Slash, the iconic guitarist known for his work with Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver, kicked off his inaugural S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival with two electrifying performances showcasing a rich tapestry of blues and rock classics. The festival launched on July 5th, 2024, at the KettleHouse Amphitheater in Bonner, Montana, followed by a second show on July 6th at the Northern Quest Resort and Casino in Airway Heights, Washington. Adding to the excitement, Slash also treated fans to a shorter in-store performance at Seattle’s Easy Street Records on July 7th.
S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival: A Celebration of Unity Through Music
The S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival, an acronym for “Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Equality N’ Tolerance,” represents Slash’s vision of using music as a unifying force. In a recent interview, Slash expressed his desire to bridge divides and foster acceptance in a time of social and political polarization. He envisions the festival as a platform to celebrate diversity and inclusivity, bringing people together through their shared love of music. This sentiment resonates deeply within the festival’s diverse lineup, which promises to showcase a variety of rock and blues artists throughout its six-week run, including notable names like Warren Haynes, Samantha Fish, Eric Gales, ZZ Ward, Larkin Poe, and Jackie Venson. The North American tour is scheduled to conclude on August 17th in Grand Prairie, Texas.
A Deep Dive into the Setlist: Blues and Rock Classics Reimagined
The setlists for the opening weekend leaned heavily on tracks from Slash’s latest album, Orgy of the Damned, a star-studded collection of blues covers featuring a remarkable roster of guest artists, including Brian Johnson, Steven Tyler, Chris Robinson, Billy Gibbons, and Iggy Pop. Slash performed nearly every song from the album, treating fans to electrifying renditions of Howlin’ Wolf’s “Killing Floor,” Fleetwood Mac’s “Oh Well,” The Temptations’ “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” Elmore James’ “Shake Your Money Maker,” and his own instrumental masterpiece, “Metal Chestnut.”
Beyond the album tracks, Slash further captivated the audience with a dynamic range of covers, opening with Bukka White’s “Parchman Farm Blues,” delivering a powerful rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s “Stone Free,” and debuting his interpretation of Bob Dylan’s “It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry.” Adding to the magic of the Saturday performance, Myles Kennedy joined Slash on stage for a memorable collaboration on “Cross Road Blues.”
Slash’s Blues-Rock Journey: From Guns N’ Roses to Orgy of the Damned
Slash’s foray into the blues genre with Orgy of the Damned marks a significant milestone in his musical journey. The album is a testament to his deep appreciation for the blues, showcasing his virtuosity and his ability to infuse classic tracks with his signature style. This new project represents a departure from his hard rock roots, offering a fresh perspective on his musical talents.
alt text: Slash playing guitar.
Orgy of the Damned: A Star-Studded Celebration of Blues
Orgy of the Damned is more than just a covers album; it’s a collaborative project that brings together some of the biggest names in rock and blues. The album showcases Slash’s versatility as a musician, demonstrating his ability to seamlessly blend his signature sound with the rich traditions of the blues. The album’s diverse tracklist spans decades and styles, highlighting the enduring power of the blues.
The Evolution of Slash’s Solo Career
Slash’s solo career has been a constant exploration of musical boundaries, venturing beyond his iconic work with Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver. From his self-titled debut album featuring a revolving door of vocalists to the more focused collaborations with Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators, Slash has consistently demonstrated his commitment to pushing creative limits. Orgy of the Damned represents the latest chapter in this ongoing evolution, showcasing a renewed passion for the blues and a desire to explore new sonic landscapes.
A Look at Slash’s Solo Discography
Throughout his career, Slash has released a series of diverse and compelling solo albums. Each album offers a unique glimpse into his musical evolution, highlighting his growth as an artist and his willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles.
S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival: A Summer of Music and Unity
The S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival promises to be more than just a series of concerts; it’s a celebration of music’s power to bring people together. With its diverse lineup and its message of unity, the festival is poised to be a highlight of the summer concert season.
Conclusion: A Testament to the Power of Music
Slash’s S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival launch and the release of Orgy of the Damned represent a significant moment in his career. These endeavors showcase his enduring passion for music, his commitment to pushing creative boundaries, and his belief in the power of music to unite people.
FAQ: Your Questions About Slash and the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival Answered
Q: What does S.E.R.P.E.N.T. stand for?
A: S.E.R.P.E.N.T. stands for “Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Equality N’ Tolerance.”
Q: Who are some of the guest artists on Orgy of the Damned?
A: The album features Brian Johnson, Steven Tyler, Chris Robinson, Billy Gibbons, Iggy Pop, and many more.
Q: When does the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival tour conclude?
A: The North American tour is scheduled to end on August 17th in Grand Prairie, Texas.
Q: Where can I find more information about the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival?
A: Check out Slash’s official website and social media channels for the latest updates.
We encourage you to share your questions and thoughts in the comments below!
