Rose Hill Drive are an extraordinary rock trio with an enviable reputation as one of the most exciting live acts around at the moment. Anyone who has seen them on one of their three previous UK tours and witnessed their energy and commitment to their craft will confirm this.

Fresh from sharing stages with such rock giants as The Who, Queens Of The Stoneage and Eddie Van Halen and also releasing their debut album (2006) the band are returning to our shores for a fourth time. To coincide with the tour the band are releasing their new single “Showdown” on Feb’ 28^th

The single features three versions of “Showdown” (studio, live and demo) and before anyone says anything let me stress each version is dramatically different.

The song itself is a stunner and a great vehicle to show of the bands rock credentials. The vocals are impressive, the guitars are fat and fruity and the drums are tight and nail the track to the floor. It’s an over used cliché but I’m going to use it when I say “this band know how to rock”. They have a glorious sound, which is modern and yet at the same time has its feet firmly in classic rock territory. The spirit and swagger of early Led Zeppelin stalks this track and there is also the ghost of Stevie Ray Vaughan at his bluesy, twangiest best. The live version for this reviewer is a real highlight and a gem.

Recorded at “The Boulder Theatre” it positively crackles with unbridled energy. Hook these guys up to a generator and they could light up a while town. The live version has an extended intro and because one has already heard the studio version you find yourself on the edge of your seat waiting for the track to kick off and when it does it never lets up till the end. There is a slithery full on guitar solo, which glues the proceedings together, and as the track reaches its explosive climax the audience reaction leaves you in no doubt that they are “knocking 'em dead”.

The demo version is rawer than the studio version, as one would expect but is a fascinating insight into how a band develops a song. Rose Hill Drive play rock for both the new generation and the old school classic rockers. You know it’s time to sit up and listen to a band when Eddie Van Halen gives them his blessing.

If you haven’t taken a ride along “Rose Hill Drive” yet go pick up their debut album or better still check out the band at one of their upcoming live shows. ”Showdown” is a storming track from one hell of a band.

Let us know your views on 'Showdown'

Track List

Showdown (Studio)
Showdown (Live)
Showdown (Demo)

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