Gig Review: Tres Hombres @ Embankment Tavern, Christchurch – 27/03/2026

Following an accident, long-time guitarist Tristin Stacey had concerns that his musical journey may have ended. Gavin Coombs and Nigel Fairweather wanted to help their good mate get ‘back on the horse’ so to speak. Fortuitously, the aptly timed announcement of Blenheim’s 2025 ‘Stars In Their Eyes’ competition led to a plan being born. Tres Hombres were formed and their rendition of a ZZ Top song earned them second place when their turn to ‘shine’ came around.

Not wanting to stop there, the three men expanded their setlist and have been playing tribute gigs ever since – the latest being the ‘feature set’ at Embankment Tavern in Christchurch during the bar’s weekly open mic. This slot is an entry‑level paid professional gig for acts that are starting out, established bands trying out new material/ band members or just looking to get a feel for the Otautahi gig scene.

The finely crafted setlist included well-known songs like La Grange and Legs alongside those that only die-hard fans would recognize. Highlights included the ZZ Top inspired choreography and Rock n’ Roll posing in Cheap Sunglasses as well as the blistering finale on Tush with a few cheeky restarts from drummer Nigel Fairweather.

Tristin appears to have recovered from his injury; his guitar work is phenomenal! Wailing solos and deftly rendered riffs are all executed with flair and apparent ease.

Bass player Gavin’s vocals on Got Me Under Pressure reminded me a little of Mikey Havoc’s wild, metal stylings. Tristin sings with a deep resonance which pairs perfectly with Gavin’s 90’s hair metal meets Aussie rock intonation, giving the band their own signature style while still maintaining the ZZ Top attitude and delivery.

The two lushly bearded frontmen sport a ‘Top’ inspired look whereas in behind the kit Nigel looks like he’s strayed from the Pantera tribute having discarded his shoes along the way. These guys are down-to-earth and oh so cool!

Next up on the gig schedule is Saturday April 25th, 2026 at Christchurch’s A Rolling Stone. The lads are going to celebrate ANZAC day in style with a set of NZ/OZ songs starting at 7.30pm and followed with a ZZ Top tribute set beginning at 8.50pm. Get on down there; they’ll rock your socks off!

Photo Credit: Natasha Hopping