Rodrigo Y Gabriela, ABC, Glasgow, 16/11/06

The last time I saw Rodrigo Y Gabriela was in more intimate surroundings, at the start of this year. Last night's performance at the new-ish ABC venue, was packed to the rafter's with fans ranging from metalheads, indie kids and even some chin-strokers.

Their brand of Mexican flavoured guitar playing is going down a storm wherever they play. As well as performing their own compositions such as "Juan Loco" and "Tamacun", they peppered their set with three Metallica covers, "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin's
"Stairway To Heaven". Of the Metallica covers, "Orion" was simply fantastic, Gabriela uses every inch of the guitar for both percussion and chords and guitar notes. Each cover version is totally transformed and given a full Rodrigo Y Gabriela overhaul, making each song sound as fresh as ever. The giant screen and the extremely handy guitar-cam's the band now have show just how fast both Rodrigo and Gabriela can play.

Rodrigo's rendition of "Stairway To Heaven" seemed to fit 12 notes in the space of one. I am not exaggerating when I say his hands were a blur. The guitar duel between both members was also sheer class, with each trying to out do one another.

They also have a fantastic stage presence joking with the audience, accepting requests and flashing devil signs at every given oppurtunity, in homage to their roots.

Miss this show at your peril, watch a performance of “Tamacun” here.