Julie Bell's verdict: five stars
'Skynyrd Nation' hit Glasgow last night as the Southern rockers rolled into town to play the first night of the European leg of their world tour.
The night started with Nashville-based London three-piece Leogun, who kicked off proceedings with a confident mix of blues-tinged rock & roll and some gnarly guitar solos. A sound reminiscent of Jack White or Wolfmother, the band were the perfect opener, although it was clear to see the audience were there for one band only!
Coming onstage to rapturous applause, Lynyrd Skynyrd stood comfortably on stage, and with a history spanning 40+ years, who could blame them? The band engaged with the audience from the get-go, every person on stage knew their part to perfection. Johnny Van Zant is the perfect frontman, a commanding presence with a Saltire flag pinned to the front of his leather waistcoat. The band plunged into their guitar-heavy rodeo rock with melodies and harmonies so tight you could bounce a penny off them. The band were a well-oiled machine, switching from heavy rock & roll to emotional ballads.
Highlights included "The Needle and the Spoon" and "What's your name?", the latter showing that the band can hold a tune that keeps your attention until the last note.
Closing showstopper "Sweet Home Alabama" was outstanding, with a massive State flag unfurled behind them, the band still massively proud of their beginnings and their roots, the crowd screamed along with every word.
This was followed by a lengthy encore of fan-favourite "Free Bird", which featured a flag backdrop of an American Eagle, with the names of their dearly departed bandmates, friends and family from the 1977 plane crash that claimed their lives. I'd like to say there wasn't a dry eye in the house, but I couldn't see through my own tears to check. The song spanned into a 10 minute three-guitar solo which would give even the most seasoned headbanger whiplash.
In short - phenomenal!
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