Review: Barns Courtney & The Struts, Special Guest: James Bruner

The Roundhouse, London (October 6^th, 2024)

Reviewer / Photographer: Manuela Langotsch

Nashville based James Bruner‘s performance during his London gig made a strong impression. As part of a line-up featuring Barns Courtney and The Struts, Bruner’s set brought a refreshing dynamism to the night. Known for his raw energy and ability to captivate audiences, his performance was marked by bold vocals and confident stage presence. While not as widely known as his tour mates, Bruner held his own with a vibrant set that showed off his versatility and passion for Rock ‘n’ Roll. The audience noted his ability to blend in smoothly with the Glam Rock atmosphere of the night and bring his own unique flair to the crowd.

It’s somehow unusual to have two bands headlining but it has become more and more the norm to do that. I love it when two sets of fans come together watching their favourite bands of the same or similar genre.

It had been 5 years since Barns Courtney last graced a London stage, but his dynamic performance filled with his signature blend of fiery energy and showmanship has certainly not been forgotten. His raw vocals and infectious energy – close your eyes and you might have thought Steven Tyler is screaming through the mike – did not disappoint, delivering powerful renditions of his hits ‘Fire‘ and ‘99‘. My personal favourite ‘Supernatural‘ (also the name of his latest album), with Courtney playing also the electric guitar, had us all dancing and rocking out. Fabulous! Whether it’s jumping on the drum set and drumming away, getting on top of speakers or swinging his microphone, it is a joy to watch this young man enjoy himself on stage and give it his all. From the first moment he hit the stage until the last second, he did not stand still.

Courtney’s interaction with the audience was equally captivating, creating a strong connection that made the performance feel immersive. He took a fan’s mobile phone to film the crowd and band on stage. Nothing seems to be off limits. Having fun with the audience is the only thing on his mind. And when you are near the front of the stage (not me) and there is no sign anywhere saying ‘No crowd surfing’, then you know what’s gonna happen and what’s expected of you. Courtney couldn’t wait to get in there and be closer to his fans.

When he chatted to the audience between songs, it became clear that he is not taking his success for granted. He remembers selling cigarettes and handing out free samples of Lipton Ice tea in Camden to make ends meet all these years ago. He is so grateful to be able to live his dream life now and he knows it’s all down to his fans.

This UK born singer/songwriter has quickly become one of my favourite artists, musically and performance wise. I just love his voice and the new album ‘Supernatural‘ is just incredible. I have no doubt this is just the beginning for this young man and he will go on to bigger and better things. I can’t wait to see what’s next in store for him.

A small changeover and everyone is waiting for the second headliner of the night. The Struts, a UK Rock band formed in Derby in 2012, is known for delivering a thrilling and theatrical performance.

With a photograph of London’s Big Ben as the backdrop, frontman Luke Spiller captivated the crowd with his dynamic presence, reminiscent of iconic glam rockers like Freddie Mercury and David Lee Roth. Kicking off with ‘Primadonna Like Me‘, Spiller’s high-energy performance set the tone for the night, with audience participation driving the excitement to new heights.

Tracks like ‘Too Good At Raising Hell‘ and ‘Pretty Vicious‘ stood out, as did the band’s playful crowd interactions, including a left-vs-right sing-off. The night was filled with classic rock energy, proving why The Struts continue to hold their own in the modern rock scene.

Spiller is so proud of their latest album ‘Pretty Vicious’ that he brings out and introduces the cover girl whose legs can be admired on the album cover. Not sure this was planned or Spiller just needed a breather, but it was nevertheless something different.

The Struts’ live shows are a must-see, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and fresh, exuberant rock. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, the atmosphere they create is undeniably electric. I will definitely be back if I can to see these guys perform again, but for now listening to their recorded music is just as good!

The combination of Barns Courtney‘s explosive performance and the glam rock theatrics of The Struts made the night at The Roundhouse a memorable experience for fans of high-octane live music.

(click on photos to enlarge)

James Bruner: