Originally Posted by
thelastresort
I went to see Skynyrd at their 'final' UK show (until the money dries up presumably) last night. They were utterly exceptional. It was a pretty standard greatest hits set, which fortunately included my favourites (Ballad of Curtis Loew, Don't Ask Me No Questions and Tuesday's Gone) in addition to the tried and tested staples everyone goes along to hear (you know them...); even songs which I like but I'm not massive on (Workin' for MCA, That Smell) were enjoyable.
The band themselves, from JVZ's frontman skills to the eccentric keys courtesy of Peter Keys, the rhythm section and the Honkettes were on fire; but by far and away the most magical element though was the formidable trio of guitarists, particularly Medlocke and Rossington, leading the line. Seeing the four guitarists plus Johnny stand almost perfectly still next to each other whilst playing a rhythm break in Free Bird, mic stand adorned with the US flag and Ronnie's famous headwear, was as breathtaking and iconic as any other moment I have seen on stage in a concert; equally endearing was just how much of their set and screen show was dedicated to their fallen comrades, from the famous ones tragically taken in the 70s to those who played little more than a tour with them. Rickey Medlocke has long been my favourite member of Skynyrd and probably my favourite Southern Rock musician, so just to see him at all, complete with trademark tattoos and Gibson Explorer, was enough!
I will also give a shoutout to the two support acts, up-and-coming hard rockers Massive Wagons (from my home county for good measure!) and the most stellar of all British rock, Status Quo. Having seen some truly awful support acts in my time, it was wonderful to say both were worthy accompaniments to the main act.