Review: Richie Kotzen

Islington Assembly Hall (July 13^th, 2024)

Reviewer / Photographer Manuela Langotsch

Having been a fan since his Mr. Big days in the late Nineties/early Noughties, I was very excited to finally see American guitarist & singer/songwriter Richie Kotzen in the flesh. His London performance marked the end of his 2024 UK/Europe tour and was a memorable event that showcased his immense talent and versatility as a musician. Known also for his work with bands like Poison and most recently The Winery Dogs, he brought his solo material to life with a dynamic setlist that spanned his extensive 30+ years career. His dynamic vocal style and masterful guitar work, delivered a set that blended rock, blues, and soul seamlessly.

The set kicked off at 8:30pm and ran until the venue’s music curfew at 11pm, offering fans nearly two and a half hours of high-energy rock and blues. Highlights included ‘War Paint‘, which featured some of his most impressive guitar solos of the night, and ‘Cheap Shots‘, his latest single, a fantastically powerful rock track. Audience reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with many praising Kotzen’s flawless execution of complex guitar techniques. Playing these without a plectrum is no easy task and musicians in the crowd found it mind blowing.

Kotzen’s band consisted of bass player Dylan Wilson and Newcastle born but now LA based Bumblefoot drummer Kyle Hughes, who was hired for the European/UK leg of the tour. Their chemistry on stage was obvious to see with Kotzen very happy to share the limelight with them.

But the uber highlight of the evening was no doubt when Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith joined Kotzen on stage and together they performed The Yardbirds classic ‘Shapes Of Things’. This was a very special moment for everyone to witness. In 2020/21 they collaborated on the project Smith/Kotzen and released the 9 track studio album ‘Smith/Kotzen’ and the 4 track EP ‘Better Days’ and it was clear to see that they enjoyed each other’s company on stage. There were some technical issues with Adrian’s amp but being the pro that he is, this didn’t faze him and once sorted, he carried on delivering a magnificent end of the show.

Those who were hoping to hear some Mr. Big or Winery Dogs songs were sadly left disappointed, but nevertheless the evening was a fantastic musical experience and I am glad I didn’t miss it.

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