Originally published by The Birmingham Mail. October 2009.

Richie Kotzen has long been regarded as one of the finest musicians of his generation and one of rock’s most recognisable voices. There certainly is no one quite like him when it comes to a proper long guitar solo.

A well turned-out audience looked on in awe as they watched Richie play a set showcasing songs from his new album Peace Signs.

Like his fellow American Joe Bonamassa a few months previously, Richie gave a master class performance on the guitar that would have lefty lesser talented players green with envy.

This really shouldn’t be surprising, as the man has been part of two of the biggest rock acts of the 90’s, Poison and Mr Big, as well as releasing over 20 solo albums.

Richie was joined on stage by the talented Daniel Pearson and Venezuelan drummer Demian Arriage-Reyes, who combined brilliantly.

Ian D. Hall

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