Review and Photography by Manuela Langotsch for MPM
Jack J Hutchinson is a London based blues rock guitarist and songwriter. Described by Classic Rock Magazine as “a real rock contender”, he has toured internationally, sharing stages with acts such as ZZ Top, Bad Company, Kris Barras Band and Blackberry Smoke.
Jack’s latest album, ‘Battles‘, due for release 9th February 2024 was recorded at Momentum Studios in Plymouth and produced and co-written with Josiah J Manning (Kris Barras Band, Inglorious). “Working with Josiah was an eye-opener,” Jack enthuses. “Josiah encouraged me to write meaningful lyrics more upliftingly, and that’s what this new music is. It felt like unlocking who I am as an artist.
The Autumn UK Headline Tour started in Coulsdon and with the forthcoming album’s first single ‘Constellations’ in tow, it was a perfect opportunity for the audience to hear the new material Jack had written. The set list was a good mixture of new songs as well as songs from previous albums everyone loved plus a great cover of the Fleetwood Mac classic ‘Oh Well’.
Jack’s voice is raunchy, growly but also bluesy at times. His vocals combined with energetic guitar solos reminded me of 80s rock classics and that’s never a bad thing. It was obvious that he is heavily influenced by artists from that decade and for those old enough to remember, it was a decade that featured some groundbreaking songs, musicians and singers.
Jack is an incredible songwriter and storyteller, drawing from his own experiences and life stories.
The new song ‘Constellations’ hits you right from the get-go with powerful rock guitar and Jack’s impassioned vocals. The three-piece band featuring Phil Wilson on drums and Charlie Rachael Kay on bass, create a tsunami of sound, with driving underlying rhythm, plus Jack’s mighty power solo on lead guitar. Their live shows provide without a doubt an unbelievable experience for any rock music lover.
Two standing ovations and a queue at the merch table, it can be said that this musical evening was a massive success for Jack and his band.
I am looking forward to the release of the new album in the new year. This is definitely something to look forward to.
“Tough, immediate and rockin’. Hutchinson was born to sing soul and blues.” (Classic Rock Magazine)
Set List:
Don’t let the Fuckers
The Hammer Falls
Call of the Wild
Constellations
Running on Empty
Oh Well
Gunslinger
Hip Slickin’
Written in Stone
Rapture
Down by the River
Rock n Roll Damnation
Deal with the Devil
Days are Gone
