It takes a special kind of band to generate the ground-shaking roar typically associated with a four- or five-piece rock outfit with just two members. Royal Blood did exactly that, unleashing a torrent of sound upon the crowd at Grant Park for Lollapalooza 2017 in Chicago. This performance captures the British duo—Mike Kerr on bass and vocals, Ben Thatcher on drums—at a pivotal moment in their career. They were riding high on the success of their recently released sophomore album, "How Did We Get So Dark?," which had dropped just a couple of months prior.
The setlist was a powerful blend of fan favorites and new material, kicking off with the brooding intensity of "Where Are You Now?" before launching into the album's lead single, "Lights Out." Kerr’s masterful use of a complex pedal setup allows his bass to scream like a lead guitar one moment and provide a thunderous low-end the next, all while Thatcher’s explosive drumming drives the rhythm with relentless precision. This synergy is the core of Royal Blood's identity and what makes their live shows a compelling spectacle of raw power and musical innovation.
This Lollapalooza show is a prime example of the duo's commanding stage presence. They deliver a tight, ferocious set that solidified their reputation as one of the most exciting live acts in modern rock. The performance is a testament to their unique formula: maximum volume, killer riffs, and an energy that far exceeds their minimalist lineup.