Admittedly, I'm not the biggest Slash fan. I have stated on the show many times that I think he is overated and has not released anything that relevant, since his split from G N' R, many moons ago. It wasn't until his solo release in 2010, that I got interested again. The record that he put out last year, featuring many guests vocalists, was the best thing the man had done in the past 20 years. With the success of his last release, Slash went on tour with Alterbridge frontman Miles Kennedy. I don't believe he could have made a better choice vocally. Miles is definitley one of the more talented rock vocalists out there today, and when teamed up with Slash, the two just seem to click. There is some serious chemistry there. Made in Stoke 24/7/11 is a document of that tour and shows how good these two are together. This package comes in two formats: either CD or CD/DVD.
Made in Stoke features songs from every facet of Slash's career. From G N' R to Velvet Revolver to the Snakepit, all bases are covered. This is a 2 - CD set containing 22 songs. The audio of the CD is spot on, giving you the concert experience, when cranked up. The performance on the CD was top notch, but for me, Kennedy stole the show. This guy can friggin sing. He nailed the G N' R tunes, but really shined on Slash's solo material. Songs like Beggars and Hangers On and Starlight really stood out for me. With Kennedy at the helm, it is the best Slash's solo material has ever sounded. Too bad these guys won't be in a band together past this project, they could make some killer music.
Bottom Line: Slash and company ripping it up live, but with Miles Kennedy stealing the show. G N' R fans will salivate to hear some of the classics performed live.
-Ragman is on the Nightrain.