Renowned for his time with Guns n’ Roses, Slash has, however, spent double the duration (14 years versus seven) with his band Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators. The unwieldy name, Slash, Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators, is the result of mixing the last of the guitar heroes with a well-regarded vocalist and their support group. To make it easier and more accurate, this review will refer to them simply as The Conspirators.
Their tour of Europe initiated at 3Arena in Dublin. Unlike other music acts who employ complex visual effects to augment their live performances, The Conspirators maintain simplicity in staging, with nothing more than a banner adorning the drum riser. The combination of illuminations and melodies take care of the rest.
The band’s set is comprised of songs from their four collaborative albums, including their latest work imaginatively named ‘4’, and notably, Slash’s critically recognised self-titled solo project from 2010.
The inclusion of a track never before performed live by the band may be due in part to its novelty. The song was delivered by bassist Todd Kearns, a well-regarded vocalist himself.
Significantly, the lead personality hit the stage donning a t-shirt of AC/DC without sleeves. Coincidentally, ‘Killing Floor’, his new single featuring AC/DC’s singer Brian Johnson, anticipates the release of his solo blues album in May.
Sporting his iconic top hat, a mass of black curls and shades, he exudes a timeless aura with a distinctively vintage approach to rock music. Slash, with his famed guitar solo, continued for over five minutes on Wicked Stone, showcasing his unique ability to maintain interest even after several extended minutes of performance.
The majority of The Conspirators’ set list consists of intense, hard-hitting rock music. However, when the pace slows, the music becomes even more captivating. Two particularly striking songs were Back to Cali from Slash’s solo album and Fill My World from his fourth album, both of which incited audiences to wave their mobile phone lights in unison. Myles Kennedy openly declared that Fill My World, an anthem-like ballad, was inspired by his pets.
Adding some variety to the night, the encore featured Slash exploring the pedal steel guitar for their rendition of Elton John’s Rocket Man, with the drummer transitioning to the keyboards, which was a favourable change.
The finale highlighted Anastasia from The Conspirators’ debut album Apocalyptic Love (2012), which matches, if not surpasses, any work Slash ever contributed to as a member of Guns N’ Roses.
Rhythm guitarist of The Conspirators’, Frank Sidoris, who played guitar for Mammoth WVH as well, deserves recognition. He shares the stage with Eddie Van Halen’s son and the frontman of Mammoth WVH, Wolfgang Van Halen. With his well-known music lineage, it was unsurprising that Mammoth WVH was extremely well received by the vast crowd.