Black Stone Cherry / The Darkness / Danko Jones
Leeds First Direct Arena
Transatlantic tourmates bring their big rock show to West Yorkshire.
For all their differences – be it geographical, idiosyncratic or stylistic – opposites really do attract in the case of tonight’s co-headliners. Joining forces from either side of the pond, what matters here is that both Black Stone Cherry – Kentucky’s southernrock kings – and The Darkness – Britain’s modern-day classic-rock royalty – worship at the altar of the almighty guitar riff. And not many do it better.
The plum job of kicking things off goes to Danko Jones, and a healthy audience is already present. With many presumably heading here straight from work, it’s apt that these early birds are treated to the sort of rebellious, high-voltage rock that makes you want to flip your desk. But while the trio are 25-year road veterans, they struggle to leave a lasting impression in a fast 30 minutes. It doesn’t help that John Calabrese’s bass keeps making the most horrific sound – aharsh, sonorous swelling that seems to peak and fade on a loop. Still touring
