Tesla – Otter Creek Event Center – Carlton MN – March 1st 2025

Tesla and Brother Cane live at the Otter Creek Event Center in Carlton MN.

Review and photos by Kyle Hansen

Brother Cane has always been a raw, no-frills rock band, and their live performances continue to reflect that energy. When they reunite on stage, it’s clear that the heart of their sound—grungy hard rock mixed with Southern influences—hasn’t aged a day.

One of the most striking elements of their concerts is the frontman Damon Johnson’s stage presence. He’s a powerhouse guitarist, and his vocal performance is just as commanding. You can feel the passion he has for the music, especially on hits like “Got No Shame” and “And Fools Shine On.” His guitar solos are often a highlight, with the audience really feeding off the raw energy.

The band’s sound is tightly packed, with the rhythm section—drummer Jarred Pope, and bassist Glenn Maxey — providing a solid backbone for the performance. There’s a mix of classic Brother Cane hits alongside newer material.

Fans consistently mention that the shows are packed with nostalgia, but there’s also a timelessness to the band’s music that keeps it fresh. Whether they’re playing smaller venues or larger stages, the energy never dips, and it’s clear that the audience loves every minute.

Their concerts are often described as “raw rock and roll,” a phrase that sums up their essence perfectly. There are no gimmicks, just straightforward, powerful performances that highlight what made Brother Cane such an iconic part of ’90s rock.

ATesla is one of those rock bands that truly thrives in a live setting. Even after decades in the game, their concerts are a masterclass in no-nonsense, high-energy rock and roll. Unlike many bands from their era that lean heavily on nostalgia, Tesla still performs with a raw, authentic edge that keeps their shows feeling fresh.

Jeff Keith’s vocals remain gritty and powerful, giving classic hits like “Love Song,” “Modern Day Cowboy,” and “Signs” the same punch they had back in the day. His voice has a naturally unpolished quality, which adds to the band’s bluesy, hard-rock vibe. The twin-guitar attack of Frank Hannon and Dave Rude is another highlight—Hannon, in particular, brings that signature blues-infused soloing that sets Tesla apart from other ’80s rock acts.

One thing that stands out about Tesla concerts is their lack of over-the-top theatrics. There’s no reliance on flashy pyrotechnics or elaborate stage effects; instead, the focus is purely on musicianship and connection with the crowd. The band interacts with the audience a lot, making it feel like a true rock-and-roll experience rather than just a show.

Their setlist usually balances their biggest hits with deep cuts and even some newer material, proving they aren’t just riding on past success. Fans always appreciate how tight the band sounds—each member locked in and delivering a show with the same passion they had in their prime.

Overall, a Tesla concert is a must-see for any classic rock fan. Whether it’s in a small club or a festival setting, their mix of blues-driven riffs, killer solos, and genuine love for performing makes for an unforgettable night of rock and roll.

Setlist – Rock Me to the Top – Modern Day Cowboy – Hang Tough – All About Love – Walk Away – Forever More – Heaven’s Trail (No Way Out) – Miles Away – Changes – Paradise – Call It What You Want – What You Give – Song & Emotion – From the Heart – Love Song – Little Suzi – Signs