Brand X in concert at the Beachland Ballroom, Cleveland, OH, 9th September 2017. Review by Jason Douglas Moore. Photographs by Sylvain Despretz.

Brand x is back! Like many of us in the Genesis world I was first exposed to the jazz/fusion pioneers when I discovered Phil Collins was drumming for the group back in the day. After snatching up all the early albums and enjoying them thoroughly over the years, I was both excited and surprised that the band was back after a fifteen year break with a new live album and tour. The new album - “But Wait… There’s More!” revisits their first four albums with both power and grace.

So it was with great anticipation that I went to see the band and the concert did not disappoint! Founding members John Goods all (guitar) and Percy Jones (fretless bass) were joined by Chris Clark (keyboards), Scott Weinberger (percussion) and Kenny Godowsky (Drums).

If I had to write a setlist/wish list for this show, I would have been in heaven. The band performed all of my favourites. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was on the night. |Disco Suicide, Cambodia, And So To F… and Nuclear Burn were all played and all the members of the band were in fine form. Goodsall, the ringleader of this group was tearing it up on the electric guitar - the original “shredder” you might say. Jones on fretless bass demonstrated why he is widely considered the master of this instrument. Chris Clark provided a delicate touch of keyboards in the midst of all the sonic mastery and both Weinberger and Grohowski delivered powerhouse performances on percussion and drums.

Despite a few technical glitches at the top of the night, the show was superb. After waking up with the flu the day before and driving three hours to the show, I was not in top form myself. However, I did not want to miss this chance to see the band. By the end of the night I was feeling a bit better, especially after getting to say hello to all of the band after the show. It was certainly a night I won’t forget!

NOTE: in 2018 gigs in the UK are planned.