Wednesday, October 4th was an unseasonably warm fall evening in Niagara Falls, Ontario, at Fallsview Casino. Keanu Reeves with his band Dogstar staged an outstanding performance that left no one in doubt about the memories it created. There was only one opening act, the group Archer Oh who hailed from the state of California.
Archer Oh
Dogstar consists of Keanu Reeves on bass. Robert Jailhouse on drums and Bret Dormouse on guitar and lead vocals.
As the lights lowered and excitement rose in the crowds, the members of Dogstar made their way into the stage with a powerful force that attracted viewers at first instance. Not only a great actor, Reeves showed himself to be a talented musician. The chemistry in the band was unmistakably good as they shifted from song to another with ease exhibiting their musical talent. The line-up came just at the right time for die-hard fans, who were looking forward to hearing all Dogstar’s old numbers which prompted many to sing and dance along.
Tracks such as ‘Lust’ and ‘Sleep’ were exemplary of a fusion between alternative-rock and grunge elements in the band’s music. The evening was not dull even for a moment. Reeves bass tone was haunting enough to send shakes into the bones of every listener. He interacted with the audience and made it seem as if they were participating in a unique happening.
There was a strong link between the band and its followers, making it possible for a large number of people in the venue to have an intimate environment. When the night finally ended, Dogstar received thunderous applause and shouts of ‘one more’ as they departed the stage. The audience could hardly wait for the encore from the duo who made their way back to finish the night in grand style, giving the audience four more songs.
Dogstar 2023 Tour Dates 10/08 Atlantic City, NJ – Sound Waves at Hard Rock Hotel 10/10 Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre 10/11 New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place 11/30 Los Angeles, CA – Troubadour 12/03 San Francisco, CA – The Great American Music Hall 12/05 Sacramento, CA – Crest Theatre 12/07 Chicago, IL – Thalia Hall 12/08 Detroit, MI – The Majestic Theatre 12/09 Toronto, ON – Lee’s Palace 12/11 Brooklyn, NY – Music Hall of Williamsburg 12/12 Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club 12/14 Philadelphia, PA – Underground Arts 12/15 Washington, D.C. – The Howard Theatre 12/16 Norfolk, VA – The NorVa 12/18 Charlotte, NC – The Underground 12/19 Atlanta, GA – Center Stage 12/20 Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl 12/21 Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl
GWAR have released a 10th Anniversary Edition of Battle Maximus. fully remixed and remastered, this edition features the final recorded vocal performance of Oderus Urungus on the previously unreleased and never-before heard song “Tammy, The Swine Queen.”
10 years have passed since the release of GWAR’s masterwork known as Battle Maximus, which served as a tribute to fallen Scumdog Warrior Flattus Maximus (AKA Corey Smoot) and was also the last album recorded with vocalist Oderus Urungus (AKA Dave Brockie) before he departed the planet Earth in 2014.
“Musically, ‘Battle Maximus’ is a great debut work by Pustulus Maximus, and lyrically, it is the final word of lead singer and band founder Oderus Urungus, The record is run through with the desperate, dangerous, and fully bananas imagination of Oderus. In fact, this re-release includes a song so nutty we named it twice, and then promptly forgot to put it on the record the first time around. ‘Tammy, Queen of Dirt,’ or, ‘Tammy the Swine Queen’ is the final performance of the maestro of mayhem, Oderus Urungus, and for our fans, it does not disappoint,”
Blothar the Berserker
This Fall, GWAR declares war on humanity (again) on their upcoming “Age of Imbeciles” Tour. The infamous Lords and Masters of Shock Rock will return to the road wreaking havoc, and laying waste to audiences across the US and Canada this Fall. Shows in New York include at the Palladium Times Square and The Rapids Theatre in Niagara Falls.
The tour features support from Negative Approach, X-Cops and Cancer Christ on select dates. A complete list of dates can be found below.
A night of metal mayhem engulfed the Rapids Theater in Niagara Falls on Friday, August 25th as the thunderous sounds of Jinjer and Until I Wake reverberated through the venue. This marked a historic moment for both bands. With a fervent crowd, it was a night that showcased the raw power of metal and the unifying force of music.
Local pride was on full display as Until I Wake, hailing from Buffalo, took the stage. This homecoming show held special significance for the band, and they made sure to make every second count. Despite a brief almost 30 minute set, they unleashed an explosive barrage of sound, captivating the audience with tracks like “Inside my Head,” “Still Sinking,” and their latest hit “Cold.” Alex Curtin’s thunderous drumming, August Geitner’s electrifying guitar work, Cody Jamison Johnson’s compelling vocals, and Ryan Ridley’s driving bass formed an unstoppable sonic assault. It’s clear that Until I Wake is a force to be reckoned with, and this performance was just a glimpse of their promising future as headliners.
As the anticipation reached its zenith, Jinjer, all the way from Donetsk, Ukraine, took command of the stage. This marked a monumental moment for the band as they graced the WNY area for the first time. Despite the distance from home, Jinjer’s energy was unwavering, fueled by the crowd’s enthusiastic reception. The setlist was a sonic journey through their repertoire, with hits like “Perennial”, “I Speak Astronomy” and a thunderous finale in “Sit Stay Roll Over.”
Tetiana Shmailyuk- Vocals
Tetiana Shmailyuk, the commanding presence at the forefront, effortlessly switched between guttural growls and melodic harmonies, a testament to her vocal prowess and dynamic stage presence. Roman Ibramkhalilov’s guitar riffs cut through the air like a scythe, while Eugene Abdukhanov’s basslines resonated deep within the chest. Vladislav Ulasevich’s drumming served as the backbone of the performance, driving the music forward with unrelenting force and time shattering blast beats.
The band’s communication was concise but impactful, allowing the music to speak volumes. The crowd reciprocated the energy, creating a frenzy of mosh pits that pulsed in time with the music. Shmailyuk’s interactions with the audience demonstrated a deep connection, as if their souls were intertwined through the music.
The Rapids Theater felt alive that night, pulsating with the energy of metal enthusiasts who had waited eagerly for this experience. Jinjer’s performance was a testament to their growing stature in the metal scene, as evidenced by the near-capacity crowd that bore witness to their sonic onslaught.
As the night came to a close, it was evident that both Jinjer and Until I Wake had left an indelible mark on the Rapids Theater and the hearts of everyone present in Niagara Falls. The concert was a triumphant celebration of metal’s unifying power, and a harbinger of even greater things to come for both bands.
On the heels of 2022’s Brightside album, the The Lumineers have hit the road again. August 22, with James Bay joining the fray, they made their way to Darien Lake Amphitheatre for an evening of Americana music.
After playing small gigs, open mic nights, and struggling to make ends meet under various monikers, The Lumineers were “formed” when an emcee misspoke during an introduction. Although Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites had been playing together since 2002, a working name never really happened until this mishap.
12 years after their first single, “Ho Hey” was released, The Lumineers now have 4 studio albums, 4 headliner tours, and millions of fans worldwide, in addition to a couple Grammy nominations. Of those millions of fans, a plethora of them showed up for the show at Darien Lake and sang their hearts out.
Before they were able to sing along with Jeremiah and Wesley, fans were treated to 40-minute set from English songwriter, James Bay. Very subdued in his own right, Bay had the attention of the fans who were filing into their seats in anticipation of the nights headliner.
With 3 albums and a couple EPs to his name, Bay has been nominated for a montage of music awards and has won a 7 British music awards since 2015, including Best New Act, Breakthrough Solo Artist, and Best British Solo Artist. Around 7:30pm, he let the crowd know why he has won those awards.
Classic Americana style, Bay rocked his guitar as he opened his set with “Best Fake Smile”. A song seemingly about standing up for yourself and having a voice, topics very prevalent in society.
No, you don’t have to wear your best fake smile Don’t have to stand there and burn inside Oh, oh, oh If you don’t like it
Although an opening act, the fans reactions and ability to follow along make it clear that he is a respected musician and very much a headlining act on his own.
After a 45-minute break to reset the stage and get things in order, the stage goes dark. Intermittently, we get some loud drums from the loudspeakers, timed up with stage lights to welcome The Lumineers. This goes on for about a minute or so as anticipation builds for the band make an entrance. Cell phones up high hoping to catch a glimpse or record a video clip, fans were eager.
Finally, a few minutes later, you can see an entourage of silhouettes making their way into position. The time has come to go nuts. Lights go on across the stage set and Wesley Schultz and crew announce their arrival with 2016s “Cleopatra,” “Flowers in Your Hair,” and the big “Ho Hey.”
With a stage full of musicians, there was never a shortage of entertainment to keep an eye on, or at least try to. Jeremiah Fraites ( drums/percussion, piano, mandolin, vocals), Stelth Ulvang (piano, keys, accordion, mandolin, guitar, percussion, vocals), Byron Isaacs (bass, guitar, vocals), Brandon Miller (guitar, mandolin, percussion), and Lauren Jacobsen (strings, piano, vocals). This line up screams excitement, and The Lumineers brought it all night long, with each musician displaying their talents. There wasn’t a single person here that didn’t bring the energy, and they all had a blast on stage.
Covering a good set of shows at Darien Lake this summer, I have heard some loud fans singing along with the acts. But, let me tell you this. The fans for this show blew everyone else away. There was no competition. During at least three songs, the crowd was so loud, it nearly drowned out the act on stage. Songs like “Gloria” and “Ophelia” were echoed right back to Wesley and Jeremiah as they belted out the lyrics.
Combining pop with classic Americana and a little bluegrass may not seem the norm. However, this group of amazing artists have been making it work for several years now, and there doesn’t seem to be an end in sight. Wesley as gathered a strong support group around him and Jeremiah and the cohesive chemistry you see on the stage is flawless. While I have heard the music before, I would have never called myself a fan. After seeing the performance with nearly 20 thousand other fans, I am hooked. Stage presence, subtle sounds, and high energy are keys to a good show, and The Lumineers put all of that and then some on display.
Set list: Cleopatra, Flowers in Your Hair, Ho Hey, Angela, WHERE ARE WE, Dead Sea, A.M. Radio, My Cell, Slow it Down, Charlie Boy, BRIGHTSIDE, Gloria, Sleep on The Floor, Ophelia, Leader of the Landslide/You Can’t Always Get What You Want, Salt and Sea, Birthday, Big Parade, Donna, Submarines, Remington, Reprise, Stubborn Love
Friday, August 18th was a chilly summer evening. Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls transformed into a haven of country music enchantment as the iconic Brad Paisley took the stage.
Despite the uncharacteristically cold breeze that swept through the outdoor venue, Paisley’s fiery performance warmed the hearts of all in attendance. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as the clock struck 8pm. The night unfurled with a symphony of soul-stirring melodies that echoed against the backdrop of the cascading falls.
Paisley, a virtuoso of the six-string, began his sonic journey with the precision and charisma that have cemented his status as a true guitar maestro. The strings of his guitar seemed to sing in harmony with his soul, transcending the chill in the air and enveloping the audience in a cocoon of musical warmth. With each strum, Paisley painted vibrant stories of life, love, and heartache, showcasing his prowess as both a gifted lyricist and an instrumental virtuoso.
A true highlight of the evening came when Paisley honored the valiant members of the military. In a poignant display of gratitude, he invited these heroes onto the stage, creating an atmosphere of unity and reverence. As he strummed the opening chords of a poignant ballad, the stage became a canvas of emotions, painting a vivid picture of resilience and sacrifice. The crowd stood united in heartfelt applause, their spirits lifted by the power of music to transcend barriers and celebrate the human spirit.
Throughout the evening, Paisley effortlessly navigated his extensive repertoire, treating fans to a spellbinding 23-song setlist that spanned the breadth of his illustrious career. From chart-topping hits that had the crowd swaying in unison, to soulful ballads that hushed the venue to a reverent silence, Paisley has the ability to wield his guitar as an extension of his very soul.
As the night unfurled its final moments, and Paisley bid his farewells under the moonlit sky, the air was filled with a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. Despite the nip in the air, the crowd left the venue with spirits soaring and hearts aglow, having experienced a musical journey that transcended the ordinary.
Brad Paisley’s performance at the Seneca Niagara Casino was a masterclass in musical finesse and a heartfelt homage to those who serve. With his deft guitar work and emotive storytelling, Paisley took a cold and windy night and turned it into a warm tapestry of sonic artistry. As the echoes of his final chords faded into the night, it was clear that this evening would be etched into the memories of all fortunate enough to bear witness to his musical magic.
Rock’s finest were on display on Aug. 5 at Artpark in Lewiston, as Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit took the stage, with S.G. Goodman opening. The band was touring in support of their recent release, Weathervanes.
It has been quite the journey for Jason Isbell. The former Drive By Truckers guitarist left the band in 2007 to pursue a solo career. He writes often about his sobriety journey that he started in 2012 in hopes of serving as an inspiration for others. He is often lauded as one of this generation’s best songwriters. While performing with the 400 Unit, he is backed by Sadler Vaden (guitars), Derry DeBorja (keyboards, accordion), Chad Gamble (drums) and Will Johnson (guitar, percussion). Longtime 400 Unit bass-player Jimbo Hart sat this tour out due to personal reasons.
Jason Isbell performs at the Artpark in Lewiston.
The evening would open with a set by S.G. Goodman. Promptly at 8 pm Goodman’s bandmates took to the stage and jumped right in to the groovy “Work Until I Die.” After a lengthy instrumental introduction, Goodman took to the stage and the song’s indie garage-rock sound took off. Goodman, from Hickman, Kentucky, joked with the crowd between songs. “I’m sure by the sound of my voice, you can tell I’m not from around here,” she said with a laugh and a heavy southern accent. Goodman’s songwriting really shined, as she performed tracks like “Space and Time,” a song recently covered by Tyler Childers. As the set came to a close, Goodman paid tribute to Waylon Jennings, with a cover of “Waymore’s Blues.”
S.G. Goodman performs at the Artpark in Lewiston.
At promptly 9:10 the house lights dimmed and Isbell’s familiar anchor-dove logo illuminated above the stage. Moments later Isbell and his bandmates took the stage and immediately launched into the crunchy guitar riff of “When We Were Close,” a track chronicling Isbell’s friendship with the late Justin Townes Earle. The crowd quickly stood to their feet and their energy began to build like a pot of water coming to a boil, coming to a complete boil by the third song, “King of Oklahoma.” The powerful, anthemic song saw the audience sing back the song’s chorus in near deafening fashion.
Jason Isbell performs at the Artpark in Lewiston.
As the evening moved on, Isbell’s strength as a song writer became more and more apparent. He has the ability to place the listener directly into the scene of the song, while singing songs dealing with not only his own personal struggles, but issues plaguing society as a whole. The song “Save the World” touches on the need for gun law reform, while “King of Oklahoma” tells the tale of the protagonist struggling with a painkiller addiction. Then, there are more personal songs to Isbell like “Cover Me Up” which addresses coming to sobriety, and Isbell grappling with his own mortality in “If We Were Vampires.”
Sadler Vaden performs at the Artpark in Lewiston
Isbell and his bandmates shined musically through out the evening as well, with Isbell and Vaden often trading guitar solos. Derry DeBorja added unique layers of sound with his keyboard and accordion playing. Perhaps the pinnacle moment of the evening was the band’s performance of “Miles.” The song, reminiscent of a Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young track, saw layers of sound build upon each other and featured dual percussion, with Gamble and Johnson both taking seats behind a kit. This only further drove the song’s intensity, which peaked with the crash of a gong.
Jason Isbell performs at the Artpark in Lewiston
Like all good things, this evening had to come to a close. The band closed with “This Ain’t It,” which saw Isbell and Vaden partaking in one last guitar solo dual, much to the crowd’s delight. It was a fitting way to close an evening of classic rock sounds.
Luke Bryan gets his Country On at Darien Lake as his 4 month long tour makes stop in Western NY. Coming off a boisterous and packed house in Syracuse, Bryan coasted into Darien Lake Theme Park with special guests Alana Springsteen (no relation to the famous New Jersey guy), Chayce Beckham, and Tyler Braden.
With over 15 million album sales under his belt, 30 #1 hits, and 20 billion streams, the native of Georgia is no stranger to success and the crowds that come with it. The packed house at this Live Nation venue in Corfu, NY was proof of that as the crowd was on their feet for his entire set, singing along to nearly every word.
Opening the night for Bryan was Alana Springsteen. Newer to the music scene, Springsteen has released a few EPs since her debut in 2019, and in July 2023 will be releasing TWENTY SOMETHING: Figuring It Out. The first single, “When We Were Friends”, was just released this week and of course she belted it out for the crowd at Darien Lake. The song is about hardships among friends which many can and will relate to.
Used to wear each other’s sneakers // Get drunk behind the bleachers // Raise some hell, but we always said amen // I knew who you were kissin’ // What tattoo you were gettin’ // Now I don’t even know how you’ve been // Truth is, I miss when // When we were friends
A little Miranda Lambert, a little Chirstina Aguilera, and a whole lot of fire, Springsteen sang her heart our for about 25 minutes, preparing the fans for who was following her.
Next up to the stage, came Chayce Beckham. Imagine being a forklift operator and deciding to enter a singing competition on national television. Imagine being told by Katy Perry that you “sound like the heart of America”. Imaging singing a song you wrote and having that be the reason you won American Idol. This was the path that led Chayce Beckham to where he is now. He no longer is a forklift operator.
Serenading young and old alike, Beckham confidently kicked some ass on this stage, getting some hand shakes and fist bumps from fans. Sultry voice, with some slicked back hair, thoughts of early Johnny Cash, and maybe some Chris Isaak are sure to enter your mind as this 27 year old belts out lyrics from his song “23”
Following Beckham, Tyler Braden strutted around on the stage for another 25 minute set. The former firefighter has been raising eyebrows for about 7 years as he makes his presence know. Go watch him on stage for one set, and you will be forever hooked. Luke Combs-esque looks and smooth vocals will make Braden a household name very soon.
Where the longnecks don’t get hot in our hands The bar keeps doublin’ down on doubles It ain’t hard to find a little trouble
Neon Grave – Tyler Braden
Released in early 2023, Neon Grave is the latest EP that features the title track along with “Try Losing One”, “Middle Man,” “Wrong Right Now,” and “Choose Me,” Check out more of Tyler Facebook
I first saw Luke Bryan about 10 years ago. I don’t recall much of the night, honestly, but that story isn’t for publication. What I do recall is that Bryan got the crowd jumping, hooting and hollering immediately and never let off the gas. This night was no different in that regard.
From his first notes of “Kick The Dust Up” to his last notes of “Light it Up” Bryan had the entire seated crowd of 6400 and the extras in the lawn up and dancing around. The glow of cell phone screens filled the amphitheater and the subtle smells of vapes, pot, and spilled beer were prevalent as Luke was “Knockin Boots” on stage for close to 2 hours.
Starting around 905, the stage and house lights went dark as the crowd suddenly erupted in massive screams and cheers. We heard a little mash up of Luke Bryan songs as the curtains were pulled back and light filled the stage with light and finally Luke Bryan as he started off his set with a “Kick The Dust Up”
Along with his infamous dance moves and thought-provoking lyrics, Luke Bryan shows also boast quite a picture/light show throughout his performances. Each song is paired perfectly with proper graphics and/or light shows on large screens behind him. “Roller Coaster”, an appropriate theme for this venue, displays large coaster on the backdrop, complete with matching sounds. Other songs like “I Don’t Want This Night to End” show clips from music videos. While “Country On”, Luke’s most recent chart topper, the screen becomes an ode to service people.
With that song coming to an end, Luke called out Shannon from the pit area and brought her up on stage with him has he thanked her husband for his active duty service. Of course, this can’t be done without a surprise, right? Shannon’s husband Jeff came out from back stage and was welcomed by not only Shannon but the rambunctious crowd. Chants of USA were heard throughout the seating area. Very touching moment that brought tear to many eyes.
As Bryan continued playing until nearly 11pm, the fans kept getting louder and more active as they were dancing in all the aisles. As much as the ushers tried, these active fans were not clearing out. Ushers near me eventually gave in and began dancing along to the music.
Having been signed to music labels since 2017, Luke spent time prior to that writing songs for the likes of Travis Tritt and Billy Currington. With this experience, Bryan has nearly 40 musical awards, 10 headliner tours, and has played countless festivals and spring break events. Its no wonder why he has become one of the most famous acts in country music history. Keep up Luke as he continues his current tour and his subsequent ones. Farm Tour 2023 (lukebryan.com)
Setlist: Kick the Dust Up, What Makes You Country, Knockin’ Boots, Roller Coaster, But I Got a Beer in My Hand, Strip it Down, Rain is a Good Thing, Games, Country On, One Margarita, Sunrise/Sunburn/Sunset, Huntin’/Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day, I Don’t Want This Night to End, Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye, Buy Dirt (Jordain Davis), Play it Again, What She Wants Tonight, Down to One, I See You, Light It Up, Country Girl (Shake it For Me), That’s My Kind of Night
On Friday, June 2, renowned rock band Styx graced the stage at Artpark in Lewiston, NY, delivering an unforgettable evening of music and nostalgia. The venue was packed to the brim, with an excited crowd eagerly awaiting the start of the show. Despite a brief ten-minute sprinkle of rain, the weather gods smiled upon us as the downpour held off, setting the stage for an extraordinary concert experience.
Jet Black Roses
The night began with an opening act called Jet Black Roses. They set the tone with their high-energy performance. Their melodic tunes and captivating stage presence effectively warmed up the audience, preparing them for the main event.
As the lights dimmed, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air, and Styx burst onto the stage with a powerful rendition of “To Those”. Immediately capturing the hearts of the crowd. Styx wasted no time in launching into their arsenal of classic hits, delivering a charged and electric performance that showcased their exceptional musicianship and undeniable showmanship.
The setlist for the evening was a carefully curated mix of beloved favorites and hidden gems, each song met with roaring applause and enthusiastic sing-alongs from the captivated audience. Timeless classics like “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)” and “The Grand Illusion” transported fans back to an era filled with memories, while still resonating with a fresh and contemporary edge. It was a testament to Styx’s enduring legacy and their ability to connect with fans of all ages.
Frontman Lawrence Gowan effortlessly commanded the stage throughout the night, his vocals soaring with power and emotion. Whether belting out the iconic chorus of “Come Sail Away” or delivering a soul-stirring rendition of “Lady,” Gowan’s performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. He even took a moment to showcase his own repertoire with a solo performance of “A Criminal Mind,” leaving the audience in awe and showering him with well-deserved praise.
The band’s energy remained unwavering during the two-and-a-half-hour spectacle. Guitarist Tommy Shaw unleashed blistering solos and infectious riffs that ignited the crowd, while the rock-solid rhythm section of bassist Ricky Phillips and drummer Todd Sucherman provided a sturdy foundation for Styx’s dynamic sound. The band’s impeccable harmonies and instrumental prowess were on full display during epic tracks like “Crystal Ball” and “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man).”
As the concert reached its crescendo, a thunderous roar of applause filled the air as Styx delved into their final songs. The encore, comprising the iconic “Mr. Roboto” and the timeless anthem “Renegade,” left the audience exhilarated and yearning for more.
In conclusion, Styx’s concert at Artpark was an extraordinary experience. The band’s timeless music, coupled with their exceptional stage presence, created an electric atmosphere that had the crowd on their feet throughout the entire performance. Despite a packed venue and a brief encounter with rain, the night proceeded flawlessly, leaving concertgoers with indelible memories. Styx once again demonstrated why they are revered as one of the greatest rock bands of all time, and their performance in Lewiston, NY, will undoubtedly be remembered as a pinnacle moment in their illustrious career.
Friday, May 5th was the return of Billy Idol to Niagara Falls at the Fallsview Casino in Ontario, Canada. Before Billy Idol took the stage, Kelsey Karter & The Heroines opened the night with their unique blend of rock and pop. The energy of the crowd was palpable as they eagerly awaited the start of the concert.
Unfortunately, the band faced some challenges as two of their members were denied entry into Canada, resulting in a more mellow set than they had originally planned. Despite this setback, Kelsey Karter & The Heroines still impressed with their impressive vocals and dynamic stage presence.
Kelsey Karter’s voice was a highlight of the performance, soaring effortlessly over the band’s catchy melodies. Their set included original songs such as “Bad News,” “Harry,” and “God Knows I’ve Tried,” showcasing their songwriting skills and musical prowess. Despite the unplanned changes, Kelsey Karter & The Heroines still managed to get the audience excited for the main event. Their performance was a great warm-up for Billy Idol, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of music and celebration.
Overall, the night was a success, with Kelsey Karter & The Heroines paving the way for Billy Idol’s explosive performance. Despite the challenges they faced, they still managed to put on an impressive show and get the audience hyped up for what was to come.
Billy Idol
The setlist was fantastic, featuring a mix of Billy Idol’s classic hits and fan favorites. The show started with “Dancing With Myself,” a Generation X song that got the crowd pumped up right from the start. Other hits like “Cradle of Love,” “Flesh for Fantasy,” and “Eyes Without a Face” had everyone singing along. Steve Stevens’ guitar solo was a real showstopper, with him playing Led Zeppelin’s “Over the Hills and Far Away” and “Stairway to Heaven” to the delight of the audience. “Mony Mony,” a Tommy James & the Shondells cover, got the crowd moving and grooving.
The setlist also included lesser-known tracks like “Running From the Ghost” and “One Hundred Punks,” which showed off the depth and range of Billy Idol’s music. The Blue Highway/Top Gun Anthem medley was a lovely tribute to the late composer Harold Faltermeyer. The encore was phenomenal, with Billy Idol belting out “Hot in the City” and “White Wedding.” The night ended on a high note with the entire audience singing along to “Happy Birthday to You” in honor of Steve Stevens.
Overall, the Billy Idol concert at Fallsview Casino was an unforgettable experience. The setlist was impressive, and the performance was top-notch. Billy Idol and his band proved that they still know how to rock the stage after all these years, and the celebration of Steve Stevens’ birthday made the night all the more special. If you ever get a chance to see Billy Idol live, we highly recommend it! For more information about the tour, and to see Idol live, visit here.
Tesla rocked the Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls with an incredible performance on April 15th. They last played the Niagara Falls area in 2019 and the Buffalo area in 2015. The legendary hard rock band has been a staple in the rock world for over three decades. The crowd eagerly anticipated the show from the moment the band took the stage. Tesla began with “Ladyluck,” a high-energy classic that set the tone for the night.
One of the show’s highlights was the band’s tribute to their former bandmate, Tommy Skeoch. Jeff Keith’s powerful vocals soared over Frank Hannon and Dave Rude’s heartfelt guitar work during the touching rendition of “What You Give.” Fans sang along to the emotional lyrics, paying their respects to the late musician.
Throughout the night, Tesla played hit after hit, including “Modern Day Cowboy,” “Love Song,” and “Love Me”. Fans sang along to every word, their voices blending together in a chorus of appreciation for the band’s incredible music.
But it wasn’t just the music that made the night special. Tesla’s connection with the audience was undeniable, and the crowd responded with cheers and applause. Brian Wheat’s bass and Troy Luccketta’s drums provided a rock-solid foundation for the band’s sound. Frank Hannon and Dave Rude traded blistering solos, their fingers dancing across the fretboards with ease.
As the night came to a close, Tesla launched into a rousing encore, playing “Little Suzi” and “Signs” to the delight of the crowd. Fans sang along, their voices blending together in a powerful show of appreciation for the band’s incredible talent.
In conclusion, Tesla’s performance at Seneca Niagara Casino was a masterclass in classic hard rock. The band’s musicianship was impeccable, their showmanship undeniable, and their connection with the audience was electric. It was a night that will be remembered by all in attendance, a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll.
