LIVE REVIEW: Jerry Cantrell at Tulsa Theater in Tulsa, OK on March 4, 2023

Photos and Review by: Daniel Merlino

Date: March 4, 2023

Location: Tulsa Theater, Tulsa, OK

SEATTLE-BASED ROCK band, Thunderpussy, roared at the crowd with a sound reminiscent of musical counterculture from the 1970’s. They exhibited strength and high-energy while performing songs from their two EPs and full-length album. You can catch them on the road as they continue on Jerry Cantrell’s Brighten tour through April 1^st.

It’s a bit hard to miss someone bobbing and weaving through the audience with a loud camera, but multiple people grabbed my attention to talk with me about the show. They told stories of seeing Alice in Chains in small clubs around Seattle in the nineties, sharing the heartbreak of Alice’s original vocalist Layne Staley’s passing, and following Jerry Cantrell’s entire career. They spoke fondly and proudly of him, then wished me a good evening as the artist took the stage.

JC performed most of his third solo album, Brighten, including a cover of Elton John’s “Goodbye.” The rest of the set contained a spattering of well-selected Alice songs that I never thought I’d see performed live. JC’s vocals and guitar playing remain as heartfelt and powerful as ever. Long-time vocalist of The Dillinger Escape Plan, Greg Puciato, provided strong vocal harmony and support.

Experiencing the growl of the iconic single-pickup G&L was a treat to this photographer’s ears, one of my personal goals as a musician and an Alice in Chains fan. Admittedly, I listened to their album Facelift so much that I wore out the CD; purchased another copy and wore that one out too. I am very thankful for this opportunity and highly recommend catching Jerry Cantrell before the end of this tour.

As always, please help keep the magic of music performance alive by supporting your local musicians, artists, and venues.