A mouth watering double bill showcasing two of the hottest bands around ensured that the "sold out" signs were posted at venues right across the UK. Black Stone Cherry and Rival Sons have both built respectable followings and the expectant crowd were rewarded with two hours of prime rock and roll. Sea of Tranquility staff writer Dean Pedley reports from Birmingham where both bands were on superb form.

Championed by Classic Rock magazine, LA quartet Rival Sons have been regular visitors to the UK over the past twelve months. Marking the release of a revamped Pressure and Time, they launch into their thirty minute set with retro rock opener "All Over The Road" that is greeted like a long lost friend. They truly are the perfectly formed four man line-up; charismatic frontman Jay Buchanan has an amazing voice and presence, the rhythm section of Michael Miley and Robin Everhart provide a rock solid backbone while guitarist Scott Holiday capably handles the riffs and solos whilst maintaining a mysterious and moody on-stage persona. The extended version of "Soul" evolves into a showcase for Buchanan's voice that has the raw power and emotion of Eric Burdon in his prime. This was high voltage rock and roll at its very best.