Concert Review: SLASH's S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival Brings A Night of Blues to Musikfest
- Scott Kucharski
- Aug 7, 2024
- 3 min read
Slash turns Bethlehem, PA into a steel jungle of blues guitar mastery for one summer night at Musikfest.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a city renowned for its historic steel mills, once again proved that it is a hub of cultural vitality and musical heritage with the annual Musikfest. This year, the largest non-gated music festival in the country, famous for its plethora of free performances, transformed the quaint town into a buzzing epicenter of musical celebration. Among the many unforgettable nights of the 11-day extravaganza, August 5th stood out as a night to remember, headlined by none other than Slash of Guns N' Roses fame.
Setting the Stage
The night opened with a burst of youthful energy as 17-year-old guitar prodigy Grace Bowers took the stage with her band, "The Hodge Podge." The Nashville native, who has been making waves since her breakout performance at the 2023 Newport Folk Festival, did not disappoint. Loud cheers of "Get it, Gracie!" filled the air as she unleashed a torrent of virtuosic guitar riffs. Despite not having released a full-length album yet, Bowers' performance showcased her immense talent and left the crowd eagerly anticipating her future endeavors.
Building the Momentum
Following Bowers, the stage was graced by the four-time Grammy-nominated pedal steel master, Robert Randolph. Known for his work with the Family Band and the Mississippi All-Stars, Randolph delivered a funk-infused set that had the crowd grooving despite the sweltering August heat. His blistering solos and infectious energy further amped up the already electric atmosphere.
Next up was blues and R&B singer-songwriter ZZ Ward, who brought her signature blend of gritty vocals and raw emotion to the stage. Her high-energy set included covers of blues classics from Arthur Crudup, Elmore James, Son House, and The Jesters, alongside her own hit, "Put The Gun Down." Ward's performance was a perfect bridge between the night's diverse acts, keeping the audience thoroughly engaged and primed for the main event.
Slash Takes the Stage
As the clock struck 9:00 PM, anticipation reached its peak. The lights dimmed, and Slash, accompanied by his newly formed blues outfit, took the stage. The iconic guitarist, known for his legendary licks with Guns N' Roses, is currently touring on his S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Fest—a blues extravaganza that also stands for Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality, N’ Tolerance, supporting numerous charities.
From the opening cover of Bukka White's "Parchman Farm Blues," it was clear that the night was going to be something special. Slash and his band delivered a masterclass in blues rock, tearing through a 14-song set that included classics like Howlin' Wolf's "Killing Floor," The Temptations' "Papa Was a Rolling Stone," Hoyt Axton's "The Pusher," and Bob Dylan's "It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry," featuring Slash on pedal steel.
The set was a non-stop highlight reel, but some standout moments included the raw intensity of "Killing Floor" and the soulful rendition of "Papa Was a Rolling Stone." The band's tight performance and Slash's unparalleled guitar work kept the audience spellbound for over 90 minutes, culminating in an experience that felt both timeless and utterly unique.
A Festival with a Meaning and Purpose
Beyond the music, the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival's commitment to social causes added a profound layer of meaning to the event. With one dollar from every ticket sold going to charities like the Equal Justice Initiative, Know Your Rights Camp, The Greenlining Institute, War Child, and NAMI, attendees were reminded that their participation was making a tangible difference in the world. These organizations are dedicated to advancing justice, equity, and well-being, making the festival not just a celebration of music but also a beacon of hope and positive change.
Conclusion
Musikfest 2024 has been a resounding success, and the August 5th performance by Slash and his incredible lineup of supporting acts was a testament to the festival's enduring appeal. The combination of top-tier musical talent, a vibrant atmosphere, and a commitment to making a difference created a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're a die-hard Guns N' Roses fan, a blues enthusiast, or simply someone who loves great music, the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival is an event you won't want to miss if it slithers through a town near you.
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