ISLAMABAD: Expectations were high when Ron ‘Bumblefoot’ Thal took the stage at Lok Virsa this Saturday, and he did not disappoint. After a three-hour performance featuring some of the best known rock songs of all time, audience members left the open air theatre astounded, and somewhat dazed, by his talent.

Previously the lead guitarist for Guns ‘n’ Roses for almost 10 years, Thal’s performance at Lok Virsa marked the end of his first, somewhat brief, tour of Pakistan. Thal’s visit was arranged by local artist management company Shor Bazaar.

Before he took the stage, Thal took some time to mingle with audience members, and several concertgoers took the opportunity to snap selfi es with the musician.

“Pakistan is metal,” Thal said at the event, as he described the local rock music scene, “I can’t wait to return home and tell my friends about Pakistan and bring them all back here.”

The audience consisted mostly of college and university students, many dressed in t-shirts featuring well known rock groups like Pantera, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, and of course, Guns ‘n’ Roses.

But amongst the youngsters were also some unexpected fans.

Zainab Pasha was accompanied by one such fan: her mother. Ayesha Pasha, who grew up listening to Guns ‘n’ Roses, said: “Guns ‘n’ Roses produced some of the best rock compositions ever. I love everything about them; the lyrics and the guitar riffs.

And most importantly, I wanted my girls to get acquainted with the music that has stuck with me for years.”

Pasha said she hoped Thal would play his interpretation of the ‘Pink Panther’ composition, and as luck would have it, it was with that track that he opened his solo performance.

Thal then transitioned into Soundgarden and Iron Maiden covers, some Led Zeppelin (Whole Lotta Love), and Guns ‘n’ Roses tracks like Paradise City, Sweet Child o’ Mine, Welcome to the Jungle, and more. Thal also performed his own original music.

‘November Rain’ and ‘Knocking on Heaven’s Door’ were some of the songs audience members Halima Haroon and Basma Elahi had grown up listening to. “Guns ‘n’ Roses comes strongly recommended by our dads,” Elahi said.

Local bands and aspiring rock musicians also performed with Thal at the concert. Local death metal band ‘Inferno’ performed at the event, and Thal also collaborated with aspiring rock groups like KW (Khuram Waqar Band) and Black Hour.

Thal also performed a guitar solo offstage, surrounded by his adoring fans.

Published in Dawn, August 31st, 2015

On a mobile phone? Get the Dawn Mobile App: Apple Store | Google Play