RIVAL SONS // Fallsview Casino, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada 

Rival Sons took the stage at Niagara Falls’ OLG Fallsview Casino on September 12, 2024, but the slightly sterile venue and other challenges made it difficult for the band to hit their usual heights. Known for their raw, blues-driven rock, the casino setting felt a bit too polished and stiff for their fiery style. The band gave their all, delivering 100% in terms of effort, yet at times they didn’t seem fully engaged with the crowd or the atmosphere, which seemed to sap some of their usual exuberance.

The energy in the room noticeably dipped after co-headliners Clutch finished their set. With a thinning crowd, it felt as though Rival Sons were left playing to a quieter audience than expected. Despite this, Jay Buchanan’s commanding vocals still cut through, and Scott Holiday’s searing guitar riffs were on point, even as the band dealt with sound issues beyond their control towards the beginning of their set. These technical problems caused brief rustrationsf but didn’t derail the set, which drew heavily from their album Darkfighter. Notably absent were tracks from their latest release, Lightbringer, sadly, but their catalogue is so strong it wasn’t until we were outside in the car park that it even occurred to us!

The rhythm section, featuring bassist Dave Beste and drummer Mike Miley, anchored the show with tight, powerful grooves. Miley’s drumming, in particular, stood out, keeping the energy alive even during the set’s slower moments. Beste’s basslines provided a solid foundation, giving depth to the band’s sound.

In the end, while the show didn’t fully capture the magic Rival Sons are known for, they still proved why they’re considered one of the best live acts out there. Their musicianship, passion, and ability to push through difficult situations—whether from the sterile setting, sound issues, or a thinning crowd—are a testament to their dedication as performers​