Six Years in the Making: A Review of War Chile's Album Release Show

Six Years in the Making: A Review of War Chile's Album Release Show
by Dan MacDonnell

September 9, 2023

Salem, Virginia based War Chile has been playing the Roanoke area since 2017, first as a three piece band with Mason Jenelle on drums and Brian Gray and Henry Lazenby trading guitar and bass duties throughout their shows.  These shows were power-blues driven, a la Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin.  Then Jay Gladden joined on bass to create a new chemistry that allowed them to expand into other genres. This was evident last Saturday night at Martin’s Downtown when War Chile performed for the better part of three hours, highlighted by songs released on their debut self-titled album War Chile. 

Major Malfunktion Music and Artisan Festival supported the release party, handling merchandise and conducting a raffle for Dead & Co. tour posters and Major Malfunktion tickets.  The festival will feature 17 regional bands, including War Chile, and will take place October 6 - 9, 2023 in nearby Axton, Virginia.

Saturday’s show was well promoted and the turnout was strong. The atmosphere was palpable, as many family members and friends of the band were in attendance for this special event...  and we weren’t disappointed.  The band opened with covers by Hendrix, Elvis Costello, and The Who’s Pinball Wizard before playing each of the songs from their new album in succession.  The power and enthusiasm of their play was contagious as the crowd became more excited with each song.  The band was extremely tight and well-rehearsed, with many of their originals oozing southern rock and the blues.  Think Black Crows, Allman Brothers, and a sprinkling of Primus and you get the idea.  The highlight of the evening for me was their original, "Gravedigger Blues." And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the play of Mason on drums. His all-out style of play makes you wonder where he gets his energy, but his play remains precise!  When matched with Jay’s rock-solid rhythm and the superb guitar playing skills of Brian and Henry, the sound is huge!

The second set of the show was as amazing as the first half, with several more covers including The Beatles’ “I Want You (She’s So Heavy)," a cover of the ska tune “Message to You, Rudy,” and what’s become a worthy staple for War Chile, “Whipping Post” by the Allman Brothers Band.  On this song, Brian’s vocal range is astounding, and the play of the band reaches an intensity rarely found in a local club.  Followed by Led Zep’s “Dancing Days” and several more unreleased War Chile originals ended the night’s show at about 1:20 AM.

War Chile brought the heat and we loved every minute of it! Check out the War Chile album review by editor Jason Jones, only at thecitysalt.com. War Chile is available on Spotify and other streaming services. <>

Photo credit: Openhead Takes Photos