythm section by Luis and Abraxas, on bass and drums respectively, rounded off by Kelvin's vocals that exuded confidence, multi-ranged power that he could control and when required exercised great restraint without lowering the power. His rhythm guitar playing complemented the lead guitar and proved there was no need to have a fifth member. 'Gunslingers' did a fantastic job running through a setlist that would satisfy any real Gunner fan.

Covering songs from the iconic 'Appetite for Destruction', through to both 'Use Your Illusions', they took the audience on a trip back in time to when the '90s were ruled by Gn'R at the top of the charts. Notable tracks such as 'Welcome to the Jungle', 'Paradise City' and 'Sweet Child O' Mine' made an appearance towards the end of their set and generated the most excitement from the audience. Throwing in other heavy hitters such as 'Live and Let Die' and 'Patience' equally satisfied the fans. There was a little bit of something from every release. With the exception of 'Chinese Democracy'. 

Tackling 'Civil War', 'Don't Cry' and 'Knockin' on Heaven's Door' which included a sing-a-long with the audience, all proved that these guys were not fooling around. At one point, Kelvin put the guitar down for an amazing version of 'You're Crazy'. 

Watch video: 'You're Crazy'
Watch video: 'Welcome to the Jungle'

The four of them commanded the small stage at Lee's Palace with ease. At times exchanging smiles with each other, it appeared they were enjoying themselves up there.

Luis' bass playing was key in making the outfit work. He understands his instrument and how his playing influences the overall sound of the band. Maintaining the groove all while enhancing the band dynamics. Occasionally he would stroll over and share the mic with Francisco.

Assuming the role of lead guitar in any band, especially one that needs to recreate the presence that Slash had with Gn'R is no easy task. Francisco is fully capable of handling that responsibility and some. 

He wasn't grandstanding, more like demonstrating the vast talent and knowledge of the music that he chooses to play. He clearly knows the music and enjoys it. The impressive marathon guitar work during 'Estranged' was enthralling to watch.  

They say without a killer beat keeper the band can fall apart. Thankfully for 'Gunslingers', they have Abraxas to hold it all together behind the drum kit. Adorned with a Gn'R t-shirt and sunglasses, he kept the time and gave the music drive and excitement.

Some say the drums carry the band. They keep their bandmembers in 'line'. If that's true, then Abraxas did his job well. He kept it going, song after song, without missing a beat or throwing anyone off their game. He made it look easy.

Watch video: 'Mr. Brownstone'
Watch video: 'Sweet Child O' Mine'

Having the hard task of recreating the primal screams and ranges that Axl was known for in his prime, Kelvin approaches the microphone with a confidence and self assurance, however, without the arrogance. He doesn't imitate Axl or try to force the range of his voice. He sings the songs the best way he knows how...as himself.

At times I was wondering how he was going to deliver certain songs, the vocally challenging ones. It was incredible to see how he could maneuver between the low, tender verses of  'Patience' and 'Don't Cry', to the higher register lyrics of 'You Could Be Mine', 'I Used to Love Her' and 'My Michelle'.

Watch video: 'You Could Be Mine'
Watch video: 'I Used to Love Her'

I had the honour of speaking with him at the end of the night, and complimented him on their performance. I was appreciative of the fact that he wasn't trying to 'be' Axl, but instead used elements of his own singing to replicate the music. Being the first Gn'R tribute act I've seen, I have to say that I was not disappointed in the least.

Watch video: 'Rocket Queen'

Individually each member of 'Gunslingers' plays a key role within the band. Collectively, it just works...and it works very well.

They don't try to 'copy' any member of Gn'R, or claim to be the best. Instead, they utilize their own skills and talents, along with passion for the music and make it their own. They embrace the audience, encouraging sing-a-longs during 'Knockin' on Heaven's Door' and 'Paradise City'. They seemed to be very approachable off stage, shaking hands and speaking with the people at the bar.

Watch video: 'Paradise City'

To say that it was a rocking great night would be an understatement. The music was amazing and definitely rekindled my interest in Guns N' Roses and the music that I once enjoyed throughout the '90s.

The guys are hoping to get more shows within the Toronto area, as well as surrounding cities. I would highly recommend 'Gunslingers' to anyone who wants to go out for a night of authentic music and a trip back in time to when Guns N' Roses ruled the music charts.

Special thanks to Kelvin, Luis, Abraxas and Francisco for an amazing night of great music. You guys are truly fantastic musicians and I look forward to seeing another 'Gunslingers' show in the future.

If you want to know where Gunslingers are playing next, be sure to follow them on their various social media sites.

Official Gunslingers Facebook Page

Official Gunslingers YouTube Channel

Official Gunslingers ReverbNation

Official Gunslingers Twitter


View more photos at:

KaoticNotes Flickr


Video Playlist:

Official KaoticNotes YouTube Playlist