By Christopher Crone
Swabbies on the River was the perfect setting for a Sunday of live rock and roll. The sun
was out, the river breeze kept things comfortable, and the food—especially Swabbies’
legendary fish tacos—was spot-on. Add in two powerhouse tribute bands, and it was the
kind of summer day you don’t forget.
The afternoon kicked off at 3:00 PM with Ozzy Unchained, fronted by Aaron Pearson.
Backed by Terry Lauderdale on guitar, Jeff Young on bass, and Tim McCall on drums, the
band tore through Ozzy Osbourne’s classic catalog with precision and energy. Pearson’s
vocals captured the raw edge and eerie charm of the Prince of Darkness, while
Lauderdale’s guitar work was packed with the riffs and solos that define Ozzy’s sound. The
hour-long set had fans singing along, horns in the air, and plenty of headbanging in the
crowd
After a quick changeover, it was time for Unchained: The Van Halen Tribute. The band
launched into their first set just after 4:00 PM, and the difference in energy was
immediate—people were up and dancing at the front of the stage within minutes.
Lauderdale shifted seamlessly into Eddie Van Halen’s legendary guitar role, delivering
note-perfect solos and flashy technique. Pearson nailed the high-energy vocal style, while
Young and McCall kept the rhythm section driving hard. Their first hour-long set was
electric, but the band wasn’t done yet. After a well-earned break, they returned for another
hour-plus of Van Halen classics, keeping the crowd moving and singing all the way to the
end.
By the time the music wrapped, the riverfront venue was buzzing with satisfied fans.
Between the incredible performances, the beautiful setting, and Swabbies’ unbeatable
food, this was a perfect summer show that left the audience wanting more. Both Ozzy
Unchained and Unchained proved why tribute bands, when done right, can be just as
thrilling as the originals.
Categories: Concert Photography, Ozzy Unchained, Unchained: The Van Halen Tribute
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