Classic rock enthusiasts were in for a treat last night (Tuesday, January 21) at De Montfort Hall, as the high-voltage Classic Rock Show kicked off its massive European tour.
From the very first note, the crowd was electrified by the raw power of the performances, as a talented ensemble delivered classic rock anthems with boundless energy. Each member showcased their vocal prowess, bringing to life a range of timeless hits that had the audience on their feet.
Highlights of the evening included raucous renditions of AC/DC’s ‘Hells Bells,’ Whitesnake’s ‘Here I Go Again,’ and the crowd-pleasing Queen anthem, ‘Somebody to Love.’ But the true showstopper came when the band tackled Meat Loaf’s epic ‘Bat Out of Hell.’ The demanding 9-and-a-half-minute track, a true test of vocal endurance, was performed with astonishing power and precision, raising the roof of De Montfort Hall.
Picture credit: Pukaar News
The standout vocal performance came from Rudy Cardenas, whose ability to sustain powerful, soaring notes while commanding the stage was nothing short of breathtaking. His dynamic showmanship added to the spectacle, as he flawlessly navigated the challenges of such a challenging piece.
But it was Jesse Smith who truly captivated my attention. A rock-and-roll force through and through, Smith oozed charisma with every move, delivering blistering vocals on tracks like ‘Hells Bells’ and ‘Somebody to Love.’ Clad in leather trousers and sporting a wild, untamed mane of rock-star hair, he owned the stage with a primal energy and an undeniable passion that was impossible to ignore. Watching him perform felt like witnessing the very essence of rock and roll, as he gave the crowd a masterclass in how to rock with heart and soul.
Picture credit: Classic Rock Show
Another standout moment came early in the show, when Rudy Cardenas and Jess Harwood teamed up for a stunning duet of Stevie Nicks and Tom Petty’s ‘Stop Dragging My Heart Around.’ The chemistry between the two was undeniable, with their voices blending effortlessly, and the emotional depth of their performance was palpable.
While Jess Harwood did showcase her talents throughout the evening, I couldn’t help but wish for more fiery solo moments from her. Her voice is a powerful instrument, and I believe the set would have been even more electrifying with a bit more of her raw energy.
And of course, no classic rock show would be complete without some mind-blowing guitar solos. The band’s guitarists did not disappoint, particularly James Cole, who delivered a stunning performance of Gary Moore’s ‘Still Got the Blues.’ Bravo!
A special mention must also go to Leicester’s own Tim Brown, the drummer whose thunderous beats added a fierce, unrelenting backbone to the show. At one point, the intensity of the musicianship seemed so powerful, I honestly thought the venue might explode with the sheer force of it all.
Picture credit: Classic Rock Show
It was clear that the musicians on stage were not only masters of their craft but deeply passionate about the music they were performing. Playing these iconic songs is a privilege for them, and they did them justice with a performance that left the audience roaring for more.
An epic, adrenaline-pumping spectacle that is not to be missed! If you have the chance to catch the Classic Rock Show on their European tour, do it—this is a night of rock and roll excellence you’ll never forget.
For more information and tour dates, visit: https://theclassicrockshow.com/
By Louise Steel
