West Bruce Jr and Laing Live January 2010 A Return to Classic Blues Rock in New Jersey
In January 2010 fans of classic rock were treated to a rare and meaningful performance by the reformed trio West, Bruce Jr and Laing at a show in Collingswood, New Jersey. The group reunited original guitarist and vocalist Leslie West with drummer Corky Laing and welcomed Malcolm Bruce, son of the late Jack Bruce, on bass. This configuration was presented as a continuation of the legendary West, Bruce and Laing legacy, offering audiences a chance to hear music that originally emerged from one of the most distinctive blues rock collaborations of the early nineteen seventies.
West, Bruce and Laing first came together in nineteen seventy two, blending the raw power of Mountain with the innovative musical pedigree of Cream. The original lineup recorded two studio albums, Why Dontcha in 1972 and Whatever Turns You On in 1973, and released a live album, Live n Kickin, in nineteen seventy four before disbanding. Their sound was defined by hard driving rhythms, blues influenced guitar work and a chemistry that reflected the combined experience of each musician.
The Collingswood show in January 2010 drew interest not simply because it brought these musicians back together, but because it represented a thoughtful passing of the torch. With Malcolm Bruce stepping into his father’s role on bass, the performance acknowledged the band’s rich history while offering fresh energy. According to contemporary accounts, the collaboration came with Jack Bruce’s blessing and was embraced by both West and Laing as a meaningful way to revisit and celebrate the music they had created decades earlier.
On stage, the three musicians played a set that reflected both reverence for the original material and responsiveness to the live moment. Leslie West’s guitar tone remained unmistakable, his approach shaped by decades of performance across blues rock and hard rock contexts. Corky Laing’s drumming provided a solid and dynamic backbone, reflecting his long tenure with Mountain and other projects. Malcolm Bruce brought technical skill and familiarity with the material, enabling the trio to navigate complex arrangements with confidence.
The video recording from the show captures the raw energy and rapport among the trio as they moved through a set rooted in classic rock fundamentals. Viewers can observe the interplay among the musicians as they balance structured songs with moments of improvisation, maintaining the spirit of the original West, Bruce and Laing performances. The presence of Malcolm Bruce adds both continuity and renewal, symbolizing the enduring influence of his father’s musicianship.
This January 2010 performance in Collingswood stands as an important document for fans of West, Bruce and Laing and for listeners interested in the evolution of blues rock. It demonstrates not only the lasting power of the music but also the respect each musician brought to the collaboration. For many in attendance and for those who have since viewed the recording, the show remains a vivid reminder of the fusion of heritage and live performance.