Styx and Foreigner’s extremely anticipated co-headlining present on the Budweiser Stage in Toronto on June 14th, 2024 was a real musical marvel that left the gang captivated from begin to end. The night kicked off with a rousing efficiency by John Waite, the previous frontman of the enduring band Dangerous English, who set the tone for the evening with a mesmerizing 8-song set checklist.
Waite’s highly effective vocals and charismatic stage presence had the modest however enthusiastic crowd singing alongside to hits like Lacking You, Each Time I Consider You, and Once I See You Smile. Regardless of the passage of time, the singer’s vocals remained as sturdy and emotive as ever, proving that he’s nonetheless a real crowd-pleaser. His efficiency was the right warm-up for the principle occasion, leaving the viewers eagerly anticipating the arrival of Styx and Foreigner.
Subsequent up was co-headliner Foreigner. By that point the venue had stuffed up, the legendary band took the stage and instantly captivated the viewers with their unparalleled stage presence and impeccable musicianship.
The vocals had been completely wonderful, with the harmonizing on level all through your complete set. It’s been 47 years because the launch of their first self titled album, in line with Hansen. Their 11-song setlist featured all of their largest hits, together with the enduring Chilly as Ice and Feels Just like the First Time.
The present opened with the highly effective Double Imaginative and prescient and concluded with the crowd-pleasing Scorching Blooded. Lead singer Kelly Hansen was a power to be reckoned with, his vitality and stage presence harking back to the legendary Steven Tyler. He effortlessly commanded the stage, leaping and shifting about with unbelievable vigor.
Drummer Chris Frazier delivered a charming solo that allowed Hansen to navigate via the gang unnoticed, solely to rise above the viewers on a cylinder riser to carry out the beloved Juke Field Hero. The group went wild!
Throughout I Need to Know What Love is, a youngsters’s choir joined the band on stage for what could be a robust second.
Bassist Jeff Pilson, regardless of donning two knee braces, moved gracefully across the expansive stage, whereas guitarist Bruce Watson maintained a everlasting smile, by no means lacking a single word. Michael Bluestein tickled the keys with ease infusing melodies all through, and rounding out the band was guitarist Luis Maldonado, who has been with Foreigner since 2021. Collectively, this seasoned group of musicians delivered a efficiency that left the viewers in awe, solidifying Foreigner’s standing as one of many best rock bands of all time.
Styx delivered an unforgettable efficiency that showcased their unbelievable musicianship and enduring legacy. The veteran band, that includes co-founding members guitarist James Younger, and bassist Chuck Panozzo, together with longtime members akin to singer / keyboardist Lawrence Gowan, guitarist / vocals Tommy Shaw, guitarist Will Evankovich, drummer Todd Sucherman, and their newest member Terry Gowan on bass.
Styx captivated the viewers with their 14-song setlist, together with fan favorites akin to Girl, Come Sail Away and Renegade.
The spotlight of the night was the return of their basic hit Mr. Roboto after a 34-year hiatus, a lot to the delight of the followers. Halfway via the set, the band additionally handled the gang to Gowan’s solo work, performing the track A Felony Thoughts.
All through the present, Styx demonstrated why they’re thought-about one of many OG bands within the business. Their tight-knit chemistry and technical prowess had been on full show, leaving little doubt about their standing as true musical legends. The sound technicians additionally deserve reward for the impeccable combine, which solely added to the general enjoyment of the night.
Revisiting the glory days of Styx, this live performance was a real celebration of the band’s enduring impression on the music business. Followers left the venue with a renewed appreciation for the timeless classics and the unbelievable expertise that has outlined Styx’s legacy.
A particular because of Dwell Nation and the bands managements for accreditations.
All photographs are ©Sue Sadzak Hebert 2024. Please don’t use with out consent.
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