 air, Bristol’s 02 is packed to the gills with expectant rockers. The crowd are suitably badly behaved, and […] "'Pin It")
REVIEW: KYUSS LIVES! AT BRISTOL 02 ACADEMY (06/04/11)
Much controversy has surrounded the reunion of former Kyuss members for the Kyuss Lives! tour, but despite the fluctuating line up and a distinctly anti former band member Josh Homme (now of Queens of the Stone Age) air, Bristol’s 02 is packed to the gills with expectant rockers.
The crowd are suitably badly behaved, and the sphincters of the 02’s security clench, as plastic beakers are merrily thrown around, the weak are shoved mercilessly out of the path of those surging to the hefty mosh pit and even some of the largest of audience members pass out in the sweltering conditions. There is also a constant reminder of the anti throwing and crowd surfing rules as several participants are ejected brusquely from the arena. One to remember revellers.
Kyuss plough through the set relentlessly from ‘One Inch Man’ to ‘Freedom Run’, the guitar virtuosity singing out from John Garcia’s gravelly vocal. The desert rock status is confirmed in songs such as ‘Supa Scoopa and Mighty Scoop’ with all its false endings, bass heavy numbers thundering along, driven by the astounding performance of Nick Oliveri, who has a beard so resplendent that Michael Eavis would weep with jealousy: it is as thick and solid as his playing.
‘Fatso Forgetso’ writhes with bitterness and causes a real crowd surge, a clear favourite of the faithful masses and group alike, unashamed old school stoner rock. ‘Spaceship Landing’ runs to epic proportions allowing those on the edge of collapse some respite at least, its lyrics providing a release for Garcia who throws himself into this track in particular.
The band leave the stage for a prolonged period, whipping up the throng into a bout of stomping and Jeering rare for this venue, and return to play more of a second half than an encore. The show hits the two hour mark happily providing the audience with most of the material from ‘Muchos Gracias: Kyuss Greatest Hits’ which seems to be exactly what was required. ‘100’ stands as a particular highlight, with its frantic pace and hammering drums from a gig that will be as unforgettable for all those who attended as it was unlikely to ever even happen. A real event.
Words: Helen Brown
