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More concert recollections than you can shake a stick at
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MARK KNOPFLER
May 05, 2001
Rosemont Theater
Rosemont, IL
Ticket Price: $75.00 |
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130.
This was a tremendous show that I had looked forward to since seeing Dire Straits live in concert in 1985. Sixteen years was definitely worth the wait. There was no opening support act, but Mark Knopfler and his band provided more than an evening's worth of entertainment. From Dire Straits staples such as Sultans of Swing, Walk of Life and Telegraph Road to Knopfler's solo work of recent years, every phase of the guitarist's illustrious career were included. For good measure, even some of his accomplished cinematic soundtrack work was also included. SETLIST: 1. Calling Elvis 2. Walk of life 3. Rˆºdiger 4. What it is 5. Romeo and Juliet 6. Sultans of swing 7. Done with Bonaparte 8. Who's your baby now 9. Pyroman (new song) 10. Sailing to Philadelphia 11. Junkie doll 12. Speedway at Nazareth 13. Telegraph road 14. Brothers in arms 15. Money for nothing 16. So far away
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JOURNEY
w/sg Peter Frampton, John Waite
July 17, 2001
Verizon Wireless Music Center
Noblesville, IN
Ticket Price: $47.50 |
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131.
It's easy to bash any of the three of these acts as washed up arena rockers, but the truth is they still put on one hell of a show! Starting with John Waite, the sun hadn't even gone down and the crowd hadn't yet taken seats, but the former Baby didn't seem to mind. His set was full of long forgotten hits from his own platinum solo hit, Missing You to rowdy 70's hits from his U.K. band, The Babys, and even some songs from Bad English for good measure. Waite suffered an unfortunate circumstance of having a brand new solo album with a new record company. Distribution and release were inevitable problems and the new CD was not in stores until long after the U.S. tour was finished. The band included Brother Cane guitarist, Damon Johnson.
Next up was the legendary Peter Frampton and no matter how many times this guy has been knocked down in his career, he gets right back up and delivers another round. Following his highly successful, Frampton Comes Alive in 1976, the next studio album, I'm In You, was his last big time hit. It also changed his image forever. He had gone from a guitar role in the rough and tumble band, Humble Pie to a handsome young pop star adored by women worldwide. The end of the 1970's closed out Peter Frampton's superstar career. From that point forward he was divorced, remarried, bankrupt, etc. and he re-played that saga over and over. Today however, the former pop idol has no hair, wears glasses and lives a quiet midwestern life with his family. He can still rock-n-roll however and he is easily one of the greatest guitarists alive. Whether he's playing your local outdoor venue or your local casino, check him out and you will not be disappointed.
It's pretty hard to imagine Journey without the signature voice of Steve Perry until you actually hear Steve Augeri sing in his place. Perry gave up performing live and in the studio with his Journey partners years ago, although he still maintains a controling share and stake in everything they do. Easily the youngest member of the band, Augeri can in fact sing quite well and after a few minutes, fans accept him as the real deal. The show is full of high tech lighting and jumbo digital video, exactly what Journey has been known for since the beginning of their success in the 1970's. Drummer Steve Smith is replaced by Dean Castranovo, but other than that, the band is virtually unchanged with Ross Valory, Neal Schon and John Cain.
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CLUB 80's
WANG CHUNG, Flock Of Seagulls, Missing Persons, Gene Loves Jezebel
July 27, 2001
Verizon Wireless Music Center
Noblesville, IN
Ticket Price: $15.00 |
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132.
Unlike the 70's Fest presented by Journey and friends just 10 days before, this 80's concert package was a little bit less successful. The attendence was pretty light overall. The pavillion was not even partially full. The concert led off with Gene Loves Jezebel, who climaxed with their hit single, Jealous. Missing Persons were just that...missing, they did not perform as scheduled. Flock of Seagulls ran through a handful of Mtv hits, including I Ran. Wang Chung closed the show and arguably had the best material from which to create a setlist. The hugely popular theme from the film, To Live and Die in L.A. was a crowd pleaser, as well as Dance Hall Days, Everybody Wang Chung Tonight and more.
133.
Craig Chaquico joined the Jefferson Starship as a teenager and is credited with the dramatic guitar intro to the classic Ride The Tiger. Chaquico was also a central part of the music and songwriting credits of the band through three decades and stuck around long enough to see many personnel changes. Eventually, the band became known simply as Starship, without founder Paul Kantner. Starship eventually ran adrift creatively. Exit Craig Chaquico. Since Starship, the guitarist has carved a far more rewarding career as a Grammy Award winning solo artist. Drawing heavily upon his native Indian heritage, Chaquico has developed an acoustic sound and style all his own. While the songs may be best delivered in the studio, his live performance here was nothing short of amazing. Craig also stuck around after the show for an informal meet & greet.
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LITTLE FEAT
August 31, 2001
Murat Theater Grounds
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: FREE |
134.
One thing that I have always noticed about Little Feat, they sometimes have a slow start, but eventually everyone gets on the same page and they just smoke as a band. During this concert, unfortunately that didn't really happen until Let It Roll. SETLIST: Rad Gumbo, One Clear Moment, Just Another Sunday, Fat Man In The Bathtub, Romance Without Finance, 44 Blues, Dixie Chicken, (Bass Solo > Keyboard Solo), Tennessee Jed/Dixie Chicken/Dark Star/Dixie Chicken, On Your Way Down, Let It Roll [Encore]: Cajun Girl
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SAMMY HAGAR & The Waboritas
January 26, 2001
Rosemont Theater
Rosemont, IL
Ticket Price: $45.00 |
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135.
This show was not at all unlike the Chicago Theater show in November 2000. The biggest difference was that the set list included more material from Montrose.
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KING CRIMSON
w/sg John Paul Jones
November 26, 2001
Murat Theater
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $29.50 |
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136.
Legendary multi-instrumentalist, John Paul Jones, brought a rather entertaining trio to perform support chores before the King Crimson concert. Jones, best known for his role in Led Zeppelin, nowadays creates somewhat gothic, industrial solo recordings on the Discipline Global Mobile record label. The music can be heard on his debut album, Zooma. The new material therein didn't stop Jones from exploring some of his past Zeppelin accomplishments during this performance. His instrumental version of When The Levee Breaks was a certain crowd pleaser, as well as his mandolin version of That's The Way and his encore featuring Black Dog.
King Crimson, comprised this time of Adrian Belew, Pat Mastelotto, Trey Gunn and of course the enigmatic Robert Fripp, led an interesting set devoted to their new release, Level 5. There was little to watch in the way of stage presence. Only a few colored lights here and there, while Fripp remained off to one edge of the stage, cloaked in the shadows. The setlist also contained a few of the all-time great KC tracks such as Elephant Talk and Red.
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THE BEARS
January 22, 2002
Phoenix Hill Tavern
Louisville, KY
Ticket Price: $13.00 |
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137.
If you have never seen or heard The Bears, you must do so. Their appearances are rare, but well worth any drive to see some masterful songwriting and really fun music. Guitarist Adrian Belew (King Crimson) is more or less the group's creative guru. The rest of the band have been Cincinnati area residents for many years and played the local club circuit there. Playing with Belew takes them up several notches as musicians, as though they have something to prove to their master. Perhaps they do. Included in this show was The Bears' cover of the King Crimson classic, Red.
138.
Another year, another Kiss Expo in Indianapolis. This year, Bruce Kulick is in town promoting his first solo album, Audio Dog. It's a strong effort, but often mimics contemporaries like Jeff Beck and Joe Satriani. Bruce favored everyone with some general Q&A, mostly about his feelings about current directions within his former group Kiss. On to the live performance, Kulick entertained the smallish crowd with a guitar clinic format from throughout his career, including Kiss, solo and his new stint with Grand Funk Railroad.
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ACE FREHLEY
BIRTHDAY BASH
April 27, 2002
Rothman Center
Hackensack, NJ
Ticket Price: $130.00 |
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139.
Should have been billed the Ace Frehley Birthday Disaster. Ace Frehley was tanked more than anyone I've ever seen. What a great way to meet your guests! As a drunk, he's obnoxious and argumentative. He shamelessly advertised his personal guitars and equipment for ludacris amounts of money. A Marshall amp would have been the equivalent to several house payments for me. Gene Simmons dropped by for an unannounced visit, which did not make an already angry Frehley much happier. After Simmons left the party, the Spaceman took to the microphone and made several disparraging comments regarding Simmons, Paul Stanley and Kiss. He swore he would never rejoin them for any reason. Neat. Drummer Eric Singer had to have nerves of steel to withstand the embarressment of the event. He and his band went onstage and performed a great show for the birthday party. About 200 guests in attendence.
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STEVE SMITH & Vital Information
April 2002
Jazz Kitchen
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $15.00 |
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140.
We attended the first of two shows that evening at the Jazz Kitchen. Former Journey drummer, Steve Smith returned to his roots with his jazz/fusion band, Vital Information. The first incarnation of this band was created on break from Journey during the 1980's. For awhile, Vital Information was a backburner project which came in second to Journey demands. Smith bounced back and forth between his rock and jazz commitments until making a permanent break from Journey, perhaps more specifically from singer Steve Perry who often accused Smith publicly as being a poor drummer. Although Vital Information has gone through a number of roster changes, they have maintained a similar core of musicians and consistently released a number of excellent albums through independent labels. The line up this night included jazz guitarist Frank Gambale, a master among master guitarists.
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SAMMY HAGAR & DAVID LEE ROTH
June 02, 2002
Verizon Wireless Music Center
Noblesville, IN
Ticket Price: $49.50 |
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141.
Sammy versus Diamond Dave for the heavyweight title. Dave took the stage first. DAVE's SETLIST: Hot for Teacher, Panama, And the Cradle Will Rock, Mean Street, Dance the Night Away, Runnin’Äô With the Devil, I’Äôm the One, Eruption (partial), You Really Got Me, Beautiful Girls, So This is Love?, Atomic Punk, Little Dreamer, (Oh) Pretty Woman, Yankee Rose, Ice Cream Man, Everybody Wants Some, Unchained, Ain’Äôt Talkin’Äô ’ÄòBout Love Encore: Jump This will most likely be Roth's last tour to perform on the big stage.
Sammy Hagar trumped the deck with Van Halen bass player Michael Anthony joining The Waboritas. SAM's SETLIST: Rock and Roll (Led Zeppelin), Runaround, Three Lock Box, There’Äôs Only One Way to Rock, Give to Live, Top of the World, Why Can’Äôt This Be Love, 5150, Poundcake, Finish What Ya Started, Eagles Fly, Little White Lies, I Can’Äôt Drive 55, Heavy Metal, Mas Tequila Encore: Dreams
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INDY JAZZ FEST
FOURPLAY, SPYRO GYRA,
YELLOWJACKETS
June 15, 2002
Military Park
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $13.00 |
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142.
This was the last of the large scale formats for the financially challenged Indianapolis / Kroger Jazz Fest. Rain plagued the troubled event each year and caused a number of financial shortcomings at the gate. We had a great day most of the afternoon with a variety of great bands, including Fourplay (Bob James and Larry Carlton). Carlton graced the auduience with several inspired solos during their set. We saw Spyro Gyra for the very first time and although I had been a SG fan in the 1980's, I have to admit that I lost touch with the band afterward. They won me back instantly. The Yellowjackets were a similar story for me. I loved their debut album which also featured the guitar talents of Robben Ford. Strings were abandoned once and for all on the second album and I lost touch until their Four Corners release. Many years have passed since then and I found them very entertaining in concert. Clouds and rain threatened the headline events. At one point, the audience was directed to take cover in the parking garages, postponing the Bruce Hornsby set.
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CONCRETE BLONDE
July 17, 2002
Birdy's
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $20.00 |
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143.
Summer concerts at Birdy's can be downright hot and uncomfortable, as this concert proved. A standing room only crowd came to hear Concrete Blonde, which luckily turned out to be a reunion of original members Johnette Napolitano and Jim Mankey. Of course, they played their biggest hit, Joey. The set included some new music from the new release, Group Therapy.
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SANTANA
w/sg Rusted Root
August 17, 2002
Verizon Wireless Music Center
Noblesville, IN
Ticket Price: $40.00 |
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144.
Touring between two very commercial releases, Santana offered a summer concert rich on material from Supernatural, as well as new music from the forthcoming Shaman release. SETLIST: Miles Intro, Adouma, Truth Don't Die, Put Your Lights On, Africa Bamba, Day Of Celebration, Victory Is Won, Rene Intro/ Maria Maria, Foo Foo, Aye Aye Aye, Spiritual / Yaleo (DENNIS SOLO), Make Somebody Happy/ Right On Be Free/ Get It In Your Soul (BENNY SOLO), Apache /Smooth / Dame Tu Amour
Rusted Root were equally impressive with a strong percussion section that complimented Santana quite well.
145.
Yet another Kiss Expo was energized by former Kiss manager, Bill Aucoin, who shared a number of interesting and anecdotal stories about the Kiss in the 1970's. Also in attendance was drummer Eric Singer who was enjoying his second stint with Kiss, although his first in make-up. Eric had replaced drummer Peter Criss when contract negotiations could not be reconciled with Criss' attorneys. Fans were divided about Singer filling the catman's shoes and make-up. The first time Criss left the band (or was fired depending on which story you believe) he was replaced by the late Eric Carr, who assumed his own unique fox persona. When Ace Frehley left a short time later, his replacement became an Egyptian god. In the history of Kiss, this was the first time that a replacement player assumed someone else's costume and face paint. Having been in Kiss during the no make-up years, Singer had quickly become a respected name among fans. You won't hear too many people say that Peter is a better drummer, because he isn't. At the end of the day, the fans get an upgrade: Eric is a better, more fit player than Peter and he's not likely to cancel dates due to injury or soreness.
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MOLLY HATCHET
August 30, 2002
Murat Theater Grounds
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: FREE |
146.
Let's see if I can put some perspective on the current Hatchet line-up. Singer Danny Joe Brown was replaced by Phil McCormack, a change necessitated by Brown's struggle with diabetes. McCormack was reportedly hand picked by Brown to continue the Hatchet legacy. Original lead Guitarists Steve Holland, Dave Hlubek and Duane Roland are now replaced by former Danny Joe Brown Band guitarist Bobby Ingram and Tim Donovan on keyboards. Russ Maxwell replaces original drummer Bruce Crump and Andy McKinney replaces former bassist Banner Thomas. In other words, not one original member of the band remains. Strangely, they do sound pretty much like the real deal however Danny Joe Brown's voice is sorely missed. Remember this is the band that took the Allman Brothers classic, Dreams and actually improved it as a cover.
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TODD RUNDGREN
August 31, 2002
Murat Theater Grounds
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: FREE |
147.
Simply awful. The outdoor area was too small for the crowd that came for two acts, the headliner was Hall & Oates. The area was roped off and there was no limit to the number of people that were allowed in. So the area itself became a problem, particularly for shorter people. We stayed for Todd Rundgren and although I've been a casual fan of his many projects over the decades, this was nota good performance. The sound was terrible.
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YELLOWJACKETS
w/sg Euge Groove
January 10, 2003
Murat Egyptian Room
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $32.00 |
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148.
Euge Groove is easily one of this generation's smooth jazz sax heroes. He's been nominated for Grammy's on both of his first two releases and he continues to impress me with his melodic and pop approach to jazz. As Yellowjackets saxophonist Bill Mintzer commented to the audience however, EG is a different brand of jazz than his Yellowjackets, who were exceptional if not a bit stiff on stage.
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THE CHIEFTAINS
w/sg Allison Moorer
February 02, 2003
Clowes Hall
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $26.00 |
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149.
Clowes Hall at Butler University is an acoustically superior venue to be sure. The legendary Chieftains made the afternoon concert very worthwhile, with plenty of celtic tradition, dance and song. Guest vocalist Allison Moorer performed along with the Chieftains.
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THE PRETENDERS
w/sg All Mighty Senators
February 13, 2003
Murat Theater
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $30.00 |
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150.
Chrissie Hynde and her Pretenders were on target with a firm delivery of career spanning hits, including highlights from their latest album, Loose Screw, an obvious tongue in cheek reference to Hynde herself. The new album is quite good and her selection of songs from it were appropriate for the 30 or 40 something audience.
The All Mighty Senators are not on the verge of breaking as the newest rock sensation, but they were an interesting bunch from Baltimore. Fronted by a singer who seemed to take a few pages from Prince's book, AMS showed influences from pop and funk backgrounds.
151.
This was a new venue for the Kiss Expo Indy and the format was a little bit different, but the guest was the same Bruce Kulick, this time supporting his newest solo release, Transformer. Bruce of course handled the traditional Q&A, no doubt answering many of the same questions each year, asked by different fans, What was it like working with Gene? Why didn't they ask him to replace Ace in make-up? Would he have done it if they asked? etc. The guitar clinic was very good, as Kulick offered a number of live samples from his new studio release.
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SAMMY HAGAR & The Waboritas
May 19, 2003
Battery Park
New York, NY
Ticket Price: FREE |
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152.
Using rented equipment and without the benefit of time for a proper soundcheck, the sound had to be mixed and balanced on the fly. This was a benefit show for NYC Firefighters. Only 20 months after 9/11, Mayor Bloomberg wanted to close some of the fire stations in Lower Manhattan - which seemed absolutely ludicrous given the sensitivity to terrorism and the pride New Yorkers had in their heroes. It was pretty awesome of Sammy to fly out there and help the FD round up some needed support to show the Mayor that budget cuts needed to come from elsewhere. Sammy and Mona were kind enough to sign autographs for me and the weather was outstanding! As you can see from the handful of photos I took, this was a very friendly affair, no real security and you could just walk right up to Sammy and chat. By the way, this show was unbelievably LOUD! SETLIST: Little White Lie, Right Now, I Can't Drive 55, Mas Tequila, Heavy Metal
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ASIA
w/sg The Lec Zorn Project
July 13, 2003
The House Music Cafe
Indianapolis, IN
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153.
This was a unique event where Asia offered their services to be scheduled by fans across America for $3,000 plus expenses. The venue was The House, located just outside Glendale Mall. Including the lucky fan who brought his favorite band to town, only about 20 people were in attendance making for an intimate show. The concert presentation was acoustic and simple, featuring only John Payne and Geoff Downes. Both gentlemen stayed after the show to talk one on one with the small audience and sign autographs. Lec Zorn was deplorable. It was embarrassing to watch.
NOTE: Incidentally, Lec Zorn read this review and contacted me to reconsider my review. He mentioned the fact that this was the first time they worked with that singer, etc, etc, which to me sounds like excuses, excuses. But the bottom line is this - these guys were not ready for a small Sunday afternoon coffeehouse show, much less prime time. I don't get paid to write these reviews and I generally don't get free tickets. I paid for this show just like everybody else. I attended the show with two friends and we all independently had the same reaction: A.) an embarrassingly small show for Downes and Payne to play - although very cool to have been a part of something so intimate B.) LZP was so bad that they were humiliating for the viewer to sit through. So, I stand by my review 100% - If I had to cringe in the seat I paid for, Lec can be uncomfortable with the review that I provide at no charge.
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BOSTON
July 13, 2003
Verizon Wireless Music Center
Noblesville, IN
Ticket Price: $10.00 |
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154.
After leaving the small but intimate Asia concert, we hustled our way up to Verzon Wireless Music Center in Noblesville to catch 70's iconic rockers, Boston. The crowd was obviously much larger, easily 13,000 or more. Tom Scholz and company provided a lengthy setlist, derived from their many hits and a fair portion of the new album, Corporate America. No opening act, just Boston.
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SAMMY HAGAR & The Wabos
July 16, 2003
Murat Theater
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $39.50 |
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155.
The only thing wrong with this concert was the sound level was distorted. SETLIST: One Way To Rock , Shaka Doobie (The Limit) , Three Lock Box , Everybody Must Get Stoned, Top of the World, Rock Candy, Let Sally Drive, Bad Motor Scooter, (Mona bass solo / Sammy jams) Bad Motor Scooter, Hallelujah, Right Now, Deeper Kind of Love, Finish What Ya Started, Little White Lies, Dreams, I Can't Drive 55, Mas Tequila Encore: Why Can't This Be Love, Heavy Metal
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BLUES ON THE AVENUE
featuring John Hiatt and Johnny A
August 23, 2003
Massachusetts Avenue
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $10.00 |
156.
Excellent weather for this outdoor event brought a sizable crowd. The make shift venue was actually a stage at the end of a street lined with old brick warehouse building. This created a lot of echo for the sound, which was actually easier to hear from outside the festival. Food and beverage tents were almost impossible to reach, due to the arrangement of crowds and lines. The event was something of a homecoming for Indianapolis native John Hiatt, who played an all acoustic set. Had this concert been held at a club or theater, the sound would probably have been great, but the situation as it was turned out to be a debacle for audience and performers alike.
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KANSAS
August 29, 2003
Murat Theater Grounds
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: FREE |
157.
Any band with as many years history and success as Kansas has it's share of personnel changes. At the height of their career, co-front men Kerry Livgren and Steve Walsh took turns leaving and returning to active duty. This no doubt contributed to the long decline. Dixie Dregs guitarist Steve Morse was recruited for at least one tour of duty with the band and there have been many other changes as well. Health issues have also taken their toll on the band from middle America. The line up for this show included long time fan favorite, Steve Walsh. Although Walsh's voice is not up to the task of rreaching notes he once recorded, he gave an impressive effort. Livgren was absent, although violinist Robby Steinhart and guitarist Rich Williams were in prime form.
158.
A concert featuring any group of bands performing in small midwestern towns is usually an omen for a sub-par performance. Such was the case here for at least two thirds of this event. Beginning with Atlanta Rhythm Section, a band I have long waited to see live, one might anticipate an hour set to include the five or seven most popular songs in the repetoire. Instead, the band focused on their most recent released, one that I later found out was a couple years old. Of course no one had heard it and could therefore not relate to the songs. They did play Champagne Jam and a few other known classics.
Bachman Turner Overdrive, or BTO as they are currently billed without Randy Bachman sounded great. Easily the oldest codgers to be on stage that night, they had more energy and more flash than the other two. Wisely, their set concentrated on the hits they are widely known for, as well as a stunning cover of House of the Rising Sun.
Foreigner was technically only Lou Gramm as far as anyone could tell. Oddly enough, Mick Jones and his other mates tour under the same Foreigner banner without Lou Gramm. I thought something seemed a little strange when this date was not noted on Foreigner's official web page under tour dates. I sat pretty far back from the stage, it appeared as though Gramm had packed on a little weight and grown a beard. We managed to get closer and I discovered that I was only half correct. He had gained weight, but no beard, just double chins. Instead of Hot Blooded, he should have been singing Hot Blubber. Behind Gramm, the non-Foreigner support band appeared to be younger than their leader by several years. This was not a particularly good performance.
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LONG ROAD TO CABO DVD Release Party
with SAMMY HAGAR & The Wabos
September 15, 2003
Funny Bones Comedy CLub
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: FREE |
159.
Local radio station WFBQ was promoting a 25th Anniversary Concert with Lynyrd Skynyrd, 38 Special and Jackyl. When one of the members of LS was placed on medical leave, the southern rockers had to cancel. Sammy Hagar was recruited to fill the top bill and the timing coincided with the release of his new DVD, The Long Road To Cabo. Arrangements were made at a northside comedy club to host a preview party with Hagar and his band the Waboritas in attendance. The DVD was great, but Hagar and band were delayed at the airport and could not make the party. They did arrive at the very end, said a few words to the fans and swiftly left out the back exit.
160.
This concert was initially intended to be a southern rock hoedown featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd in the headline slot. Sammy Hagar agreed to fill in when the southern rockers had to cancel. We missed Jackyl, much to my dismay. 38 Special sounded as though they were trying hard to rekindle what spark they may have had back in the 1980's. Sammy Hagar stole the show (as expected). SETLIST: One Way To Rock, Rainy Day Women (Everybody Must Get Stoned), Three Lock Box, Best of Both Worlds, Top of the World, I'll Fall in Love Again, Shaka Doobie (The Limit), Rock Candy, Hallelujah, Right Now, Deeper Kind of Love, Little White Lie, Eagles Fly, Dreams, I Can't Drive 55, Mas Tequila [Encore]: Heavy Metal
161.
The only time I had previously seen JB live was at Farm Aid IV in 1990, so I was really looking forward to this acoustic appearance in such a great venue. Although far beyond Browne's control, venue policies and the audience combined to detract from the quality of the concert. The Murat Center bar remained open during the show and beverages were permitted inside the theater. This encouraged the many boomer aged drinkers to habitually come and go for more beverages during the show. The traffic back and forth was so obvious in fact that Jackson Brown at one point asked the ushers to keep the theater doors closed. This wasn't the only thing going wrong for the concert. Browne, who had worked on the much publicized final album from the late Warren Zevon, attempted to pay tribute to his friend by covering a different Zevon song each night of the tour. Unfortunately, there really wasn't much rehearsal put into preparing to do the song live and the tribute was plagued with mistakes on both the music and lyrics. Other than these issues, the concert was quite good, featuring numerous songs from throughout Browne's long career.
162.
Another in the annual expo series presented by Kiss Freaks and Kiss Shop. This year's event featured Bruce Kulick (again) and his older brother Bob Kulick. Bob is credited with several studio appearances for Kiss, including work on Destroyer and the original side 4 of Alive II. In addition, Bob's guitar playing resumˆ© includes work with Meatloaf on his famous Bat Out Of Hell album and many other heavy rock albums. Both guests were available for autographs and photos.
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DAVID BOWIE
w/sg Stereophonics
May 20, 2004
Murat Theater
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $51.00 |
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163.
This was a very well rehearsed and produced show with all the hits. It's pretty much exactly like the DVD release: Reality Tour.
SETLIST: Rebel Rebel, Cactus, Sister Midnight, New Killer Star, All The Young Dudes, China Girl, The Loneliest Guy, The Man Who Sold The World, Pablo Picasso, Sunday, Heathen (The Rays), Hallo Spaceboy, Under Pressure, Reality, Ashes To Ashes, Quicksand, The Supermen, Modern Love, White Light White Heat, I'm Afraid Of Americans, Heroes Encore: Hang On To Yourself, Suffragette City, Ziggy Stardust
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LARRY CARLTON
June 11, 2004
B.B. King Theater
New York, NY
Ticket Price: $30.00 |
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164.
Smallish crowd in attendance for a true guitar great. Grammy winner, Larry Carlton and band settled in for the first of two shows. Carlton, wearing jeans, a v-neck undershirt and sneakers, was casual and warm. The Sapphire Blues Band was a great addition to the act, with a complete horn section. Included in the set were fan favorites Josie (Steely Dan) and Minute By Minute (Doobie Brothers). Mr. Carlton stayed around after the show to sign autographs for a handful of fans.
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JEM
w/sg Lunar Event
June 28, 2004
Birdy's
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $8.00 |
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165.
Never heard of the artsist Jem before, but learned that she had been one of the first artists to sign with David Matthews ATO Records. The slight framed, happy go-lucky Welch singer found a small, but enthusiastic crowd at Birdy's in Indianapolis. Although her work has often been compared to Dido, the comparison may be a bit unfair considering Jem's affinity for reggae beats and even a few extended jams with her band. There were probably no more than 125 people in attendance, many of whom stuck around after the show for a meet and greet.
Indianapolis band, Lunar Event offered a short set of original songs, many of which might be compared to The Church or even more modern alternative acts such as Garbage.
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VAN HALEN REUNION
w/sg Silvertide
July 01, 2004
Verizon Wireless Music Center
Noblesville, IN
ILAA VIP Ticket Price: $395.00 |
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166.
Limited edition ticket purchased through ILAA (iloveallaccess.com) provided fan access to soundcheck, pre-show party, backstage area tour, limited edition shirt, laminate, cap and seat in the first ten rows. My ticket happened be dead center in row eight, excellent seat. ILAA e-mailed me one week prior to the concert with specific instructions where to meet, when, etc. They were well organized and the event ran smoothly for about 75 fans in our group. Food and beverages were provided in a hospitality pavilion. Scallops wrapped in bacon, chicken strips and spicey meatballs were among the many buffet items. Cold Heineken and Coors products were also well stocked on ice for us. We were divided into two groups to tour the backstage area, which lasted about 15 minutes. Michael Anthony greeted everyone, although other band members were secluded in their dressing rooms. Soundcheck was really cool. The whole band came out to welcome us. There we were, right up at the front of the stage. Eddie, Alex and Michael warmed up while Sammy Hagar chatted with fans and signed autographs. Ultimately, everyone signed autographs except Eddie who refused to sign anything for anyone. Back to work, Eddie jammed on several classic Van Halen nuggets. Hot For Teacher (intro), Cathedral, Spanish Fly, and of course Eruption were crowd pleasers. The guitar and drum core also worked on the rhythm section of one of the new tracks, It's About Time before wrapping up. Back at the hospitality pavilion, food and beverage were replentished.
Silvertide took the stage at about 7:30. Their 45 minute set sounded a little bit like Black Crowes vocals with early AC/DC guitar riffs. Very cool band.
Van Halen took the stage at 8:30 and stormed through a career spanning setlist. Sammy adorned himself with whatever articles fans threw onstage at him. At one point, he sported a red and black Indy 500 T-shirt and later traded it for an Indianapolis Colts jersey. SETLIST: Runaround, Humans Being, Up For Breakfast, Bass Solo, Somebody Get Me A Doctor, Poundcake, It's About Time, Drum Solo, Top Of The World, Unchained, Why Can't This Be Love, Eagles Fly, Deeper Kinda Love, Seventh Seal, Best Of Both Worlds, Eddie Solo, Dreams, Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love, Right Now, Finish What Ya Started, Panama, When It's Love.
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CROSBY STILLS & NASH
July 10, 2004
The Lawn at White River State Park
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $45.00 |
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167.
This was my first time attending a concert at The Lawn, a new outdoor venue in downtown Indianapolis. Very nice. CSN managed about 5 relatively disjointed songs before the eather became a threatening factor. A serious storm system just a few miles to our north providing some interesting skies with plenty of lightning and thunder. The audience was asked to evacuate the area and take cover in the nearby underground parking garage. After about 45 minutes, the storm passed over without a drop of rain and clouds began to give way to starry skies. The concert resumed and the band connected a little better following the break. Lots of classics including Woodstock, Wooden Ships, Deja Vu, Helplessly Hoping and the Buffalo Springfield classic, For What It's Worth. The set also included some new songs from the upcoming Crosby/Nash CD. The concert continued until 11:00 pm sharp.
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STING
w/sg Annie Lennox, Dominic Miller
July 23, 2004
Verizon Wireless Music Center
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: $35.00 |
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168.
Make no mistake, this was Annie Lennox' night to shine and she did just that. Lennox performed about a 90 minute set consisting of new music from her latest release Naked, along with other solo career gems. She also performed a few of her classic Eurythmics songs, some re-arranged in a new and fresh, yet familiar presentation.
Clearly the evening's main attraction was Sting, who joined guitarist Dominic Miller for one song early in the evening before the crowd had even taken seats. Miller, showcasing his own guitar virtuosity in a short set to open the concert, performed songs from his new release, Shades. Dominic Miller, originally from Argentina, has been Sting's primary guitarist and song-writing partner for over 9 years.
Sting was somehow less than impressive. The set was oddly devised to illude the main stream fans. Focusing on several tracks from his latest release, Sacred Love, the delivery was stale and lacked enthusiasm. The Brand New Day tour had several new solid tracks to boast. Unfortunately, Sacred Love is deprived of catchy songs. The more familiar Police hit, Synchronicity II suffered from inconsistent timing and poorly delivered vocals. Another Police era classic, Roxanne, was extended to a roughly 15 minute jam, venturing off into a verse of Invisble Sun, before meandering back to Roxanne for closure. In all of Sting's career, one would hardly be challenged to devise a better setlist than the one presented here tonight.
169.
Riverbend Music Center in August/September can be one of the hottest points in the universe, as was the case for Curiosa Festival. The heat and humidity combined for a drenched affair. The shows were well organized on two stages, allowing spectators to see most bands. The Cure, Interpol, The Rapture and Mogwai occupied the main stage, while I found the more interesting acts to be over on the second stage, Thursday, Muse, Auf der Maur and The Cooper Temple Clause. Muse was far more interesting as a live act than I find them to be on their studio recordings. Melissa Auf der Maur and her band just rocked and The Cooper Temple Clause was a very good live act as well. I wasn't particularly impressed with Mogwai or The Rapture, although Interpol was a good band. The Cure was about what I expected them to be as headliner of the festival.
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BLUE OYSTER CULT / FOGHAT
September 03, 2004
Military Park
Indianapolis, IN
Ticket Price: FREE |
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170.
The 1970's powerhouse rockband, Foghat, can still rock and roll. Easily great-grandfathers by now, the foursome touring the U.S. displays the boogie and slide guitar signatures like seasoned pros. The setlist, comprised primarily of classics like Slow Ride, Home In My Hands, Drivin' Wheel, Stone Blue and crowd favorite I just Want To Make Love To You, also included unnecessary new songs from their current CD, Family Joules. The repetitive Self Medicated could easily have been traded for more of their classic material, for which the crowd could not get enough. No material was used from post hayday albums such as Boogie Motel, Zig Zag Walk, Loose Shoes, etc. No longer an original group of members, Foghat is now lead by vocalist Charlie Huhn (formerly a singer with Ted Nugent's band during the 80's). Huhn replaces the late "Lonesome Dave" Peverett and brings a rawness back to the band that had been missing during the pop-infused 1980's era. Impressive slide guitar is supplied by Bryan Bassett (former guitarist from Wild Cherry and a later incarnation of Molly Hatchet). The rhythm section is still held down by originals Tony Stevens and Roger Earl. The band played an impressive 110 minutes and obliged fans with autographs shortly following the show.
Blue Oyster Cult, another 70's powerhouse who amassed several U.S. tours, performed immediately following Foghat. Although perennial favorites of the 70's and early 1980's, Blue Oyster Cult had fewer hit singles than Foghat. Their brand of comic book and sci-fi infused lyrics attracted a niche following during the 70's which failed to grow in later decades, not unlike Foghat. Most reknowned for their classics such as Godzilla, Don't Fear The Reaper, and Burning For You, only the true fans are familiar with their 30 year discography.
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VAN HALEN REUNION
w/sg Jonas
November 11, 2004
Memorial Coliseum
Fort Wayne, IN
Ticket Price: $75.00 |
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171.
Despite many troubles within this band, they seemed to be getting along really well on stage in Ft Wayne. Lots of smiles, hand slappin', high fives, butt slappin' - a much improved vibe than a few months back in Indianapolis. By now, this tour has been on the road since June 2004 and performed 80+ shows. The guys are tired, no doubt about it. They still kicked ass for sure. Eddie's guitar work was brilliant, at times downright genius. Sammy, Mikey, Al...everybody looked healthy, loose and sounded good.
SETLIST: Jump, Runaround, Humans Being, Up For Breakfast, Bass Solo, Somebody Get Me A Doctor, Poundcake, It's About Time, Drum Solo, Top Of The World, Unchained, Why Can't This Be Love, Eagles Fly, Can't Drive 55, Seventh Seal, Best Of Both Worlds, Eddie Solo, Dreams, Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love, Right Now, You Really Got Me, Panama, When It's Love. |
