Review: Nickelback, Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle

May 27 2009 by Simon Rushworth, The Journal

Rolling out their biggest hard-rocking hits well before the encore simply added to the impression that this is a band oozing self-belief and confidence.

Inviting the lead singer of sensational support act Black Stone Cherry up on stage to lead a rendition of AC/DC’s Highway To Hell was a gesture as brave as it was generous (because the man in question, Chris Robertson, is a rising star in his own right and quite capable of putting Kroeger in the shade).

Using shots of the Tyne’s bridges, the Angel Of The North and a bottle of Brown Ale during a fantastic version of Photograph was inspired. This is why Nickelback can do no wrong.

A desperate drum solo, a Kings Of Leon cover and the corny gimmick of firing T-shirts into the crowd were mistakes but they were the only ones. Otherwise this was the perfect arena rock show.