When Cardinal Black made it onto the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire stage, the crowd were warmed up and buzzing with energy. It was my first time to see this six piece band live, although I had the chance to see guitarist Chris Buck perform as part of the Bernie Marsden All Star Band at the Steelhouse Festival in the summer. The MetalTalk team have consistently described this band with high praise. I was not disappointed.
Cardinal Black
O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London – 11 October 2024
Words And Photography: Manuela Langotsch
I have heard really good things about Cardinal Black and was excited when we (the photographers) were told shortly before the band came on that we were allowed to shoot the whole show instead of the usual first three songs. It’s a completely different concert experience when you don’t have to get your best shots in the first 10 minutes or so. You can enjoy, and review, in this case, the show from the photo pit in between taking pictures. 
In addition to guitarist Chris Buck, the band further consists of frontman Tom Hollister, a man who could sing Rod Stewart under the table in my humble opinion. Whether it’s a slow acoustic song or a more upbeat track, this singer knows how to use his vocal cords. The rhythm section, bassist Sam Williams and drummer Adam Roberts are joined by the perfect additions, backing vocalist Tay Cousins and Tom’s brother Greg on keyboards.
As part of their Welcome To The Valencia Tour, the Welsh rockers stopped in London, where they last headlined two years ago. But their fans have not forgotten their on-stage banter and their ability to deliver a captivating set that highlighted their blend of blues, rock, and soul.
The audience tonight was particularly moved by Hollister’s soulful voice, which gave a raw and also emotional heartfelt edge to the songs, while Buck’s guitar work showed off his fluid, emotive playing style, adding layers to their performance.
The band played several tracks from their 2022 debut album January Came Close, including fan favourites like Tell Me How It Feels and Jump In. Tracks like Adeline, about Tom Hollister’s daughter, and the beautiful ballad Tied Up In Blue, which was part of the encore, showcased Hollister’s magnificent vocal ability.
It was just fabulous to listen to him.
There were numerous occasions where the audience was invited to join the chorus or even sing acapella on their own. It must be incredible for the band to listen to a full house choir singing their songs. The crowd was equally vocal when it came to Buck’s several guitar solos throughout the evening.
The only shame was that the lights on him were so bright that the fans couldn’t really see him or his guitar playing for some of the time.
Chris and Tom frequently thanked the audience for their ongoing support over the years, something neither of them nor the rest of the band take for granted. They both loved interacting with the fans and telling stories. Tom even grabbed a fan’s mobile phone to film the band, the audience, and Chris’s guitar solo.
It was a fantastic evening, one that I won’t forget in a hurry. Looking at the crowd’s smiling faces as they left the venue, neither will they.
