I have to be honest, I feel a bit of a dick writing this, I mean, lets face it, its Duff Mckagan, he has been in two of the biggest rock n roll bands on the planet, instrumental in the 80’s sunset strip phenomenon, now back with his own project 'Loaded', this tour is in support of Black Stone Cherry, although tonight is a night off from that schedule so added a headlining slot at Leamington assembly rooms promoting the excellent album 'Sick’.


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Sitting backstage with Duff is an honour, and I soon realise that also he is a really nice bloke, I asked about guns n roses, any chance of a reunion ? Only to be met with a dry smile, then I broached the subject every rock fan wants to know, Velvet Revolvers replacement?, The only word on this matter is that there will be an announcement in the fall, very tight lipped.

Having purchased the EP ‘Wasted Heart’ last year when I reviewed him, I knew he had surrounded himself with quality musicians, the live set then was excellent, so I was eagerly looking forward tonight and to see how the band had matured, I wasn’t disappointed, ‘sleaze factory’ / IOU, / wasted heart (has to be my favourite, although yes, it’s the stones ), the live performance is classic rock mans treat, its good time rock n roll , the band ooze class, all backed up with GnR classic ‘ its so easy’, the show is light hearted, duff cracking jokes, changing instruments between Jeff on bass and Duff on rhythm.

Its great to see a tue legend of rock at such a intermit venue, it’s a shame that it was only a third full but this didn’t seem to bother the band, as I wrote before , I have a lot of time for this band, “sick” as an album is great, live, also great, as the first line said, its Duff McKagan, did you except it to be ****, I think not !!!


Also, id like to mention the support band which I have been following locally for a few years, ‘lost in Vegas’, all I can say for now is “watch this space! “ there will be a lot more to come on this band, I have interviews planned, recordings to be played, for now, check out, ://www.myspace.com/lostinvegasuk, let me know what you think?

Duff McKagans Loaded on MySpace Music - Free Streaming MP3s, Pictures & Music Videos

James Hope