Bush’s “Loaded” Greatest Hits tour made an incredible stop in Atlanta, Georgia on September 1st, bringing a sleuth of 90’s nostalgia with them. Joined by Bones UK, Candlebox, and the grunge legend Jerry Cantrell, the entire evening was a nostalgic blast.
Bones UK took the stage with an electric presence that left the crowd buzzing with energy. The trio was brought a raw, unapologetic performance with gritty guitar riffs, fierce vocals, and a stage presence that commands attention. The chemistry between Rosie Bones and Carmen Vandenberg was so pronounced, allowing them to create a sonic landscape that’s both edgy and empowering. The setlist, while short was a perfect blend of their hard-hitting anthems and darker, more introspective tracks, keeping the audience on their toes throughout. Bones UK’s was such a triumph for any fan of rock with a rebellious spirit.
Candlebox was next up on the lineup, and it was like stepping into a time machine powered by raw emotion and grunge rock energy. The band effortlessly blended their iconic ’90s sound with fresh, powerful performances that grabbed both longtime fans and new listeners. Kevin Martin’s vocals remain as strong and soulful as ever, delivering each lyric with the intensity and passion that made songs like “Far Behind” and “You” unforgettable anthems. Outside of Kevin’s powerful performance, he would stop between songs to interact with the crowd, creating a bond with all in attendance. Candlebox’s solidarity on stage was incredible, creating an electrifying atmosphere that left the audience feeling both nostalgic and invigorated. Candlebox proves that even after decades, their music still resonates deeply, making their live performance a must see.
Jerry Cantrell and crew graced the stage next with a mesmerizing experience that dives deep into the heart of grunge and rock. The backing band is a powerhouse of some of the most talented musicians in the business, with Greg Puciato from Dillinger Escape Plan fame providing secondary vocals and expertly covering the late Layne Stayley’s parts in the handful of Alice in Chains hits that were performed. Filling in the rest of the band was Zach Throne on guitar, Eliot Lorango on bass, and drum legend Roy Mayorga on drums From the moment he steps on stage, Cantrell’s mastery of the guitar and his distinctive vocals take you on a nostalgic journey through decades of music history. The setlist is a perfect blend of his solo work and classic Alice in Chains hits, delivering powerful performances that resonate with raw emotion and gritty authenticity. Each riff and lyric reverberated with the haunting intensity that Cantrell is known for, leaving everyone both exhilarated and introspective long after the final chord fades.
Bush took the stage next with an epic drum walk-in that lit the stage up with every fill. From the moment the lights dim and the first chords echo through the venue, there’s an undeniable sense of anticipation that only intensifies as Gavin Rossdale strides onto the stage. The entire experience casts aside the ordinary, welcoming the audience with a powerful blend of nostalgia, raw energy, and the timeless allure of post-grunge. Gavin’s gritty, yet soulful vocals immediately command attention, and you’re reminded why Bush has remained a staple in the rock scene for decades. Bush’s setlist lives up to the tour namesake of Greatest Hits, masterfully weaving together their iconic 90s hits like “Machinehead” and “Glycerine” with newer tracks that showcase their evolution without losing that signature edge.
Rossdale’s stage presence is magnetic; he’s not just performing, but engaging in a conversation with the audience, whether he’s climbing into the crowd to sing with fans or losing himself in extended, emotive guitar solos. At one point, Gavin delivered a haunting take on their hit “Swallow” that left the packed venue in awe. The musicianship of the band is tight and polished, yet it retains that raw, unfiltered quality that makes their live performances so compelling. The atmosphere in the venue is intense and harmonic, creating a shared energy that pulses through the crowd as everyone sings along, reliving memories tied to each song. The night ended on a perfect note, as Jerry Cantrell joined the band on stage to perform “Comedown”, highlighting the feeling that every member of the crowd was feeling, no one was ready to come down from that cloud. By the time the final chord echoed throughout the amphitheater and the band takes their bow, you’re left with a sense of fulfillment and the lingering thrill of having witnessed something truly special—a night where the past and present collide in a celebration of rock at its finest.
Bush’s “Loaded” Greatest Hits tour is a perfect tribute to 90’s nostalgia, showcasing why the grunge and post-grunge sounds of that era continue to captivate rock fans today. If you have the chance to catch this show in your city, don’t miss out—it could be one of the best rock concerts of the summer!
Bush’s “Loaded” Greatest Hits Tour continues through September 15th of 2024. For upcoming shows, visit https://bushofficial.com/tour.
Follow Bush, Jerry Cantrell, Candlebox and Bones UK on their socials below:
Bush: Instagram // Facebook
Jerry Cantrell: Instagram // Facebook
Candlebox: Instagram // Facebook
Bones UK: Instagram // Facebook
Photos and Review by Adam Colwell (@pixelsoftheimagination)
