Smith / Kotzen – SWG3, Glasgow: Blues Fury, Maiden Majesty & Pure Guitar Alchemy

Review by Darren McIntyre Images By Scott Anderson

When two world-class musicians collide, expectation levels soar. With Adrian Smith of Iron Maiden and Richie Kotzen (of Mr. Big, Poison and The Winery Dogs fame) sharing a stage, you know you’re in for something special. Their partnership, born from a mutual love of blues-infused rock ‘n’ roll, has already delivered a stunning self-titled debut in 2021 and now the critically acclaimed Black Light / White Noise. Tonight at SWG3, Glasgow, the duo prove once again that this is no side project — it’s a fully realised force of nature.

As Bad Company’s classic self-titled anthem hums through the PA, the venue plunges into darkness. The roar is deafening as Smith and Kotzen stride onstage, flanked by the powerhouse rhythm section of Julia Lage (bass) and Bruno Valverde (drums). Without hesitation, they launch into “Life Unchained”. Crunching riffs explode from the amps as the pair trade vocals and licks with effortless chemistry. Smith, resplendent in a fedora and red scarf, looks every inch the seasoned gladiator.

“Black Light” follows with thunderous precision. Valverde’s pounding kick drum anchors the groove while Lage’s basslines bounce with swagger. The twin guitar interplay is simply sublime — sharp, fluid and instinctive. It feels both loose and laser-focused, a balance only musicians of this calibre can achieve.

“Wraith” raises the temperature further, the rhythm section delivering heavyweight punches while Smith and Kotzen unleash blistering solos. The power dynamic between them is fascinating — no ego, just mutual respect and a shared hunger to push each other harder.

There’s light-hearted banter too, with the duo joking about Glasgow’s fearless Saturday-night fashion in sub-zero temperatures. The crowd laps it up before they tear into “Hate & Love”, a gritty, groove-drenched rocker that showcases Kotzen’s soulful rasp perfectly.

“Blindsided” and “Taking My Chances” keep the momentum surging, the vocal trade-offs adding depth and texture. “Outlaw” and “Darkside” lean heavily into their blues roots, dripping with attitude and rich melodic phrasing.

As the set hurtles toward its climax, “White Noise” and fan favourite “Scars” draw huge cheers. “You Can’t Save Me” is delivered with emotional weight, Kotzen pouring heart and soul into every note.

Then comes the moment many were hoping for — “Wasted Years”. The Maiden classic erupts to a wall of voices, SWG3 transformed into a sea of raised fists. Smith’s iconic melodies ring out proudly, but tonight they’re wrapped in the unique Smith/Kotzen chemistry — heavier, bluesier, yet utterly faithful.

This wasn’t nostalgia. It wasn’t indulgence. It was two masters at the height of their powers, delivering a set packed with groove, grit and world-class musicianship. Glasgow witnessed something truly special.

Smith / Kotzen
Adrian Smith – Guitar / Vocals
Richie Kotzen – Guitar / Vocals
Julia Lage – Bass
Bruno Valverde – Drums

Setlist:
Life Unchained
Black Light
Wraith
Glory Road
Hate & Love
Blindsided
Taking My Chances
Outlaw
Darkside
Got A Hold
White Noise
Scars
Running
Solar Fire
You Can’t Save Me
Wasted Years