Live Review: Smith/Kotzen - Wolverhampton
3rd March 2022
Support: The Dust Coda, Buckets Rebel Heart
Words & Photos: Tim Finch
KK’s Steel Mill in Wolverhampton is quickly becoming the place to be as an Iron Maiden fan. In the last few months current Maiden bassist Steve Harris and former Maiden members Blaze Bayley and Doug Sampson have all played the venue. This evening it plays host to the next of the Iron Maiden alumni in Adrian Smith. His recent album with Richie Kotzen (of The Winery Dogs, Poison, Mr. Big) has received critical acclaim, and now the duo tour the UK off the back of it.
The Steel Mill is in it’s biggest configuration tonight as plenty of fans are expected and the house fills up nicely in time for Buckets Rebel Heart to take to the stage. The classic British rock band feature ex-Bad Company guitarist Dave 'Bucket' Colwell. Whilst the band is obviously built around Bucket’s guitar work, it is actually the vocal talents of Paul Manzi (Cats In Space, The Sweet) which steel the show.
Main support are the ever exciting The Dust Coda, a band who have been at the forefront of the New Wave of Classic Rock movement for a number of years now. Last years ‘Mojo Skyline’ album rocketed them up the charts and into the general consciousness, thanks to some regular airplay on Planet Rock. The live show matches their upbeat rock recordings, heavy as hell, blues influenced rock and roll. Front man John Drake reminds me of a young Joe Cocker both vocally and in terms of stage presence. Adam Mackie on guitars pulls off some wonderful blues laden solos and drummer Scott shows he's technically superb both on his drum riser and as a showman.
It's left to Smith and Kotzen to close the night and by the time they take to the stage, KK’s Steel Mill is packed and there is an air of anticipation, the fans ready and waiting. As the band kick off their set with ‘Taking My Chances’ and ‘Better Days’ what is evident is just how good Adrian Smith’s singing voice is. I would go as far to say better than modern day Bruce (although maybe not as good as Bruce in his prime).
Throughout their set they create a rock soundscape like none other, enthralling the fans, it's high on energy and a joy to behold. The pair, backed by Kotzen’s wife Julia Lage on bass, romp through their set, but it’s obvious there are fans of the duos other works in the house. As the encore kicks in we are treated to Kotzen solo effort ‘You Can't Save Me‘ and Iron Maiden Classic ‘Wasted Years’. Enough to ensure everyone in attendance went home very happy indeed!
All photo credits: Tim Finch Photography
