The legendary Guns N’ Roses guitarist knows what he is talking about in music terms. So when Slash rates a band and then a year later helps them with a sticky point on their US Tour, you have to take note. He’s definitely helped turn the spotlight even more on Cardinal Black. And the band isn't slow to pay that forward to help others themselves.
The band has been extra busy this year. May saw the release of their second album, Midnight At The Valencia. It’s a great listen full of their trademark songs. It’s bluesy, soulful, and features some great guitar from Chris Buck. No wonder Slash labelled the band as “Really f****** good” in an LA Times interview.
The band had a tour of North America lined up for the summer, but hit a potential stumbling block with their visa application. They needed a letter from an industry expert to back this up. A quick text from Buck to Slash secured the legend’s endorsement via a letter for the trip. It was a sellout headline tour, and the band went down a storm with the audiences there, thanks in part to Slash’s support.
Cardinal Black live tour hits Cambridge UK
Next up was the UK and Europe, with live dates kicking off in October. They are continuing to show that Slash was very right with another succession of top performances. I caught up with them again onstage at The Junction, Cambridge.
It’s just a few days over a year since they last appeared there. So what has changed? Well, in terms of band members, Sam Williams on bass has dropped out leaving Buck, Tom Hollister, and Adam Roberts as a trio. They have great backup with Sam Andrews on bass and Michael Blanchfield on keyboards for this tour and have lost none of the fun and energy they put into playing live.
The setlist hasn't changed much either. They draw fairly equally from their two albums. Last year's tour was to preview the new album; this one is more about celebrating its release. They kick off powerfully with “Rise Home” and “Falling.” A hefty version of “Keep On Running” follows, and by this point, the crowd is thoroughly warmed up, participating fully and ready for more.
The set doesn't disappoint, plenty of fully rocking numbers, some quieter and mellower moments. Blues, soul, and even a jazzy section as Blanchfield solos out on keyboards. Of course, there are superb solos from Buck, and Hollister's voice carries the crowd as always. There’s even a drum solo for Roberts added in now toward the close.
Due recognition as Buck and Hollister often take the praise. A key point at a Cardinal Black gig is always how much the band, as well as the crowd, is enjoying the moment. These guys always look like they are having fun rather than grinding through another night away from home. It was another brilliant show from them, and the audience lapped it up.
Cardinal Black pay it forward
What about that pay-it-forward element, though? Well, partway through, the band was joined onstage by their support artist. The excellent Nathan O’Regan joined in with Hollister on "Morning Light.” The two Celtic tiger voices came together very well. O’Regan’s earlier support set was also well received, and right at the end of that, he revealed that pay-it-forward moment that had helped him out.
He spoke of his record label dropping him and his first album, due out in September. The loss of their backing meant he couldn’t cover the cost of this tour as support and had to call Cardinal Black to explain why he had to back out.
The band instead drew him into their circle for travel, stay, and food on the tour, and there he is. Sounding superb and very grateful for such solid backing. An amazing pay-it-forward example from the band. Everyone needs a bit of help now and again.