During a revealing moment in the tour documentary for their new live album, Mayhem and Revelry, Dirty Honey guitarist John Notto shares a significant realization that underscores the essence of rock music. Backstage at London’s Electric Ballroom, he reflects, “Something clicked tonight in my mind,” adding that he finally understood that rock ‘n’ roll is fundamentally about simple enjoyment. This profound statement highlights the heart of the genre, which should prioritize the thrill of performance over complexity.

Lead singer Marc Labelle humorously responds, “You’re just learning this now?” This exchange is not just lighthearted banter but also emphasizes Notto’s deep-rooted musical influences. He elaborates, stating that while his musical inspirations included iconic bands like Queen, Pink Floyd, and the Allman Brothers, the simplicity of rock ‘n’ roll is what ultimately resonates with him. He notes, “If you look at it, a lot of what Guns N’ Roses does has that same spirit.” Notto acknowledges the tendency of many artists to complicate their music, realizing that the essence of rock is to keep it straightforward and enjoyable.

Expounding on the challenges of touring, Notto expresses the stress that often accompanies life on the road. He candidly discusses issues such as delayed equipment and the pressures of management, which can overshadow the joy of performing. “When everything goes wrong, it’s easy to lose sight of the fun,” he admits. Yet, he finds solace in the exhilarating moments on stage, where the music becomes a liberating experience. His reflection brings to light the importance of maintaining the joy in music, reminding both artists and fans that at its core, rock ‘n’ roll is about simplicity and enjoyment.

The Mayhem and Revelry album, part of their 2023-2024 Can’t Find the Brakes tour, showcases Dirty Honey as true veterans of the stage. It blends precision with spontaneity, creating a live album that genuinely captures the raw energy of their performances. Notto proudly mentions that the 16-track LP is free from overdubs, stating, “Nobody went back in to do a fix-it session.” This authenticity is crucial, as they meticulously listened to recordings from 60 shows to ensure that any minor discrepancies were acceptable, capturing the spirit and energy of their live performances.

Notto’s impressive blues-rock skills are complemented by his extensive knowledge of classic rock history, which significantly influenced the sound and aesthetic of Mayhem and Revelry. He expresses his hope that this album can proudly sit alongside other legendary live recordings, emphasizing that their live performance has a unique quality that sets them apart. “I think we have another gear,” he asserts, pointing to how essential it is to showcase their true live sound to resonate with fans and honor rock ‘n’ roll tradition.

Watch Dirty Honey’s ‘When I’m Gone (Live)’ off ‘Mayhem and Revelry’

In their 2023 sophomore album, Can’t Find the Brakes, Dirty Honey has expanded their musical horizons with sultry ballads like “Roam” and intricate jams such as “Rebel Son.” However, Notto recognizes that their signature sound remains rooted in a bluesy, hard-rock style that is more straightforward compared to the layered complexities of bands like Pink Floyd or the later Guns N’ Roses. He explains, “For me, a lot of rock ‘n’ roll is about that driving force that remains the same,” highlighting the influence of blues music on their sound. Bands like AC/DC and the Rolling Stones exemplify this tradition of sticking to a core sound while still making it their own.

To illustrate his point about rock’s raw energy, Notto recalls a vibrant live performance by AC/DC in California in 1979, during Bon Scott’s era. He describes the band’s intensity and precision, particularly the way the bass player drives the rhythm with staccato notes that create a powerful groove. “They are just cooking,” he enthuses, emphasizing the unmatched energy that comes from their live shows. He challenges anyone who thinks AC/DC is simple, saying, “You ain’t doing it.” This passion reflects the essence of rock music: it’s not just about the notes played but the energy and spirit behind the performance.

Any discussion about Dirty Honey naturally leads to the influence of Led Zeppelin, particularly regarding their approach to live performance and instrumentation. Notto acknowledges the band as a reference point for Mayhem and Revelry, not in terms of replicating their sound but rather in understanding the instrumentation required for a full-bodied live experience. He points out that while Led Zeppelin’s complexity can be challenging to emulate, capturing the spirit of their live performances is essential. The simplicity of Dirty Honey’s setup contrasts with that of bands like Aerosmith, who utilize multiple instruments and vocalists, making direct comparisons difficult.

Ultimately, Mayhem and Revelry embodies the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll through the lens of four musicians dedicated to authenticity. “We’re selling realness,” Notto emphasizes, highlighting their commitment to using genuine equipment and capturing the true essence of their live sound. This approach not only honors the rock tradition but also connects with audiences seeking an authentic musical experience that deviates from the polished recordings often found in today’s music landscape.

Anticipate the Exciting 2025 Rock Tour