Joe Bonamassa Tour De Force Royal Albert Hall
Joe Bonamassa, the renowned blues-rock guitarist, kicked off his Tour De Force at Royal Albert Hall on May 4, 2013. The event was a four-night stand in one of the world's most iconic music venues, where Bonamassa showcased his virtuosic guitar playing and soulful vocals. The shows were a sell-out success, and critics hailed them as some of his best performances to date.
The Setlist
The show's setlist drew from Bonamassa's extensive discography, featuring tracks from his solo albums, as well as covers of classic blues and rock songs. Some of the highlights included "Dust Bowl," "Sloe Gin," "Mountain Time," and "Blues Deluxe." Bonamassa also performed a few songs from his band Black Country Communion, which he formed with Glenn Hughes, Jason Bonham, and Derek Sherinian.
The Performances
Bonamassa's performances were electric and full of energy, as he wowed the audience with his guitar shredding and passionate vocals. He was backed by a top-notch band that included drummer Anton Fig, bassist Michael Rhodes, keyboardist Reese Wynans, and backing vocalists Mahalia Barnes and Juanita Tippins. The musicians played with precision and finesse, creating a tight sound that complemented Bonamassa's playing.
Throughout the shows, Bonamassa interacted with the audience, sharing stories about the songs and his inspirations. He also paid tribute to some of his heroes, such as Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimi Hendrix, by performing their songs. Bonamassa's humility and appreciation for the music were evident, and it added to the overall experience of the shows.
The Highlights
One of the highlights of the shows was the performance of "Sloe Gin," which showcased Bonamassa's emotional depth and ability to convey a story through his playing. Another standout moment was the cover of Led Zeppelin's "Tea for One," which featured Bonamassa's blistering guitar solo and Fig's thunderous drumming. The audience was also treated to a surprise guest appearance by legendary blues guitarist Eric Clapton, who joined Bonamassa on stage for a rendition of "Further on up the Road."
Overall, Joe Bonamassa's Tour De Force at Royal Albert Hall was a night to remember for fans of blues and rock music. The shows were a testament to his talent and dedication to the craft, and they solidified his position as one of the best guitarists in the world. If you ever get the chance to see him live, don't miss it!
