Take the aptly named ‘Electrifying’; Montalban’s playing is so expressive, so melodic, you might almost forget you’re listening to a 10-minute instrumental. Bruno Pint’s pulsing bass underpins a solid riff interspersed with memorable guitar motifs that develop, change and grow. There’s a wonderful moment around the six-minute mark, a change of pace that surprises in the best possible way. It’s epic stuff, and does plenty to justify Miguel’s status as ‘one of the greatest young guitarists around’ (just ask Zakk Wylde!).
If you need some vocals and a singalong chorus, ‘Wander’ has you covered. Released as the debut single by the band, the funky riff and insistent groove will have you hooked. But these Southern Vultures are anything but predictable, and even the more concise tracks have a tendency towards the progressive; ‘Wander’ temporarily drops away to something more delicate, restrained, before that riff returns to thrill once again. If you prefer your rock a little more direct, ‘Go Off the Rails’ is as close as it gets, upbeat and enjoyable, the infectious sound of a band having a good time. ‘Let’s Try’ is another belter, there’s a real sense of drama in the choruses that seemingly rise with increasing intensity.
A cover of ‘Tobacco Road’ leads the set into harder, bluesier territory, where it remains through the Southern Vultures own ‘True Lies’ and ‘Last Chance’; the latter conjuring the spirit of Gary Moore with wailing guitar punctuating Montalban’s vocal laments. Though, like perhaps not the strongest singer, Chilean born Miguel has a unique character to his voice and the passion in his delivery is evident. He is warm and likeable in his interactions with the audience and even attempts a bit of call and response during ‘Baby That’s Alright’. This track also provides an opportunity for each of the Southern Vultures to take the spotlight; Credit to drummer Edoardo Marriotti, bassist Bruno Pint and rhythm guitarist Marc Hayward who provide the foundations that allow Montalban’s guitar mastery to really soar.
The Hendrix comparison is an obvious one to make, but Montalban is clearly happy to embrace it, featuring a cover of ‘Hey Joe’ in this live set. The track, while never light in subject matter, seems somehow darker still, the menacing introduction leading into an extensive version of this much-loved classic. The mood continues into Disorder, an aggressive yet atmospheric rocker that serves as the grand finale, again taking the listener on a journey which rises and falls but is never anything less than exciting.
