Photo by Alex Anderssen
Gazing out onto the crowd, which looked like a sea of bobble heads, a gigantic grin on bassist/vocalist Jake Sproul’s face, Rose Hill Drive charged through an explosive set that closed out its recent spring tour. Comprised of brothers Jake and Daniel Sproul and drummer Nate Barnes, Rose Hill Drive’s raw, emotive rock has earned the group high praises from both critics and fellow musicians alike.
Opening the night with a fierce instrumental intro, the trio blasted head on into a blistering “Showdown.” Daniel’s beefy guitar riffs complemented his brother’s screeching vocals, which sounded like a hybrid of Chris Cornell and Ozzy Osbourne, and remained sharp and consistent throughout the night.
Gradually picking up steam as the evening progressed, the band ripped through a dirty rendition of “Cool Cody” that featured a tuned-down guitar melody. The placement of two cover songs provided a glimpse into the band’s obvious influences: a rowdy version of Jimi Hendrix and The Band of Gypsies’ “Message of Love,” and a romping version of Black Sabbath’s “Fairies Wear Boots.” Daniel even looked the part of Tony Iommi, circa early ‘70s, with his flowing mane and mustache, not to mention his sizzling, demonic riffs. Both songs were perfectly placed and executed with precision. The only weak moments during the set were in the form of the band’s newer songs, which weren’t bad, but should improve with a little seasoning.
Although each individual is talented, it’s as a cohesive unit where Rose Hill Drive really shines. The band members’ animated display also proved infectious, as the enthusiasm on both sides of the stage was palpable.
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