Robert Jon & The Wreck Set Rock City Ablaze With A Smoking Blues Rock Show

December 2, 2024 rocknews

Powerful Blues Rock: Robert Jon & The Wreck Blow the Roof Off Rock City, Nottingham

On a crisp Nottingham evening, Rock City became the epicenter of an explosive blues rock extravaganza as Robert Jon & The Wreck stormed the stage. For those who had caught their intimate gig at the Rescue Rooms, this larger-than-life performance was a resounding affirmation of the band’s unstoppable ascent and relentless dedication to their craft.

Kicking off with a bang, “Pain No More” set the tone for a night brimming with high-octane energy. The crowd, a dynamic mix of long-time devotees and curious newcomers, was immediately hooked. Tracks from their latest album, Red Moon Rising, dominated the setlist, with “Rager” and “Hold On” delivering raw power and swagger that had the audience in a fever pitch.

As the band eased into “Red Moon Rising” and “Gold,” the atmosphere shifted to a more introspective vibe. “Point of View,” a melancholy masterpiece, had the audience swaying in sync, lost in its haunting melody.

Harry James took center stage with his searing solos, particularly on “Don’t Let Me Go.” His virtuosity was on full display, each riff and lick dripping with emotion. James commanded attention, his fingers dancing over the fretboard, drawing the crowd into his six-string sorcery.

The rhythm section was equally mesmerising. Andrew Espantman’s drum solo midway through the set was a thunderous spectacle, showcasing his impeccable timing and flair. Warren Murrel’s bass lines provided a solid backbone, while James Abernathie’s keyboard wizardry added rich, textured layers to the band’s sound, perfectly complementing Robert Jon’s powerful vocals.

At one point, Robert Jon playfully struggled to pronounce “Nottingham,” to the delight of the audience. He also mentioned that tonights crowd was the largest of the tour, and there wasn’t a better place than Rock City to end it. The connection between the band and the audience was undeniable, making the night even more special.

“Oh Miss Carolina” provided one of the night’s standout moments, as the band stopped playing mid song to let the crowd carry on singing the chorus. The rendition was nothing short of amazing, with house lights illuminating the floor and arms reaching up into the air, creating a magical atmosphere.

“Ballad of a Broken Hearted Man” struck a particularly poignant chord, with its heartfelt delivery moving the crowd. This song brought the main set to a powerful close, encapsulating the band’s raw and soulful essence.

The applause was thunderous as the band momentarily left the stage, only to return for an encore that fans knew would be unforgettable.

The encore began with “Shine a Light on Me,” which had the floor rocking. Each of the musicians took turns performing their solos, showcasing their individual talents to the crowd’s delight. The encore also included “Cold Night,” featuring an epic instrumental that had the crowd hooked. There wasn’t a better place to be, especially when an inflatable eyeball was punted out to the audience by Espantman, adding a touch of playful chaos to the night.

Robert Jon & The Wreck demonstrated why they are revered as one of the hardest-working bands in the industry. Their set was a masterclass in musicianship and showmanship, each member bringing their A-game. As the final notes echoed through Rock City, it was clear this was more than a concert—it was an experience, a cracker of a gig to start to the festive season with a bang!

The American blues rockers left Nottingham fans buzzing, their impeccable sound and heartfelt performances reflecting their tireless touring and dedication. Robert Jon & The Wreck are a band on the rise, their journey far from over. Catch them on their spring 2025 tour for a night of unforgettable rock and roll.