Photos and Review by Robert McDonald
On September 1, 2024, the City Winery in Boston was treated to an electrifying performance by guitar virtuoso John 5, marking the first stop of his “Strung Out” tour. Known for his work with heavyweights like Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie, and currently Mötley Crüe, John 5 brought his solo act to an eager crowd, proving once again why he’s considered one of the most inventive guitarists of his generation.
The stage setup at City Winery was minimalist yet impactful. A drum kit and microphone, complemented by two EVH amps, creating a focused space for the musical performance. Four large monitors looped through an eclectic mix of visuals, including clips from horror movies, cartoons, and images of John 5 himself, adding a dynamic visual element to the show.
The intimate venue, known for its acoustics and close-knit setting, allowed for an up-close experience with John 5’s guitar wizardry. Every note could be heard with crystal clarity, perfectly complementing John 5’s intricate playing style.
From the moment John 5 stepped onto the stage, it was clear that the audience was in for a night of technical mastery and raw energy. Dressed in all black, including jeans, a t-shirt, and a sleeveless denim jacket embellished with metal spikes on the shoulder fronts, John 5 cut an imposing figure. His usual ghoulish makeup was toned down, limited to eyeliner and a familiar black line streaming down his cheek from his right eye.
Throughout the 70-minute set, John 5 circled the stage like a predator, his movements adding to the intensity of the performance. His setlist spanned his extensive solo career, blending metal, rockabilly, and bluegrass with an unmatched flair.
Despite this being the first stop on the tour, and the band admittedly not having played together in a while, any rustiness was imperceptible to the audience. John 5’s unwavering ability to deliver a high-energy, technically impressive show was evident throughout the night.
For most of the set, John 5 was accompanied solely by drummer Alejandro (Alex) Mercado, showcasing the guitarist’s ability to fill the sonic space with his virtuosic playing. The duo’s chemistry was dynamic, with Mercado providing a solid rhythmic foundation for John 5’s guitar acrobatics.
One of the highlights of the night came during the finale when bassist Ian Ross joined John 5 and Mercado on stage. The trio launched into a rocking Mötley Crüe medley, paying homage to John 5’s current gig and delighting the crowd with familiar hits performed with John 5’s signature flair.
John 5’s ability to engage with the audience went beyond his musical prowess. His stage presence and showmanship kept the crowd enthralled throughout the performance. Fans often praise his live shows for their intensity and the sheer display of skill, and this night at City Winery was no exception.
John 5’s concert at Boston’s City Winery was a testament to his status as a guitar hero for the modern age. The combination of his technical skill, diverse musical influences, and captivating stage presence created an unforgettable experience. For fans of guitar music or anyone interested in seeing a musician at the top of his game, this show was undoubtedly memorable, filled with the kind of guitar solos and showmanship that have cemented John 5’s reputation in the rock and metal community. As the first stop on his “Strung Out” tour, it set a high bar for the performances to come.