Welcome to the S.E.R.P.E.N.T Festival, Slash’s very own blues extravaganza. This extraordinary endeavor brings together blues legends like Kingfish, Samantha Fish, Keb’ Mo, Warren Haynes, Eric Gales, Larkin Poe, and an array of blues veterans, creating an unforgettable celebration of soulful melodies and electrifying performances.
The S.E.R.P.E.N.T Festival isn’t just about music; it’s about making a difference. It’s an anagram that stands for Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality, N’, Tolerance. Through partnerships with various charities, every ticket sold contributes to these meaningful causes, promoting peace, equality, and tolerance in our communities.
As you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the festival, you’ll feel the energy crackling in the air, uniting fans from all walks of life in a shared love for the blues. Each performance is a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and uplift.
The first of the bands was American gospel band led by pedal steel guitarist Robert Randolph . Fans have described the band as one with an “irresistible rock ‘n’ roll swagger”. Rolling Stone included Randolph upon their list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. The band has released six studio albums and has been Grammy nominated four times.
From the moment Robert Randolph sat down at his pedal steel guitar, it was clear the night would be special. Opening with the high-energy “Travelin’ Shoes,” the band immediately had the crowd on their feet, clapping and dancing along. Randolph’s mastery of the pedal steel is nothing short of virtuosic—his fingers danced across the strings, creating a sound that was both soulful and searing.
The next band for the evening was Zsuzsanna Eva Ward known professionally as ZZ Ward, is an American singer-songwriter. She released her debut EP, Criminal, on May 8, 2012. Her debut album, Till the Casket Drops, was released on October 16, 2012. “Put the Gun Down”, her first single, broke into the top 10 on the AAA radio chart on February 3, 2013, staying there for 10 weeks, and also broke into the top 40 on the Billboard Alternative chart. On March 2, 2017, Ward released the single “The Deep” (featuring Joey Purp). Her second studio album, The Storm, was released on June 30, 2017, peaking at number 1 on the Billboard Blues Albums Chart in July 2017. Her third studio album, Dirty Shine was released independently on September 8, 2023 to critical acclaim ZZ Ward.
As the lights dimmed and the first chords of ” My Baby Left Me” echoed through the venue, the crowd erupted in applause, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable night. Ward’s voice cut through the room with a raw intensity, filled with emotion and grit. Her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability in her music was on full display, making every song feel deeply personal and resonant.
Backed by a tight-knit band, ZZ Ward seamlessly blended genres throughout her set, moving effortlessly from bluesy ballads to hard-hitting rock anthems. Tracks like “Cannonball” and “Mother” showcased her songwriting prowess, with lyrics that tell stories of love, loss, and resilience.
Her blend of blues, rock, and soul, combined with her powerful stage presence, made for a concert that was both emotionally charged and musically exhilarating. For fans of Ward and newcomers alike, it was a night that left a lasting impression, showcasing the undeniable talent of one of today’s most compelling artists.
The Next performer of the night was Kevin Roosevelt Moore known as Keb’ Mo’, is an American blues musician. He is a singer, guitarist and songwriter, living in Nashville, Tennessee. His post-modern blues style is influenced by many eras and genres, including folk, rock, jazz, pop and country. The moniker “Keb Mo” was coined by his original drummer, Quentin Dennard, and picked up by his record label as a “street talk” abbreviation of his given name. Keb’ Mo’ uses several types of guitars, including electric guitars, acoustic guitars and resonator guitars. He has a preference for red guitars,
The evening began with the gentle strumming of his guitar as he opened with “Somebody Hurt You” instantly showcasing his signature blend of blues, folk, and roots music. His warm, mellow voice filled the venue, resonating with the kind of authenticity that can only come from a seasoned musician who has lived and breathed the blues.
Throughout the night, Keb’ Mo’ connected with the audience not only through his music but also through his storytelling. He shared anecdotes about the inspiration behind his songs, offering glimpses into his life and the experiences that have shaped his artistry. His humor and humility shone through, making the concert feel like a gathering of friends rather than a typical performance.
The concert reached its peak with “Standing At The Station,” a lively, upbeat tune that had the entire venue clapping and swaying along. Keb’ Mo’ encouraged audience participation, creating a joyful, communal vibe that spread throughout the room.
As the night came to a close, Keb’ Mo’ performed “I Remember You,” a song that encapsulates his philosophy of life and music. The audience sang along, creating a powerful, shared moment that felt both celebratory and reflective.
Finally, the band everyone was waiting for was ready to hit the stage. Saul Hudson, known professionally as Slash, is a British-American musician, known as the lead guitarist of the hard rock band Guns N’ Roses, with whom he achieved worldwide success in the late 1980s and mid 1990s. Slash has received critical acclaim and is considered one of the greatest guitarists in history.
The S.E.R.P.E.N.T Festival, known for its eclectic lineup and intense atmosphere, was the perfect stage for Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators to deliver a blistering set. Amidst the festival’s vibrant chaos, Slash and his band brought the kind of raw energy and precision that only comes from years of playing together, creating a performance that was nothing short of legendary.
As the sun began to set and the crowd buzzed with anticipation, the iconic opening riff of “Parchman Farm Blues” echoed through the venue, signaling the start of what would be an unforgettable show. Slash, in his trademark top hat and sunglasses, took center stage, his guitar work as sharp and electrifying as ever. Myles Kennedy’s powerful vocals cut through the evening air, captivating the massive audience from the very first note.
The band wasted no time in delivering hit after hit, seamlessly blending songs from their own catalog with nods to Slash’s storied past. Slash’s guitar solos were a masterclass in rock musicianship, each one more intense and intricate than the last, while Kennedy’s dynamic stage presence kept the energy at a fever pitch.
The festival setting added an extra layer of intensity to the performance, with the massive stage production, dazzling light displays, amplifying the band’s already electrifying presence. The outdoor environment seemed to fuel the band, with each song building on the energy of the last.
The set closed with “It Takes A Lot to Laugh, It Takes A Train To Cry” a song that had the entire festival grounds erupting in cheers, fists pumping in the air. Their last song “Shake Your Money Maker,” an Elmer James cover really got the crowd singing and dancing and wanting more.
The band’s performance was tight and explosive, bringing the night to a perfect climax. As the final notes rang out and the stage lights dimmed, the crowd’s applause and cheers echoed long after the band had left the stage.
Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators delivered a performance at S.E.R.P.E.N.T Festival that was nothing short of spectacular. Their blend of technical skill, stage presence, and raw energy made for a concert experience that was as exhilarating as it was memorable. For fans of rock and roll, this was a night that captured the very essence of the genre, leaving everyone in attendance with a lasting impression of why Slash remains one of rock’s most enduring icons.
Slash
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Keb’Mo’
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ZZ Ward
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