MARTY FRIEDMAN, the legendary guitarist formerly of MEGADETH, set the stage ablaze as the opening act for JOHN 5 at the Granada Theater in Dallas, Texas on Saturday, February 24, 2024. Opening with “Stigmata Addiction,” FRIEDMAN captivated the audience with his unique blend of Eastern musical scales and Western musical styles, showcasing his virtuosic skills and wide-ranging musical influences. Highlights included the emotive “Devil Take Tomorrow,” the hard-hitting “Rock City,” and a nostalgic nod to his thrash metal roots with “Tornado of Souls.”
FRIEDMAN‘s performance was a masterclass in guitar prowess and musical fusion, seamlessly incorporating elements of rock, pop, jazz, and metal. The set concluded with a memorable “Guest Jam” featuring an audience member, emphasizing FRIEDMAN‘s spontaneous and inclusive approach to live performances. FRIEDMAN‘s set not only primed the audience for the night’s headliner but also stood out as a testament to his enduring impact on the world of guitar music.
JOHN 5‘s solo performance was an electrifying showcase of his virtuosity and versatility as a guitarist, marking his first tour since joining the ranks of MÖTLEY CRÜE. The concert was a vibrant journey through various genres and styles, demonstrating JOHN 5‘s profound connection with his guitar and his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through music.
The night kicked off with “Season of the Witch,” immediately setting a high-energy tone with its intricate guitar work. This was followed by “Que Pasa,” a track that seamlessly transitioned from a dynamic breakbeat drum pattern into a melody rich with groovy blues rock elements, captivating the audience with its energetic vibe.
As the evening progressed, “Six Hundred and Sixty Six Pickers in Hell, CA,” and “Howdy” showcased JOHN 5‘s exceptional skill, blending elements of rock, country, and metal. “Crank It – Living With Ghosts” and “Strung Out” continued to highlight his technical prowess, each song a testament to his unique ability to combine showmanship with intricate guitar work.
A standout moment of the night occurred during the “Bass Jam,” where JOHN 5 himself showcased his incredible talent on the bass, delivering a performance that perfectly complemented his guitar work. This extraordinary display not only highlighted his versatility as a musician but also set the stage for “Cactus Flower” and “I Am John 5,” tracks that delved deep into the artist’s musical and emotional range.
The concert also featured a selection of covers, including “How High the Moon” and “Georgia (on My Mind),” showcasing JOHN 5‘s respect for musical heritage while infusing each piece with his distinctive style. The MÖTLEY CRÜE medley was a particular highlight, blending classics like “Live Wire” and “Dr. Feelgood” into a thrilling tribute to his current band, met with enthusiastic approval from the audience.
The evening wound down with an eclectic mix of covers, including a haunting rendition of “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This),” a nod to his memorable tenure with MARILYN MANSON. This choice highlighted not only his versatility as an artist but also his ability to pay tribute to significant chapters of his musical journey.
The concert concluded with “The Ghost” and “Land of Misfit Toys,” encapsulating the essence of the night: a celebration of the power of music to evoke emotion, transcend genres, and connect deeply with the audience.
JOHN 5‘s performance at the Granada Theater was nothing short of a masterclass in musicianship, leaving the audience in awe of his talent and eagerly awaiting his next return to the stage.
