On June 13th we went to a concert of Richie Kotzen, in the Metropool in Hengelo, the Netherlands. I actually haven't known Richie and his music that long. I was allowed to stand in for a bass player once and the repertoire she played also included a number of songs by Kotzen. I was flabbergasted by his guitar playing and voice, unbelievable what a musician. So I didn't have to think twice when I saw that he was giving a show in the Netherlands.
Richie started his career in the band Poison, a glam rock band from the 90s. In addition to his solo work, he also played in Mr. Big and he (still) plays in the power trio "The Winery Dogs". Together with Billy Sheehan and Mike Portnoy.
I am especially charmed by his solo work. He often has the same line-up in his band (drums, bass and guitar). Dylan Wilson has been playing bass with him for years, this year he had a different drummer. A young guy with so much energy, it was just great to see.
Dylan Wilson is in a class of his own, he has an amazing sound on a very old precision bass. He plays with a huge attack on his strings. We were right in front of him, and I can tell you........he was very loud :)
It started off great right away, the song "War Paint", my first introduction to his music. What an amazing song that is, and to see it live... goose bumps.
For the attentive listener, Dylan (bassist) was a bit off for a moment ;)
I was in good company again, namely my youngest son and my brother. My brother didn't really know what to expect but at the end of the evening he was just as enthusiastic as I was. The Metropool in Hengelo is a small venue which makes it, at least I think, even more special. We were right at the front right in front of the bass player. (For me of course completely fantastic)
(in this song, the bass is stunning, you can hear my surprising laughing).
I honestly think Richie is one of the best singers in his genre. That power in his voice, truly phenomenal. Not to mention his virtuosity on the guitar. He is also truly in a class of his own, by the way he plays without a pick, great to see and bizarre how fast he plays.
We attended another great concert, made some great memories with my son and brother, and of course scored another t-shirt.
Have a great day !!
Peter