Here we are, back at Bannermans Edinburgh for a double dose of Liberty—first up, Thieves of Liberty, followed by Sons of Liberty. Opening the night, Thieves of Liberty from Sunderland deliver a high-energy set mostly drawn from last year’s excellent Shangri-La album.
We also get a couple of earlier tracks from their superb 2022 Back Again EP, including the rocking “Ain’t Goin’ Home”—which gave me early Thunder vibes—and the equally brilliant classic rocker “Smoke in the Air.” These lads can seriously rock. They’ve got that classic Free swagger, fused with a bounce reminiscent of Extreme and Van Halen.
Songs like the Bon Jovi–infused “Until the End” and the groove-driven “Sweet As Today” are a joy to hear and watch live. Standout tracks tonight included the killer, Extreme-tinged title track “Shangri-La” and last year’s single “Calypso.” James’s voice is phenomenal—rich, powerful, and full of Paul Rodgers-esque swagger—while Kieran and Liam’s twin guitars bring a full-on ’70s rock ’n’ roll vibe to the stage. I thoroughly enjoyed their set and will definitely be catching them again. If they’re playing anywhere near you and you’re into proper classic rock, don’t miss them—you’ll leave with a big grin on your face.
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Then it’s time for the main event: Sons of Liberty take to the stage and launch straight into one of my favourite high-octane rockers, “Time to Fly,” from last year’s The Devil Is in the Detail—recently reissued with two extra tracks. “Light the Fuse” follows, a classic pounder driven by the rhythm section of tub-thumper Steve Byrne and bassist Mark Thomas, locking in perfectly with the twin guitar cannons of Fred Hale and Andy Muse.
We’re welcomed to the party as they move into “Tertulia Time,” a slower-paced classic rocker, before diving into some good old southern rock with “Beef Jerky Boogie” from 2021’s Aces & Eights—Fred really lets loose on this one, and I always love it live. Both new bonus tracks are played tonight: “Full Force Five,” which leans more towards a modern rock sound, and the cowbell-infused stomper “This Town.” Both tracks prove the band’s got serious forward momentum.
The guitars rev up as we head “Up Shit Creek,” another song Russ has truly made his own, followed by another favourite of mine, “Damaged Reputation.” It’s got that infectious rock swing, tasty guitar licks, and a chorus that demands to be sung along with.
“Turn This Tide” brings a John Cougar Mellencamp-meets-Molly Hatchet swagger, before we mellow out with the stunning “Hawk Men Come,” a slow-paced number that showcases Russ’s vocals alongside rich harmonies from the band.
As we hit the final stretch, we get the bouncy rocker “What’s a Man Supposed to Do”—a nightmare to photograph because you’re too busy bouncing and singing along! It always puts a smile on my face. The swaggering “Libertine” flows beautifully into the emotionally resonant “Walk With You,” a powerful track about mental health that hit home for me tonight, as I’ve been struggling myself. It was a real emotional ride.
The night closes with the thunderous “Ruby Star,” wrapping up what was truly an incredible evening of live music. Sons of Liberty never fail to impress. They write and play great songs, have genuine fun on stage, and truly connect with their audience. With Russ on vocals, they’ve reached the next level and are clearly ready to take the next step. If they’re playing near you—go. Not only is the music top-notch, but the lads are top blokes and a pleasure to chat with.
This was a night for true classic rock fans—guitar-driven music played with heart, by bands who care and aren’t just going through the motions.
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Photos by Gary Cooper
