BRASS TRANSIT - Rock Log 110412

Tonight Randall and I went to catch Toronto’s native sons known as Brass Transit; the WORLD’S GREATEST Chicago tribute band.  This is the second Chicago tribute band that we have seen the other being Beginnings; the ULTIMATE Chicago tribute band (Rock Log 120411).  The question is, World’s Greatest versus Ultimate, who wins?

 

Brass Transit was an incredibly tight group of musicians that nailed every note perfectly and I mean perfectly.  Their front man was superb, having vocals that were seamlessly woven into every song.  The key to any tribute band is nailing the focal point.  Brass Transit did that as their horns were out of the world.  Twice during the show the three piece horn section roamed throughout the crowd, climbed on tables and counters, and danced with the fans.  In sum, they were magnificent.  

 

Now the bad part.  Brass Transit enjoys playing the love songs of Chicago; too many in fact.  Chicago has some driving rock-jazz fusion songs.  I do not need to hear Hard Habit to Break ever again.  Randall and I caught a break in that the Steelers-Giants were on the television next to us, so when the deluge of musica de amor came we masculinely diverted our eyes to the gridiron.  Also, the band had a drum solo after only three songs.  Again, nobody likes a drum solo from anyone whose last name is not Peart, Lee or Scheckel.  

 

Where does this leave us?  Brass Transit is clearly the world’s greatest Chicago tribute band.  I would say that Beginnings had a better set list.  But if I could only go to one, it would be Brass Transit with that engaging horn section.  Well done hosers.

 

Vick

 

PS: Not even one remotely attractive woman was at the show, but there was Squatch.

DRAW THE LINE - Rock Log 101812

Paulie, Homework and I took in the greatest tribute band of them all, Draw The Line.  Amazing and a must see for any music lover.  Outstanding!  For full details see Rock Log 041212.

Off the stage, Larry David was spasmodic dancing all night and Ron Jeremy danced for one solid hour without moving his feet.  Priceless.

Vick

LENNON LIVE - Rock Log 100712

Homework, NK, Randall and I went this year.  Great show, killer version of Cold Turkey.  Well done, but fully summed up in prior Rock Log 100911.

Vick

LOU GRAMM - Rock Log 090812

WARNING!  This Review is Rated PG-17

Lou Gramm makes the trip to Uncasville every year.  We make the trip to see him every year.  It is the same show every year; same set, same mediocre band, same lifeless crowd...but that was yesterday.

Randall, Homework, Paulie and I caught former Foreigner front man Lou Gramm, who has made it pretty clear that he needs the cash and that is why he continues to tour upwards of thirty shows annually.  He has historically been a relentless hawker of his merch.  But tonight was pleasing different.  Lou was not about the money tonight.  Lou wasn't about taking no shit tonight.  He all but said "I am the captain of the Good Ship Kick Ass and if you don't want to rock, then get the fuck off my boat".  I'm paraphrasing.

The night began with a strong rendition of Double Vision as does every Lou show.  But the similarity to past shows ended shortly.  Lou entered about thirty seconds into the musical interlude and he was pissed off.  Somebody got under his skin and his only method of coping was the blow the roof off the Den.  He practically stated "Grab your lance and board my mighty rock and roll steed because tonight I am going to rape and pillage Ye Olde Wolf Den, no pussies shall there be".  I am paraphrasing. 

It was an unprecedented eighty minute show of non-stop classics, only one song I did not know. You cannot conceive of how many hits this guy has until you see him live.  The musical highlight was I Want to Know What Love Is, which included a full eight member youth ensemble joining in the vocals.  My favorite was the poppy Just Between You and Me, which captured Lou's full range.  Lou was full of energy, only taking one eight minute break while his drummer brother Ben had his solo.  Nobody likes a drum solo, nobody.  But nothing could ruin Sir Lou's night.  High notes, low notes, screams, he was dead on.  I noticed only one crack in the voice, but I feel guilty even mentioning it.  He was that good.  Noticeably absent was Live Without Your Love, but I ain't complainin'. 

Also noticeably absent tonight was Lou's endless pandering of his merch, which we frankly love.  But again, tonight Lou was not about the money.  Lou almost came out and said "merch don't mean shit, I'm all about melting your fucking skulls tonight".  Again, not factually accurate, but I perceived that to be his non-verbal intent.

This is the first Lou show for Paulie at the Den, second for me and Homework and fourth for Randall.  Neither of us thought we needed to go, but we were damn glad we did.  Well done Lou, it felt like the first time.

Vick

PS: sorry for the foul language, but the blame goes to Lou Gramm

SKID ROW - Rock Log 082312

After a decade of Wolf Den shows, last night I determined that it is exactly 35.0 miles from my driveway to Level 4 Riverview Garage at the Mohegan Sun.  Skid Row was on my agenda for Thursday evening.  I was determined not to miss them since I have not seen them before despite their several previous visits to the Den.  However, I traveled those 70 roundtrip miles solo last night as this show was a bit much from my increasingly aged Den Men crew.

Fortunately, Skid Row did not disappoint me.  Arriving five minutes before show time, I was relegated to front row of the ‘old entrance’ since the bar was full.  Much like the Firehouse show from last week, the staged was surrounded with countless long haired, diehard fans including what appeared to be a tattoo/Harley Davidson convention on the Wolf Den floor.  I felt a bit out of place in my Nike golf shirt – yet when the music started we became one big Rock & Roll Family.

Skid Row starts every show with a pre-recorded version of the National Anthem and then jams out for 3 songs in a row before addressing the crowd.  Johnny Solinger, who has been the voice of the band since the departure of Sebastian Bach in 1999, was a true warrior.  He was wearing a sling for his left arm and had some major road rash.  As he tells it, he dumped his motorcycle in Texas last week and fractured some ribs and got all cut up – yet he was determined to make it to the Uncasville for the show.  You don’t get that dedication from every rock star.

Three original members from 1986 are still with the band including guitarists, Dave “The Snake, Sabo & Scotti Hill and bassist Rachel Bolan.  Rob Hammersmith on drums is the rookie, joining the band in 2010.  Each had a perfectly short-durationed solo and looked as if they were enjoying every minute of their performance.

The crowd really got going with ‘Monkey Business” and the ballad “I Remember You”.  But the last three songs of the evening:“Slave to the Grind” “18 and Life” and “Youth Gone Wild” drew some of the best audience participation I have seen in my 100+ Den shows.  Very fun, high energy, in your face Rock & Roll.

Absolutely loved it.

Randall

2U - Rock Log 082212

Billed as the second best U2 show in the world, 2U brought their talents to Uncasville for the second time in eighteen months.  Randall, Homework and I were their to witness Fake Bono, Fake Edge and the fake two other guys.  We saw the show on St. Patrick's Day 2011 as well.  Both shows were sparsely attending, catching us off guard once, but not twice.

Tonight the show started poorly as the boys from Fake Dublin were on stage for seemingly an eternity before starting as there was some type of equipment glitch, but once the show started, it took off like a...Fake U2 show.

Let's face it, the music makes the show, play it well and all is good.  It took awhile for the band to get going.  Beginning with "I Will Follow", Fake Bono launched into several high-leg kicks that were more reminiscent of Ralph Macchio than Bono, which set the giggles in motion.  Song three, "Beautiful Day", got the crowd going.  One dude in particular, Little Viz, air-drummed his way through the whole night.  

However, I never really bought into this show.  It was just a band covering U2.  Music was okay, but the actions and banter were pedestrian.  Some quality performances, but just missing key elements.  Strong numbers included "Bad", "In God's Country", "Vertigo" and "Mysterious Ways", during which a drunk bar fly passed out, grabbing me on the way down only to find my saving catch absent.   Falling to the ground, hitting her head on a stool, while maintaining her drink and lit Virginia Slim was spectacular.  She did in fact move in a mysterious way.

Other than that, its just an okay show.  If you like U2, why not.  If you do not then, stay home.  I should note that this same band also travels as Almost Journey, with Fake Steve and Fake Neil.  After two 2U shows, I still haven't found what I'm looking for.

Vick

GIN BLOSSOMS - Rock Log 081812

The Gin Blossoms invaded The Den tonight with their high-spirited pop-rock bonanza.  Joining me for the show were Randall, NK, Lady Vick and Tofu Steve.  This is the second GB show for me and Randall.  We anticipated a strong crowd, so I arrived at 6:45, getting the last remaining spot on the glass.  Settled and ready the show began at 8:00.

Every once in a while you run across a band that you know, but forgot exactly how many hit songs they had.  The Gin Blossoms are definitely that.  The set was fully of energetic songs all performed well.  Songs we all knew were "Until I Fall Away", "Found Out About You", "Allison Road", "Til I Hear It from You", and the ballad that kept the kept the crowd swaying "As Long as It Matters".  I personally thought the two best songs of the night were “Pieces of the Night” and “Wave Bye Bye”.

The band was good.  I did notice that guitarist Jesse Valenzuela missed a few missed chords during certain songs, but largely this is a polished group.  However the key the Gin Blossoms live is Robin Wilson.  According to Randall, and it is an apt description, “he is a little monkey”.  Basically, with most shows if you want a piece of the lead singer, you need to rush the stage.  At a GB show, there is no avoiding Wilson, he’ll come to you.  He sang from on the stage, on top of tables, on chairs, walking through the crowd, on the faux-rocks and even bar-top, which is where Randall, NK and I gave the man some skin.  Not that kind of skin, though the Jersey Housewife to my left certainly was willing to give Wilson what Wilson wanted (alliteration – four consecutive words with the same beginning letter, well crafted, I know).  I was truly entertained watching him and feel he is the best front man I have seen at The Den.

I was a bit surprised at 9:05 when there was a brief discussion on stage between the band mates after which Wilson announced “I just called and audible”, right before playing “A Million Miles” and then exiting.  Sure they returned for a great finale of “Follow You Down”, but the show still ended at 9:18, twelve minutes shy of the expected.  What was the audible and why the short show?  Thought about asking for my money back, but……

This is one of my favorite annual shows in Uncasville.  I will not miss them upon their return and neither should you.  Great music, high-energy lead guy, and plenty of forty-something women headed for Lukewarm City as Hot Town is clearly in their rearview mirror.

Vick

FIREHOUSE - Rock Log 081412

Some things in life aren’t meant to be together:  Pepper on an Oreo - Nope; Ketchup on a Hot Fudge Sundae- Yuck! - or Weight Watchers Meetings at Victoria’s Secret – No Way!!  Other things in life blend just fine:  Peanut Butter & Jelly – Of course; thongs at Miami Beach- For Sure!! or Randall at an 80’s Hair Band Show – No Doubt.  Last night’s life blend happily brought me together with 80’s Hair Band FireHouse at the Den and these rock veterans hit a home run.

I have never seen a more fitting crowd at any Wolf Den show than the one last night.  Typically we see lots of folks out of place ( ie old people at a hard rock show, Chinese people at Asia, myself at Chad & Jeremy or Vick at a Lita Ford show).  Yesterday’s Rock Show had just what you’d expect – 30-40 year old MTV rockers.  There was a plethora of amazingly good looking, properly attired (or un-attired) folks in the crowd – I can only imagine what this crowd would have looked like 20 years ago...To give you a visual of the show from my vantage point, I’ll offer:

That’s right, there were lots of moving parts last night; both in the crowd and on stage.  Now that everyone’s tents have effectively been pitched, on to the show...

FireHouse erupted onto the rock scene back in 1989-1991 and actually won best New Hard Rock band over the likes of Nirvana or Alice in Chains.  These days three of the original four members (CJ Snare, vocals, Bill Leverty, guitar & Michael Foster, drums) still actively tour along with Allen McKenzie on bass and have religiously made Uncasville a yearly stop.

While probably mislabeled as a power ballad band due to the success of ‘When I Look Into Your Eyes’ and ‘Love of a Lifetime’ –these boys actually have a high energy guitar & drum driven sound.  This coupled with the unique and amazing voice of CJ allows them to stand the test of time and continue to rock today.  They refreshingly mixed up the set list this year but the hits ‘Reach for the Sky’ and ‘Don’t Treat Me Bad’ brought the house down.

Plenty of merch and a meet and greet ended the night along with a promise to be back next year.  You can be sure I will be there.

-Randall

THE ZOMBIES - Rock Log 080712

Well, I did it again.  Tonight I drove by myself to see 60s rock legends Colin Blunstone and Rod Argent, better known as The Zombies.  This is the third time I have Zombied at The Den, the first was quite good but the second was abysmal, primarily because of the opening act, The Strawbs.  Don’t get me freakin’ started on The Strawbs.  Let’s just say the second Zombies show was the first and only show that we as a group could not get through and left early.

Anyway, the third time was better, not as good as the first, but a decent show.  Some new tunes mixed in but generally speaking the same set list.  Also, more of the same hyper-creepy looking Blunstone and the self-centered Argent, who took spent a collective fifteen minutes of the show talking about how much Dave Grohl and Paul Weller both loved The Zombies 1967 album Odyssey and Oracle.  It grows old after awhile.  Just play, please.

The music is solid, again led by “Time of the Season”, “Tell Her No”, “She’s Not There” and “Hold Your Head Up”, the latter from Argent’s solo band aptly named Argent.  Frankly, I never liked the whole let’s name the band after our last name thing.  Too pretentious.  I am thankful it is Argent that named his new band after himself and not Blunstone.  Can you imagine going to see Blunstone? 

• Loser A - “Hey, who’s warming up for Michael Bolton at the Coliseum? 
• Loser B - “I think it may be Blunstone” 
• Loser A - “Cool, I love Blunstone!”

Now that I am going, what the hell is a Blunstone?  Sounds like a chunk of crystallized calcium that one may be forced to extract through their urethra.  Blunstone, really?

In summary, not much to report, same old Zombie stuff.  Always good to hear “Time of the Season” as it a 60s anthem.  It was also nice that they mixed in a new song, “Old and Wise”, which is from Blunstone’s days with the Alan Parsons Project.  No need for a Z4, but I would not rule it out.  This is good news because on the trip down to Uncasville I had a felling they would be entering the Hall of Shame tonight.

Vick

SATISFACTION - Rock Log 080612

A must see show. Mick Jagger, Ron Wood and Keith Richards were terrific look-a-like/sound-a-like guys. Piles of hits done to precision. While never a huge Stones fan, I appreciate all that they are to Rock & Roll history and would not miss this show again.

Randall

PYROMANIA - Rock Log 073112

It’s gotta be hard to be from Chicago and try to sound like the British accented Joe Elliot. That’s what Paulie and I had to listen to and try to figure out as Pyromania hit the stage. While musically flawless, vocally some songs were very good – others, not so much. While I’ve loved Def Leppard music for years and thoroughly enjoyed the show, this, comparatively speaking, was not the best tribute band we’ve seen at the Den.

Randall

POCO - Rock Log 072412

Homework and I are worlds apart in musical taste.  He is “head-banging, guitar-shredding maniac guy” and I am “sip lemonade, rock on the porch, listen to elevator music guy”.  He is the teenager and I am grandpa.  But tonight we both hopped in the V-hicle and went to see country rock pioneer, Poco.  Poco was established in 1968, we know this because both bought the same t-shirt after the show that reads “Poco established 1968”.  Why did we buy Poco concert t-shirts?  Because this was a supremely outstanding show, that’s why.  Who would have thought that Poco was our common ground? 

From the beginning they came out rocking with “All Fired Up”, a song that was good but not special.  However, it did provide a glimpse of what great musicians were in the band, led by sole remaining founder Rusty Young.  The other members were all top notch musicians, both in terms of quality and quantity.  On set there was one drum set, one piano, one organ, one accordion, three electric guitars, two acoustic guitars, one steel guitar, one lap steel guitar, a dobro, mandolin and a couple of shaker things.  All played expertly by gifted musicians.

The night only took off after song three, “Call It Love”, which highlighted Young’s vocals, which were both strong and uniquely innocent, kind of like the big dude from The Blind Side.  From that point on, then night was sheer magic with notables such as “Crazy Love”, “Kind Woman” and a fantastic Cajun version of “In the Heart of the Night”.  Also, Young told a story of early Poco’s roots and his meeting with Neil Young just prior to playing a great song aptly titled “Neil Young is not My Brother”.  The stories were great, the music was superb, the banter was fresh and genuine and the show is now in my top three ever seen in Uncasville.

Finally, and most importantly, if I were to rate the five best songs I have ever heard at The Den, two of them were at this show.  “Hard Country” was simply out of this world with a Don Henley meets Mark Knopfler quality to it.  At eight minutes long it was not long enough.  This was still outshone by “Rose of Cimarron”, which was almost ethereal in its intertwining vocals and musical interlude which led Young from electric to steel guitar.

So, a show that we were ho-hum about turned out to rock our collective worlds.  We met the Poco boys after the show and were impressed in their humility and real appreciation of their fans.  Poco has just claim itself as my Number One Must See Band at The Den.  Outstanding!    

Vick

Established 1964

BURTON CUMMINGS - Rock Log 072012

Randall once said, when a Rock n' Roll legend comes to The Den then it's our obligation to make sure we are there.  Well, such is the case for Burton Cummings, known to all as the frontman of the legendary Guess Who.  I was very much looking forward to the show, Randall was game but did not share my level of enthusiasm.  By the end, we were both pleased.

The show opened strong with "No Sugar Tonight/New Mother Nature", which sounded fantastic.  Cummings clearly has some miles on the pipes, but he brought it big tonight, covering all of the hits of the Guess Who and a few solo songs.  I must admit that of the fifteen song list, two fell flat, those being "Star Baby" and Guns, Guns, Guns", the latter he introduced by saying what a shame about the recent shootings in Colorado (poor timing).

Otherwise, thirteen songs were solid, none more so for me than "Undone", "Laughing" and "No Time".  Highlights for me was the UH in "American Woman" and "These Eyes", which I found to be completely captivating.  Randall really got jacked, meaning he moved greater than 3/4 of an inch, when BC played "Share the Land", which was perfectly done.

My sole complaint of Burton Cummings would be to stop criticizing the current line-up of the Guess Who.  We all know that you are The Voice of the band, we do not need your sourness, let them be.  Just play baby...and sweat, my goodness does this man sweat.

Overall, a very good show by one of rock's true legendary voices.

Vick

LITTLE RIVER BAND - Rock Log 071512

Tonight Homework and I ended the weekend with a trip to Uncasville to see the greatest Australian import this country has ever seen, the Little River Band.  The house was as jam-packed as you will ever find on a Sunday, with a heapin’ helpin’ of hot middle agers and a side order of Viz.

To say it was really LRB is a misnomer because there is not one original member in the band.  Wayne Nelson, bass and vocals, joined the band in 1980 in the middle of their glorious six year run atop the US charts.  The other four joined the group in 2000, 2004, 2006 and 2012.  So while it was legally the Little River Band, it was not THE Little River Band.  Thus, I really did not want to like this group because of the absence of Messrs. Shorrock, Birtles and Gobel, who founded the band and were the key to their success.  However, I found myself enjoying the show…a lot.

The show began with “It’s a Long Way There” and ripped through hit after hit for the next eighty minutes.  The band members were strong, none than Rich Herring on lead guitar.  His flawless delivery and solos drove the band.  Keys, drums and rhythm guitar were okay.  Nelson was a good front man in terms of banter.  He was engaging, affable and generally appreciative of everyone being there, offering autographs to all after the show over by the merch table, and boy did they have merch.  His vocals were good, by no means Glenn Shorrock good, but good.  Tonight the highlight of LRB was, and has been from the beginning, their harmonies.  When all members harmonized there was electricity in the air.   

The set-list was a seemingly endless collection of yesteryear chart-toppers.  Songs that I thought were exceptional were “Take it Easy on Me”, “Reminiscing” and “Man on Your Mind”.  The crowd seemed most into “Happy Anniversary”, during which Nelson implored the crowd on the floor to get up and sing, most of whom did not as their advanced age prohibited them from doing so.  I should mention that in April I e-mailed Nelson and asked that they play “Home on Monday”, which is in my all-time top five favorite songs.  He acknowledged receipt of my correspondence and then proceeded to lay down a nice version of this LRB deep cut.  Much thanks for that.  They closed the show with “Lonesome Loser”, which unfortunately they dragged on too long, but nonetheless was done very well. 

Overall, good show, great songs, gifted musicians, killer merch, but it did have a “tribute band” feel to it for me.  My recommendation is, go see LRB for the music and not the personnel and you will truly enjoy yourself.

Vick

WARRANT - Rock Log 070812

While Jani Lane was the face of Warrant as well as the key song writer and reason for much of Warrant’s success – his falling out with the band and subsequent legal battles left Warrant in disarray for years with various line-ups. Enter Robert Mason (formerly of Lynch Mob) in 2008 on vocals and the reformation of four original members (Erik Turner, Jerry Dixon, Steve Sweet & Joey Allen) and all is well for Warrant. Mason’s voice and stage presence actually seem better than recently deceased Lane back in his heyday.

Good crowd, lots of audience participation and 90 minutes of in-your-face electric guitar driven music and rock anthems. Great show.

Randall

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE - Rock log 061512

Recently the Den has booked several different bands which pay tribute to the same legendary Rock N Roll groups.  We’ve seen the Beatles done as Classics Album Live and as the Fab Four.  We’ve also seen Great Escape do their version of Journey then watched Voyage (w/ Hugo) do their rendition of the same.   Friday night brought another of such events.

Back in March, Zoso: The Led Zeppelin Experience (Rock Log 032512) demonstrated a ‘looks like/sounds like’ set of Led Zeppelin’s best and did a very good job.   Classics Album Live performed Led Zeppelin II and took it to a new level on Friday – at least on the audible front (as a Classics Album Live show will never be mistaken for a look-a-like band.)

What amazes me most about the Classics Album Live shows I’ve seen is the amount of musicians it takes to re-create the sound of the originals.  The Who and The Beatles have four band members and in each case it took eight musicians to replicate their sounds.   In the Led Zep case – it was another seven to match the original four.  

Tonight was all about the lead singer.  While you would expect the Jimmy Page guitarist to be the show stopper in a Led Zeppelin show – and he was very talented, the guy doing Robert Plant was absolutely amazing.  I’m just an average Led Zep fan – but smart enough to know that this guy had it going on....long notes, high notes, low notes, grunts, harmonica, timing, screams...everything on cue and to perfection. 

After forty five minutes of straight forward Led Zeppelin II, highlighted by a strong opening tune of “A Whole Lot of Love” – the band played another forty five minutes of other Zep favorites.  A first for all of us was the song where the drummer played with four sticks (a la Jon Bonham)...I found it really unique and fun to watch, but unfortunately couldn’t actually hear the difference the extra two stick made.

Fearing “Stairway to Heaven” would end the show, we were all pleasantly surprised that this song was nixed from the setlist and they ended in grand fashion with “Kashmir”.  Definitely one of the Top 10 songs I’ve heard play live at the Den since I started oh so many years ago.

This night provided no oddball people, no drop dead gorgeous gals, no extravagant sets – nothing to remember it by except the music.  I guess that’s the way it should be....

Randall

AMERICA - Rock Log 060912

Last year at about this time, America came to town to play at the Wolf Den.  Seven of us cleared our schedules to have dinner and watch a show.  Unfortunately circumstances changed that evening and we never got to see these vintage musicians.  This year, America’s return to Uncasville drew only two of those original seven.   For myself, seeing this band for the first time was simply another notch in my Rock n’ Roll show belt, but for NK, it seemed a real treat.

Time is a funny thing – depending on context, forty-two years can be seen as very short duration or a very long duration.  If you are a 42 yr old grandparent, one would think that is amazingly young.  Yet if you started a Rock N Roll band 42 years ago and continue to perform to this day, one would consider you a relic.  America falls into the latter. 

Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell formed two-thirds of the original group and rose to stardom in the 70’s with an array of easy-listening Top 10 hits.   They were joined on stage by Willie Leacox on drums -a 39 yr veteran of the group, Mike Woods, lead guitar, 34 years, and the rookie on bass Richard Campbell, 11 years.  Together these guys showed their true musicianship and played a very good set to a packed, yet strangely motionless older crowd. 

Being much older Den Men than yours truly, this group is far more up NK’s & Vick’s alley based on the kind of music and timeframe of their popularity.  Still, I knew several songs and some that I didn’t know were very good (“Sandman” comes to mind as an unbeat- rockin’ tune).   They played the hits: “Lonely People”, “Sister Golden Hair”, “You Can Do Magic”, and of course “Ventura Highway” and even ventured into some covers including the Mama’s & Papa’s “California Dreamin”.  One highlight of the show was the very effective use of the video monitor behind the stage.  They showed vintage America concerts as well as news clips of the world from back in the 70’s and earlier including war scenes.  Overall I enjoyed the show as the concert had a Crosby, Still and Nash feel to it -softer music with good harmonies.  It’s no wonder they have their star of the Walk of Fame.

One last highlight occurred as NK and I were downing some Trash Ribs at Bubba’s and enjoying the Celts game.  We both watched in awe as Den favorites, Greg and Squatch, mosied up to a table to feast on a full rack and half a chicken.  Surprised – I think not.

Randall 

VOYAGE w/ HUGO (Journey Tribute) - Rock Log 053112

While technically not yet summer, it sure felt like summer time last night at the Wolfs Den as Voyage (featuring Hugo) a Journey Tribute Band, took the stage.  A smorgasbord for the eyes to feast on while listening to all the classic songs of one of American premier melodic rock bands.

I’m not saying that the eye-feast was all good; in fact, quite to the contrary, there was more train-wreck watching than ogling.  Case in point is the 50-something year old guy in a Cabo T-shirt wearing light-up sneakers while dancing spastically on the dance floor.  That’s right a 50 yr old guy with light-up sneakers.  Where else but at our beloved home-away-from-home.     I also couldn’t take my eyes off the Man-Squatch playing keyboards up on stage.  His pumpkin-sized head and frizzed out hair were a bit mesmerizing.  Luckily the crowd was also sprinkled with several “globe shows” which balanced out the eye sores.

On to the show...45 days ago we saw “Draw the Line – an Aerosmith Tribute Band” (RockLog 041612) and were amazed with the likeness of Neill Byrnes to Steven Tyler.  We knew going in last night that Hugo was going to challenge Byrnes for best lead-singer likeness as he was a dead-ringer for Steve Perry.   After watching both shows, however, I’ll give the nod to Byrnes.  Hugo was good, mind you – hair, voice, stage presence – but Byrnes was better.

Voyage started slow then hit their stride mid-show and ended with a flurry.  Opening songs should fire up a crowd and set the pace for what’s to come.  When you start a Rock N Roll show with “Ask the Lonely” you don’t accomplish these tasks.  Also , as Chazbo, Vick, Paulie & myself watched the show woman-less, the G-factor was high as one would expect with a ballad-laden setlist.  Hard to be enthused with “Open Arms”, “Faithfully” and “Send Her My Love” with only the Den Men sausages nearby.  “Be Good To Yourself”, “Don’t Stop Believin”, “Anyway You Want It” and “Wheel in the Sky” were done very well and had the dance floor full.  The Neil Schon guitarist was very good as was the chicken-headed drummer. 

Yes summertime is fast approaching my friends.....looking forward to many more Voyages!!

Randall

BACK IN BLACK (AC/DC Tribute) - Rock Log 051312

For Those About to Rock……..

Yup, tonight was Mother’s Day gift for us all as Back in Black - the AC/DC tribute band invaded The Den.  What was expected to be the largest attended crowd in our rock and roll show history turned out to be a pedestrian showing as Randall, Homework, Chazzy, Lady Vick and I were there from the start and Paulie joined us at the midway point, following his day at Fenway.  The crowd was larger than most Sunday nights and did not suffer because the Beach Boys were in the arena.  But then again your average Beach Boy ain’t getting on the Highway to Hell anyway.

Back in Black, hailing from Springfield, MA, has been doing this for twenty-two years.  Let me tell you, they have perfected their craft.  Our first viewing of this band (Rock Log 080811) was superb and this show was not too far behind.  Beginning with Rock and Roll Train, the ninety four minute show powered through the entire career of AC/DC, with a fair amount of deep cuts.  Surprisingly they played Back in Black and Shook Me All Night Long within the first twenty minutes of the show.  These are your typical end of the show standards, but it did get us rockin’ early. 

However, nobody told the crowd that it was time to rock as they were largely mute and unmoved, which I found odd and prompted the lead singer (Tony) to shout, “What is there a gas leak in here?”  The stage side was adorned by two dirty hots, which spent the entire show pelvic-pumping in short-shorts and seemed all too comfortable dancing to “What Do You Do For Money Honey”.  Not my brand of lady, but visually worth the spin. 

Admittedly, many of the songs played tonight were new to me, but the standards were great.  Hell’s Bells was dedicated to Bon Scott and absolutely blew the roof off The Den.  All other songs were as if you were listening to the album.  When viewing a tribute show, I always squint and try to imagine that I am watching the real band.  This band gives me that feeling, with the only caveat being that Brian Johnson hit Old Country Buffet every meal since Let There Be Rock was released.  The lead guitarist (Spencer) is fantastic, steals the show and is quite Angus-worthy.  Vocals are great and spot-on, the rhythm section is flawless.  They closed in dynamite fashion, with “Long Way to the Top” and “For Those About to Rock”.  For the record, bagpipe solos should be limited to ninety seconds.

Overall, great show, yet again.  If you like AC/DC then you must see this band.

….FIRE!

Vick

LYNCH MOB - Rock Log 051012

When you see as many shows as the Den Men do, you are bound to see some truly amazing Rock N Roll Shows.  Yet you are also bound to see some of the most God-awful musical performances you can imagine.    Last night’s trip to Mohegan Sun landed me right smack in the middle.  Lynch Mob took to the wolf-cave stage yesterday and played before a decent Thursday night crowd – only to have me leave feeling emotionless as the show ended. 

I’m not saying it was a bad show, nor am I saying it was a great show....it was just a show.

Watching band founder and guitar virtuoso George Lynch play was well worth the price of admission (free).  Former Ratt bassist Robbie Crane did a decent job as did the keg-bellied Scot “The Cat” Coogan on drums.  I was less impressed with lead singer Oni Logan – not for his singing per se, but he was one of the worst front man I have seen to date.  No flair, no fire – simply a non-entity as a supposed band leader.  But when this band was created and centered around its lead guitarist – do you really need a great front man?  I guess not.

George Lynch, of Dokken fame, was the reason we came.  (that, and we owed Vick some payback for the eggs he has laid on us over the years).  Back in the day, George auditioned for Ozzy Osbourne’s lead guitarist – coming in second to Randy Rhodes.    Now, at 58 yrs old, George has established himself as a true guitar hero...numerous hits, solid riffs, amazingly quick fingers and good sound.  (Plus, his side of the stage was littered with “Randall” amplifiers).  He was fun to watch.

The set list was comprised mostly of Lynch Mob songs with two Dokken tunes added in.  I was most looking forward to “Wicked Sensation”, yet I thought they ruined that song with a long-drawn out banter in the middle by Oni.  “She’s Evil But She’s Mine” led off the show nicely and “River of Love” was also done well.  The crowd was dominated with 90% males and when Dokken hit “Into the Fire” was played early in the set, I think we all thought we’d get a nice blend of those 80’s Dokken songs mixed in – unfortunately  we didn’t get any more until “Tooth and Nail” ended the show.  

Overall, aside for the impressive guitar work of Mr. Scary, the show was as plain as the two dozen Krispy originals I left with.

Randall

BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS - Rock Log 050512

Tonight, Lady Vick and I went to the Sun, she to shop and gamble and me to take in Big Head Todd & The Monsters.  Arriving half-way through the first song, I nestled comfortably at Blossom Rock, staying there for the next eighty-six minutes. It was a large crowd, even by Saturday standards, and they came to rock.  The night was rife with no less than ten standing ovations, and many, Many, MANY dancing ladies strewn throughout.  This show was a good one, actually a VERY good one.

I knew three Monsters' songs before this show, one of which (Bittersweet) is a top ten favorite.  Basically, I did not know what to expect.  Led by Todd Park Mohr, this band did not disappoint.  In fact, through the first forty-five minutes, this had the potential to be my favorite show ever at The Den.  The middle thirty minutes missed the mark in my opinion, but they finished strong closing with an encore of Sexy and I Know It, done a la blues.

Mohr is a strong axe man and has a gifted voice.  He led this group, all of whom was ridiculously talented, none more than Jeremy Lawton who bounced between keys and pedal steel guitar.  Drummer Brian Nevin was all energy and quite good.  Bassist Rob Squires was non-descript, like a bassist should be.  Overall, great sound, great songs, vocals were top-notch and the rhythm section is still pounding in my head.

Neither of The Monsters gets overly excited during their shows, but Mohr is subject to outburst, making the show a visible spectacle as well.  Lawton, was an all out pro, going from steel to keys mid-song without missing a beat.  Songs done well were Circle, Don't Tell Her That I Love Her and Broken Hearted Savior.  Songs done ridiculously well were Bittersweet and Secret Mission.  And as for the song Resignation Superman, let's just say could be the best song I have ever seen performed at The Den, excluding Distant Shores (Rock Log 052211).

Here's the deal, I would never be so brazen as to say go to see this band because Todd Park Mohr is a seven-foot Korean dude.  This alone should make anyone want to see this band.  But let me tell you, they blew the roof off The Den tonight.  A return visit to The Den is an absolute must see.  Randall did not go tonight and he would go to any show, so you know the family need was pressing.  However, if ever faced with that dilemma again, my advice to him would be go Korean my Bro.  

Big Head Todd, simply awesome.

Vick

JONATHAN EDWARDS - Rock Log 042212

Well, I saw my second drum-less show at the Den on Sunday night – this time with NK along.  Coincidently this show proved to also be the second bare-footed performer I have now seen there.  Yes, Jonathan Edwards, (not the politician), played before a convalescent crowd on a rainy, sports-less evening which we had nothing better to do.

On the plus side, this was my favorite drum-less show (Chad & Jeremy).  On the negative side, this was least favorite bare-footed show (Marrakesh Express, a Crosby, Stills & Nash Tribute Band).

On the plus side, we saw Greg and spaghetti-strapped Squatch cuddled up in the first circular booth stage left.  On the negative side, we saw Real Estate Joe and his bride bail after thirty minutes.

On the plus side, Jonathan Edwards – who, by the way, I had no idea who he was or what he sang – is a talented singer, harmonica player and guitarist.  At 65, this guy knows his role in the music industry...play some old tunes for some old folks to reminisce about.   On the negative side, I am not one of those old folks.

On the plus side, I witnessed a campground/fair type show that featured unique instruments which we don’t see every day at the Den – bass violin, mandolin, harmonica to go along with the piano and guitar.  On the negative side, I need my electric guitars and drums.

On the plus side, the show had a James Taylor type vibe to it – easy listening.  On the negative side, it also had a Hee Haw feel to it (without the babes).

On the plus side, I didn’t know his songs so I can’t comment in good conscience.  On the negative side, I didn’t know his songs so I can’t comment in good conscience.

Lastly, on the plus side, NK and I spent $0 as we found out water bottles are complimentary.  On the negative side, we blew our very first absolutely “free” evening by snagging a BOGO on the way out…. $7.99.

Randall

DRAW THE LINE - Rock Log 041612

ROCK 'N ROLL NEWSFLASH....ROCK 'N ROLL NEWSFLASH....ROCK 'N ROLL NEWSFLASH

Aging Boston based rock band Aerosmith legally changes to their name to “Aerosmith, a Draw the Line Tribute Band”.

Well, that may be pushing it just a bit, but fuckin’ A, what an incredible Monday night at the Den with fellow men Vick, Homework & NK.  We just witnessed possibly the best tribute band for any group in any genre and the closest thing you will ever see to a real Aerosmith show.  To my knowledge, Draw the Line is the first fully ‘endorsed’ tribute band of any performers we have seen.  This is a tribute that defines the very word.

You will have a hard time convincing me that Steven Tyler does not a have a long lost son in lead singer Neill Byrnes.  This guy looks, sounds, acts and even plays harmonica just like Steven Tyler.  Years ago Byrnes won a Steven Tyler look-a-like contest and got to meet the rock legend.  Tyler was so impressed with Byrnes’ talents that he introduced him to his personal singing coach and so began the ride to stardom for Draw the Line.

Touring the world with Aerosmith’s blessing for the last 19 years these guys have perfected the many sounds of Aerosmith including works from all decades.  While Byrnes was the only visual doppelganger to the real band members, the rest of the band was exceptional in mastering the music.  Didn’t matter the era, they nailed it.  We were particularly impressed with the talents of the 80 lb axe man, who stood stage left wearing a pair of leather pants that were easily 6 sizes too big.  Nonetheless, this boy was smoking in Joe Perry’s lead guitar role.

The setlist included works from old Aerosmith and not so old Aerosmith.   “Sweet Emotion” was done with impeccable precision and “Dream On” was an expected crowd favorite.  Trouble with being an Aerosmith tribute band at Mohegan Sun is the 90 minute time limit.  The vastness of Aerosmith’s collection makes it impossible to play everyone’s favorite.  Notable omissions were “Big 10 Inch”, “Janie’s Got a Gun” and “Back in the Saddle”.  However, they played most of the others hits.  The show ended with us jumping aboard an awesome version of “Train Kept a Rollin”.

Yes the boys and I went on a Rock N Roll Ride last night....and man was it fun.

Randall

KIX - Rock Log 041412

Ahhhhh, the 80s.  The Rock N Roll genre where hair was as big as trademark dual guitars, and power ballads & arena rock anthems ruled the airwaves with their catchy hooks and unique sounds.

Some of the bands from the 80s have disbanded, some have had deaths or vicious feuds never to be seen or heard together again – while still others have been re-created in a new form.  However, there are a select group that realizes that while their heyday is behind them, they can still reap the rewards of touring smaller venues and rockin out to the tunes that made them Rock N Roll icons.

Saturday night at the Den brought one of these groups to town for the pleasure of Homework and myself.  Baltimore-based Kix put on what can only be described as a true high-energy 80s Rock N Roll show.  From a guy who has seen 85+ shows at the Den in the last 5 years, when I say high energy, I mean high energy.  These boys missed out on some big money as they could have been as spokesmen for Monster, Red Bull & Mountain Dew.  True to the eighties, the crowd was loaded with huge mullets and big guns a-blazin with ample cleave strewn about.

Kix’s high octane show is fronted by lead singer Steve Whiteman.   He is both the reason the show was entertaining and the reason the show had some “problem areas”.  On the plus side, this blond stickman was a true showman – excellent and unique singing voice, engaging with the crowd and a very active stage presence.  He was incredibly good with his range on “Don’t Close Your Eyes” and then getting audience participation on my favorite “Cold Blood”.  On the minus side, when he talked, he sounded like a Peter Brady pre-pubescent 13 year old boy which a high squeaky voice.  Also, while he tried to be funny and engaging for the entire show, he lacked in the funny part.   No matter what the venue, a lead singer should not be telling the crowd, “I have to pee”...then leave the stage to relieve himself.

Now for the band – musically speaking these guys were spot on.  Founding members and dual guitar players Ronnie “10/10” Younkins and Brian “Damage” Forsythe were right up my alley.   These guys fed off each other flawlessly on stage and jumped up on uniquely placed risers to better showcase their talents.  Jimmy “Chocolate” Chalfant was a mad-man banging away on the skins and back-up vocals while Mark “I Don’t Have A Nickname” Schenker was front stage as the bass player and back-up vocals.  The show included many good songs including “Blow My Fuse”, “Get It While Its Hot”, “Cold Shower” and “Midnite Dynamite” – while obscure to most, these tunes were very well known and received well by this lively Kix crowd. 

While most encores complete a show with the bands’ big score tunes (the Rock N Roll money shot, if you will), Kix went a different route - they ended the show with a lesser known song called “Yeah, Yeah, Yeah” and littered the stage with huge colorful balloons.  Definitely different but strangely fun.

My new goal in my Wolf Den life will be to get Vick to a Kix show and see his reaction. 

Randall