Mos Generator were formed in 2000 from the ashes of a decade-long collaboration between its founding members, and in the quarter of a century since have become a cornerstone of the Heavy underground. With nine studio albums, multiple live and retrospective releases, and tours alongside Saint Vitus, Fu Manchu, Spirit Caravan, and Elder, the band has earned a reputation for their authenticity and relentless energy.
Fronted by guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Tony Reed, the band were riding high on the recent release of “Songs for Future Gods” (2007) at the time of this recording, while embarking on their first European tour.
“This was the first show!” smiles Reed. “By the time we got on stage at Roadburn we were worn out from jet lag and playing unfamiliar gear. All in all, it’s a pretty good set with highs and lows. It’s taken me seventeen years to come to grips with the idea that people don’t mind hearing mistakes – if that’s the case, you won’t be disappointed.”
Despite its rawness, the set captures Mos Generator in their prime: equal parts Heavy, soulful, and unapologetically human. Highlights include the first-ever live performance of “Step Up,” new single and fan favourite “Dyin’ Blues,” and the kind of stage banter and unpredictability that made the night unforgettable, including bassist Scooter Haslip being called back from the showers by a roaring crowd to continue the set.
“This is a loose and heavy version of ‘Dyin’ Blues’ that had come out on a 10” picture disc in 2007,” explains Reed. “I don’t think we played it much live back then but it has some of the classic blues lyrics in a heavy rock musical backdrop. It’s also one of the few live songs where Scooter sings backup vocals. A nice harmony on this cut.“
Their Roadburn appearance marked the beginning of their international touring legacy, opening doors to major European festivals and new audiences worldwide where critics have long recognized Mos Generator’s unique ability to balance grit and soul.
“Live at Roadburn Festival 2008” will be the third official release on Savant Guarde Records, a rising independent label dedicated to preserving the legacy of Heavy underground music. Reed, who in recent years has also made his mark as guitarist and producer with Pentagram, has found a natural partnership with label head Daniel Rozell in bringing this long-awaited recording to light.
Releasing on 24th October 2025 as a limited edition 2xLP set (one clear, one black, 250 copies) and CD edition (300 copies), “Live at Roadburn Festival 2008” offers a raw yet powerful snapshot of Mos Generator at a pivotal moment in their career. Pre-Orders will launch in the coming weeks here: https://savantguarderecordsusa.bandcamp.com/
Stream fan favourite “Dyin’ Blues [Live]” via the Spotify player below:
Mos Generator (2008 Lineup):
Tony Reed / Guitar, Vocals, Keyboards
Scooter Haslip / Bass, Backing Vocals
Shawn Johnson / Drums