Review & Photography by Manny Manson for MPM
Rock City, Nottingham, is no stranger to hosting musical heavyweights, and tonight it seemed ready to roar, as I approached this great venue, the queue was already snaking up Talbot rd.
Tonight is a Southern-style doubleheader that brings an amalgam of soul, blues, and rock, together under one roof. First on the undercard is Eddie 9V, the bluesman from Georgia whose raw talent and unmistakable charisma have been turning heads. Headlining, we have Robert Jon & The Wreck, these guys from Southern California are all set to bring their blend of rock and soul to the stage, ensuring a night packed with energy and some great heartfelt music.
Eddie 9V, born Mason Brooks Kelly, is a modern torchbearer of the blues with a sound steeped in the traditions of the American South. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Eddie’s music merges the grit and groove of classic blues with the funk and soul influences of the ’60s and ’70s. With his charismatic stage presence, searing guitar work, and laid-back yet commanding vocal delivery, Eddie has quickly earned his place as one of the most exciting new voices in contemporary blues.
Eddie 9V’s sound is an intoxicating blend of swampy blues, Southern rock, and vintage soul. His gritty guitar tone harks back to legends like Albert King and Freddie King, while his soulful vocal delivery often draws comparisons to artists like Delbert McClinton and Otis Redding. What sets Eddie apart is his ability to blend this retro vibe with a modern, funky edge, reminiscent of acts like JJ Grey & Mofro.
Lyrically, Eddie draws from the heart, delivering tales of heartbreak, redemption, and Southern living with humor and grit. His songs are packed with groove-heavy rhythms, smoky organ lines, and raw guitar licks that feel both timeless and fresh. Whether he’s belting out a high-energy barn burner or easing into a slow, soulful ballad, Eddie’s music brims with authenticity.
Eddie 9V’s influences are as diverse as his sound. Growing up, he absorbed the raw power of blues icons like Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf, the funk-driven grooves of Sly & the Family Stone, and the melodic sensibilities of Ray Charles. Southern rock legends like the Allman Brothers Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd also left their mark, as did the soul-stirring sounds of Stax Records artists like Booker T. & the M.G.’s.
His modern sensibilities owe much to contemporary artists like Gary Clark Jr., Marcus King, and Derek Trucks, but Eddie manages to carve out his own distinct voice, rooted firmly in tradition yet always pushing forward.
Eddie released his debut album, Left My Soul in Memphis, in 2019, introducing the world to his raw, soulful sound. The album features stripped-down, no-frills blues tracks like “Yo Mama’s a Devil” and “Bottle and the Blues,” showcasing his ability to deliver both humor and heartbreak with equal flair.
In 2021, Eddie followed up with Little Black Flies, an album that saw him expand his sound with richer instrumentation and sharper songwriting. Tracks like “The Come Up” and “3AM in Chicago” highlight his knack for storytelling, while the rollicking “She Got Some Money” injects a playful energy that became a signature of his live shows. The album earned critical acclaim, cementing Eddie’s reputation as a rising star in the blues scene.
His latest record, Saratoga (2024), captures Eddie at his most confident and adventurous. Songs like the funky title track, “Halo,” and the blistering closer, “Yella Alligator,” push his sound into new territory without losing the raw authenticity that defines his music.
Eddie 9V is known for his high-energy live performances, where his dynamic interplay with his band creates an infectious vibe that spreads through the audience. On stage, Eddie is the quintessential frontman—charming, quick-witted, and effortlessly cool. His slick Southern drawl introductions are fast and often mumbled, but it doesn’t matter. The music speaks louder than words.
As you would expect, Eddie’s band is a well-oiled machine, with tight rhythm sections, smoky organ tones, and sizzling guitar solos that ignite the crowd. Whether playing an intimate club like Nottingham’s Bodega, where he headlined earlier this year, or opening for major acts like Robert Jon & The Wreck at Rock City, Eddie knows how to command a stage.
The Saratoga Tour has taken Eddie across the U.S. and Europe, building on his reputation as a must-see live act. His stage dynamics are a mix of controlled chaos and spontaneous joy, with Eddie often grinning ear to ear as he exchanges licks with his bandmates or steps to the edge of the stage to connect with the crowd.
As previously stated, I saw Eddie earlier this year at The Bodega, so I knew we were in for something special. Now on his Saratoga Tour supporting his 2023 album, he’s taken his sound to the next level. Dressed in a more laid-back style, a loose black tee, black beanie, and orange shades, and not suited and booted as previous, he ambles onto the stage with a confident swagger.
His slick Southern drawl introduced the first number with a few words that were gone as quickly as they came. It didn’t matter. The moment his guitar rang out, it was clear the music would do the talking.
The night began with “Beg, Borrow & Steal,” Capricorn (2023), a track that immediately grabs the crowd by the lapels and gives you a shake. The song’s gritty, raunchy groove being impossible to ignore, with the rhythm section locking into a thick, rolling foundation. The drums set a steady, deliberate beat, while the bassline throbbed underneath, giving the song a sultry pulse. Eddie’s guitar work is vibrant and alive, with sharp, funky riffs that seemed to dance between the melody and rhythm. His vocals cut through the mix with a rich, slightly raspy tone, carrying an edge that added attitude to every line. Eddie’s playful energy had the crowd grinning and clapping along. When the solo hit, it was all fire and flair, his guitar growling in perfect harmony with the band’s dynamic drive.
After a quick, mumbled intro about how this next one was “about trying to get somewhere,” Eddie slid into “The Come Up,” released as a single (2020). The mood shifted into a more reflective space, with a groove that was smooth and steady. The drums provided a laid-back shuffle, and the bass glided through the mix with understated confidence.
Eddie’s vocal delivery was warm and soulful, dipping into a softer side of his range that carried a sense of longing and perseverance, amplified by the subtle interplay between the instruments. His guitar added a layer of intimacy to the song, with short, tasteful licks that punctuated his vocal phrases. As the band built toward the finale, the subtle harmonies from Chad Mason on the keyboard filled out the sound, creating a rich, immersive experience.
Introducing “Halo” Saratoga (2024) with a quick quip about it being for anyone who’s ever been in love, Eddie leaned into the tender ballad with heart. The track opened with a shimmering guitar line that floated above the steady rhythm section. Sunglasses wearing, Lane Kelly’s bass played gently beneath the melody, while Dave Green added subtle cymbal touches helped create that atmospheric feel. Eddie’s voice carried the song, his phrasing intimate and conversational, as if he were sharing a personal moment with each member of the crowd. The chorus lifted the song into a soaring, soulful space, with the guitar and keyboard weaving together beautifully to create a lush sonic backdrop. When the guitar solo arrived, it was a masterclass in restraint, with every note carefully chosen to serve the song. A head nod to those in the ‘less is more’ club.
Before kicking into the title track, “Saratoga,” Saratoga (2024), Eddie fired off a quick Southern-drawl story about the song’s inspiration, something about a wild night, but it was gone too quickly to catch. No matter; the moment the riff hit, the energy in the room exploded.
“Saratoga” is a rollicking, blues-soaked rocker that thrives on its driving rhythm and infectious hooks. The drums came in with a powerful stomp, while the bass and guitar locked into a riff-heavy groove that has heads nodding across the room. Eddie’s vocals carry a sense of urgency, his delivery raw and passionate. The song is a showcase for the entire band, each member contributing to its rollicking energy. The middle section opened up into a blistering jam, with Eddie tearing through a guitar solo that alternated between furious licks and melodic flourishes.
After a quick “this one’s for all you late-night lovers,” Eddie launched into “3AM in Chicago,” Little Black Flies (2021). The song is a smoky, late-night lament, carried by a slow, bluesy groove that felt like it was tailor-made for dimly lit bars and quiet corners. The rhythm section is subdued but effective, with Dave Green, seemingly playing soft, jazz-like brushes and the Lane Kelly providing a steady, melancholic bass pulse.
Eddie’s voice is front and center here, its gritty warmth brought a raw emotional depth to the song. His guitar work is, once again sparse and tasteful, with gentle bends and slides that echoes the song’s reflective mood. The lyrics paint vivid pictures of lonely nights and longing. As the song fades out, there was a moment of silence before the applause erupted, surely a sign of how deeply it had connected with the partisan crowd, which had grown to fill venue.
Eddie introduced the next song, “1945 (Cocaine and Rum),” Capricorn (2023) with a few words about its historical roots, once again delivered so quickly they were almost lost, but the song itself spoke volumes. The track began with a rolling rhythm that conjured images of train tracks and open highways. The Dave Green laying down a steady groove, accented by syncopated snare hits, while the bassist, Lane Kelly, added a driving low end, that thumped, hard, into your gut.
The guitar riff was sharp and biting, cutting through the mix with a crisp tone that got everyone’s attention. Eddie’s vocals were full of storytelling grit, each line delivered with the urgency of someone who had lived thought the song’s narrative. The instrumental breakdown saw the band ramp up the intensity, with the guitar solo weaving through the rhythm section like a freight train. By the end, it was roaring, the crowd cheering along, energized by the song’s relentless drive.
Eddie closed the set with the all too familiar fan favourite, “Yella Alligator,” Capricorn (2023), a swampy, funk-infused barnstormer that encapsulated everything great about his performance. “This one’s about a bad kinda love,” he said with a sly grin before the band tore into the groove, it was thick and slinky, driven by a fat bassline and a relentless drumbeat that had the crowd light in their loafers. Eddie’s guitar snarled and growled, his slide work adding a raw, primal edge to the track. His vocals were full of swagger, playful and commanding as he drew the audience into the song’s Southern charm.
The band stretched the track into a slightly extended jam, each member taking turns to shine. The bassist threw down a funky solo that had the crowd cheering, while the drummer’s fills added bursts of energy at just the right moments. Eddie’s final guitar solo was a fiery display of skill and emotion, capping off the set with a bang.
Eddie 9V’s performances are always electrifying. His ability to fuse soul, blues, and funk into a cohesive, deeply personal sound make every song feel like a journey. Between his quick quips and his band’s masterful musicianship, he leaves the stage on a high, the crowd now warmed up by a master blues soul man, they impatiently await Robert Jon and the boys.
Speaking of which, Robert Jon & The Wreck have firmly established themselves as one of the most electrifying and dynamic forces in contemporary Southern rock currently touring. With their blend of gritty blues, classic rock influences, and soulful energy, the band has built a loyal fanbase and earned critical acclaim for their songwriting and high-octane live performances. Combining scorching guitar riffs, soulful vocals, and a rhythm section that moves with precision and passion, the band’s sound is both timeless and fresh, drawing inspiration from rock history while keeping their eyes firmly set on the future.
At the heart of Robert Jon & The Wreck’s music is a distinct Southern rock sound that captures the spirit of the genre’s golden age while adding a modern twist. The band’s style is steeped in the traditions of rock, blues, and Americana, with a strong emphasis on big guitar riffs, soaring solos, and heartfelt, bluesy vocals. Their music also features an intricate interplay between the keyboards and guitars, blending swampy grooves with soaring melodies.
What sets Robert Jon & The Wreck apart from many of their contemporaries is the seamless way they incorporate elements of classic rock into their songwriting. Drawing comparisons to the Allman Brothers Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and the Black Crowes, the band has a sound rooted in the expansive, improvisational nature of Southern rock, but they aren’t afraid to add a bit of grit and soul. Whether they’re cranking up a bluesy number or channeling a rootsy Americana vibe, Robert Jon & The Wreck’s music maintains an undeniable sense of authenticity and emotional depth.
Lyrically, Robert Jon & The Wreck’s songs cover themes of love, loss, and personal struggles, delivered with honesty and vulnerability. The band’s sound is emotionally charged, ranging from introspective, soul-searching ballads to raucous, feel-good rock anthems that always seem to land with the crowd.
Robert Jon & The Wreck’s influences are firmly grounded in classic rock and Southern blues traditions. From the hard-driving guitars of the Allman Brothers Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd to the swampy grooves of ZZ Top, the band channels the energy and spirit of these Southern rock giants. Their blues-infused sound also reflects the legacy of iconic artists like Freddie King and Albert King, with a healthy dose of gospel, soul, and country undertones.
The band’s sound draws from the storytelling aspects of Americana, with influences from the likes of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, as well as the rootsy energy of acts like the Black Crowes and Gov’t Mule. There’s a touch of modern rock sensibility too, with elements of bands like The Raconteurs and Rival Sons—bands who blend classic rock influences with a fresh, contemporary twist.
The band’s journey began in 2011, when Robert Jon Burrison (lead vocals, guitar) and his bandmates started playing the vibrant Southern California music scene. Their early years were marked by hard work, countless live shows, and a desire to create a sound that would resonate with people, rooted in their love of the classic Southern rock and blues tradition.
In 2012, Robert Jon & The Wreck released their debut album, Fire Started, which immediately showcased their potential. The album is a raw, rootsy collection of tracks that blend blues, rock, and soul with a distinct Southern flavor. Songs like “Go On” and “You Could Be Mine” set the tone for the band’s evolving sound, which began to grow in complexity and depth with each subsequent release.
Their second album, Glory Bound (2015), further cemented their reputation, introducing more polished production while retaining their gritty, high-energy sound. Tracks like “Rollercoaster” and “I’ve Been Around” demonstrated the band’s talent for songwriting and their ability to deliver anthemic hooks while maintaining their blues-infused edge. The band’s sound was becoming more refined, and their live shows were rapidly gaining a reputation for being one of the most exciting live acts on the road.
The band’s third album, Good Life Pie (2016), was another step forward. Featuring tracks like the heart-wrenching “Golden State,” the album offered more introspective, nuanced songwriting while keeping the band’s trademark energy intact. This album, along with their growing reputation on the live circuit, began to make waves in the rock scene, allowing them to build a dedicated following across the United States and Europe.
In 2020, Robert Jon & The Wreck released Last Light on The Highway, an album that marked a real maturation of their sound. The title track, “Last Light on The Highway,” captures the band’s blend of Southern rock grit and soulful balladry, with soaring guitars and a powerful, anthemic chorus. Tracks like “One Last Time” and “Everything I Need” showed the band at their best, expertly blending personal storytelling with expansive, emotionally charged rock music.
Their most recent release, Red Moon Rising (2024), takes the band’s signature sound to even greater heights. From the heavy, riff-driven title track to the soulful ballads like “Hurricane,” this album is a stunning blend of all the elements that define Robert Jon & The Wreck. It’s an album that is rich with raw emotion and musical virtuosity, showcasing the band’s growth as songwriters and musicians.
Robert Jon & The Wreck have built a reputation for their high-energy shows that keep the crowd engaged from start to finish. The band’s chemistry is undeniable, each member has a deep understanding of their role within the group, and that collective sense of purpose translates into some truly memorable live moments.
At the forefront is Robert Jon Burrison, whose soulful vocals and commanding guitar work form the band’s backbone. His stage presence is magnetic, and his gritty, soulful voice can move from tender to fiery in an instant, always with a touch of vulnerability. He’s joined by Henry James (guitar), who provides another layer of powerful riffs and soaring solos, creating a truly dynamic guitar-driven experience. The rhythm section, featuring Andrew Espantman on drums, Warren Murrel on bass, and Jake Abernathie on keys, ensures the music remains tight, with a groove-heavy pulse that drives the energy of the show forward. Speaking of which here we go, Rock City is primed and ready for a night of soulful, foot-stomping Southern rock as Robert Jon & The Wreck take to the stage. Over the years, this band has built a loyal following in Nottingham, and tonight’s crowd reflects their growing stature.
As the lights dim and the first notes hit, the band rip into the opening track, “Pain No More,” Ride Into The Light (2023), it erupts with a thunderous groove, led by the band’s twin-guitar assault. The song’s riff is gritty yet melodic, setting a fierce dramatic tone. Robert Jon Burrison’s vocals were rugged and emotive, effortlessly commanding the room.
The rhythm section, featuring drummer Andrew Espantman and bassist, the ever-smiling Warren Murrel, are locked into a tight, creating a driving beat, propelling the song forward with a relentless energy. Warren’s signature grin lights up the stage as he rocks along, his basslines adding a weighty undercurrent to the track.
“Rager,” Red Moon Rising (2024), is a stomping anthem that instantly dialed up the energy further. Opening with a bold, swaggering riff, the band immediately had the crowd nodding. The interplay between lead guitarist Henry James and keyboardist Jake Abernathie is electric, their playful, almost dueling solo drawing cheers from the audience. Robert Jon’s vocals take on a growling edge, perfectly complementing the track’s rebellious, devil-may-care vibe. The lights swirled in shades of orange and yellow, matching the track’s fiery intensity, and the audience respond with unbridled enthusiasm, bouncing as one to the pounding rhythm.
The band slowed things down for the next song, “Hold On,” Red Moon Rising (2024)
with this poignant ballad, the mood shifted into something deeply emotional. A gentle organ intro by Jake Abernathie once again set the tone, the song then leading into a soulful, heartfelt vocal from Robert Jon. His delivery is tender and raw, filled with longing. The chorus swelled with lush harmonies, highlighting both the band’s vocal depth and dynamic range. Henry James’s guitar solo was a standout, his expressive phrasing weaving a melodic counterpoint to the song’s sorrowful tone. Blue and white lighting bathed the stage, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere as the crowd seemed to sway, caught up in the song’s haunting melody.
Next up was “High Time,” Robert Jon & The Wreck (2018), bringing with it a funk-infused groove back to the set. The rhythm section led the charge, with Warren’s basslines bouncing energetically under Andrew’s crisp drum patterns. The Abernathie added a playful, vintage flair on the Nord keyboard, I’m not sure if it was on the ‘3’ or the ‘4’, whilst the guitars danced around the groove with a touch of bluesy swagger. Robert Jon’s vocals carrying a laid-back feel-good charm, inviting the audience to relax and enjoy the ride. The stage lighting turned warm and golden, perfectly matching the song’s feel-good vibe.
The band leaned into their more epic side with “Red Moon Rising,” Red Moon Rising (2024).
This a track oozing in atmosphere and drama. The twin guitars, once again opened, laying down an almost hypnotic riff, buttered with subtle organ swells that were direct and full of tension. The verses were sparse, allowing Robert Jon’s storytelling vocals to take center stage. His delivery was intense. When the chorus hit, it was a soaring, cathartic release, with harmonized vocals lifting the track to new heights. “Point of View,” Ride into the Light (2023)
is a newer track and is a masterclass in dynamics, shifting between restrained verses and explosive choruses. The verses featured a subtle, syncopated rhythm, with Andrew’s drumming providing a steady backbone. During the chorus, the band unleashed their full power, with thick guitar chords and soaring vocal harmonies filling the room. Robert Jon’s voice was full of urgency, carrying the song’s message with conviction. The interplay between Henry’s lead guitar and Abernathie’s Nord keyboards creating a rich, layered, textural soundscape.
The soulful, gospel-infused, “Bring Me Back Home,” Ride Into the Light (2023)
brought a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the set. The band’s harmonies shone here, with each member contributing to the rich vocal layers. Robert Jon’s voice was at its most tender, his phrasing full of yearning. The Nord, sounding all Organ-like took a prominent role, adding a lush, church-like quality to the arrangement. Warren’s bass playing was particularly expressive, his melodic lines weaving through the track with finesse. The stage lighting shifted to a soft gold, enhancing the song’s heartfelt mood.
“Don’t Let Me Go,” Last Light On The Highway (2020) once again demonstrated the band’s ability to blend intimacy with power. The song opened with a delicate guitar figure, soon joined by Robert Jon’s plaintive vocals. As the track progressed, it built into a sweeping, full-band crescendo, with Henry’s lead guitar providing a soaring solo that was both technical and deeply emotional. The audience, ever appreciative demonstrated with their cheers rising as the song reached its peak. The bluesy rocker that is “Gold,” Last Light On The Highway (2020), was a highlight of the night, with its slinky groove being irresistible to restrained foot tapping or head nodding. The band effortlessly locked into the pocket, with Andrew’s snappy snare hits and Warren’s walking bassline laying the groundwork. Robert Jon’s vocals have an almost playful edge, delivering the song’s lyrics with a wink and a nod. The Eastman guitars are full of slick licks, their tones dripping with bluesy attitude.
The grown crowd erupts as the opening chords of “Oh Miss Carolina,” Last Light on the Highway (2020), ring out. This firm fan favorite is delivered with all the passion and energy it truly deserves and the crowd expect. The verses are understated, letting Robert Jon’s smooth vocals shine, while the chorus explodes into a jubilant singalong. The band’s harmonies adding depth, while Henry’s guitar solo brings the house down with its fiery precision.
The nostalgic, “Do You Remember,” Last Light On The Highway (2020) is a bittersweet moment in the set. The lyrics, reflecting on love and loss, are delivered with aching sincerity by Robert Jon. The band play with restraint, allowing the song’s emotional weight to take center stage. The Nord Keyboard and guitars weave a delicate tapestry of sound, while the rhythm section provides a steady, understated groove, to this Robert Jon staple.
The slow-burning “Ballad of a Broken Man,” Red Moon Rising (2024) is another masterclass in tension and release. This is the final song of the set, and one that the crowd have been waiting for. The verses are sparse and brooding, with Robert Jon’s vocals dripping with pain and vulnerability. As the song progresses, it builds into a powerful crescendo, with the band unleashing a torrent of sound. Henry’s guitar solo was a tour de force, blending raw emotion with technical mastery. As he stands at the stage edge, eyes closed he delivers time and again a solo that is mouthwateringly spectacular, and the crowd stand transfixed, their cheers only erupting as the song reached its climactic finish.
Returning to the stage for the encore, the band launch into the rousing “Shine a Light on Me Brother.” The title track from Shine a Light on Me Brother (2021). This gospel-tinged anthem is a communal experience, with the audience joining in on the jubilant chorus. The band play with unbridled energy, their harmonies soaring above the rich instrumental backdrop. The lights shine bright, bathing the stage in a warm, golden glow that equally matched the song’s uplifting spirit. The night ended on a bluesy note with “Cold Night.” Another from Glory Bound (2015).
The track’s slow, sultry groove is the perfect closer, allowing the band to wind things down while maintaining the intensity. Robert Jon’s vocals were smoky and intimate, drawing the fans in one last time. The guitars wept and wailed, their tones dripping with emotion, as the Nord keyboards provided a haunting undercurrent. The stage lights dimmed, casting the band in shadow as the final notes faded, leaving the audience sated.
What an emotional night it’s been, opening with a sound that bridges generations and a live show that leaves audiences begging for more, Eddie 9V breezed onto the stage like breathing fresh life into the blues. His uncanny ability to honor the traditions of the genre while injecting his own modern flair makes him a standout artist in today’s music scene. Whether he’s ripping into a raunchy blues number or delivering a heartfelt ballad, Eddie brings a soulfulness and authenticity that cat help but resonate deeply with fans old and new.
As for the headliners, Robert Jon & The Wreck, here is a band that’s impossible to ignore. With their authentic sound, impeccable musicianship, and passion for performing, they’re steadily building a legacy that’s sure to stand the test of time. As they continue to gain recognition and expand their reach, they’ve moved up from a 450-cap venue to one of 2000 in a year, it shows that their influence on the Southern rock and blues landscape will only continue to grow.
For fans of real, gritty, and soulful rock, Robert Jon & The Wreck are the real deal, and they’re just getting started.
