August 10, 2023 – Starland Ballroom, Sayreville NJ
Review by Christopher Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry
Celebrating and promoting the release of their new album “Extreme Six”, Extreme with special guest Living Colour graced NJ this summer with a stop in Sayreville at the famed Starland Ballroom. It was an epic show of two iconic bands from the mid 80’s who rose to prominence at the height of MTV Music Videos.
Opening the evening was Living Colour, the popular American rock band from New York City, formed in 1984 most known for their hit single Cult of Personality. The band currently consists of guitarist Vernon Reid, lead vocalist Corey Glover, drummer Will Calhoun and bassist Doug Wimbish. Despite retaining their strong fan base, Living Colour disbanded in January 1995 after failing to settle on common musical goals during their fourth studio album sessions. Following the breakup, individual band members released a variety of solo efforts. Today they’ve come together supporting Extreme’s global tour providing fans with some new songs they’re working on as a follow up to their 2017 studio album “Shade”, while also performing fan favorites of old.
The Starland Ballroom is as close up and intimate of a music experience one can get. It feels as if you can reach out and touch the performers as they’re so close while on stage. Corey Glover in true frontman form, made the experience even more close and personal as he left the stage and walked through the crowd singing their Cult of Personality anthem to close out their performance, jumping up on the two bars that flanked the venue and interacting with the audience who were singing along to every word. While time has passed Corey still has his dreadlocks flying and belting his strong vocals while the band remains as tight as ever with great guitars and epic drumming. It was a very cool performance which tapped into all the senses of the packed house.
As Living Colour finished they injected the crowd with excitement and anticipation for Extreme. Extreme is an American rock band formed in Boston, Massachusetts in 1985 and reached the height of their popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s. They band consists of Gary Cherone (vocals), Nuno Bettencourt (vocals/guitar), Patrick Badger (bass) and Kevin Figueiredo (drums). They have released six studio albums, two EPs and two compilation albums since their formation. Tonight and on this tour they promote their latest “Extreme Six” album which has an image of a massive gorilla face with red eyes as their album cover and stage backdrop. I noticed (and Nuno recognized) one concert goer had made his way to the front row in a full gorilla costume, showing significant superfan support for the bands new album.
Extreme might be best known for the evergreen acoustic ballad More Than Words – but they are no one-hit wonder. Guitarist and songwriter Nuno Bettencourt has come to terms with the fact that many people will probably know them for only that one song from 1991, but says their fans know the real deal and it was apparent tonight. Joining Bettencourt is long time singer, songwriter and charismatic frontman Gary Cherone who leaves a lasting impact not just through his stage presence but also through his contributions to the band’s music over the years. I’ve seen and reviewed Cherone before. What I love about him is how he possesses a versatile and powerful vocal range that allows him to tackle a wide variety of vocal styles. From soulful and emotive ballads to energetic rock anthems, Cherone’s voice is capable of delivering both tender and aggressive performances. His vocal technique is notable for its ability to convey emotion and connect with listeners. As a frontman, Cherone’s ability to convey emotion and connect with the audience is one of his strongest attributes. He has a captivating, acrobatic stage presence that draws the audience in, and his expressive performances add depth and authenticity to the band’s live shows.
Cherone’s partner in crime and guitarist extraordinaire Nuno Bettencourt is a highly skilled and innovative guitarist known for his distinctive style that blends various musical elements. Bettencourt’s guitar playing style is a fusion of technical prowess, melodic sensibility, rhythmic creativity, and a willingness to push boundaries. His ability to seamlessly incorporate various techniques and genres sets him apart as a highly respected and influential guitarist.
Nuno is renowned for his proficient use of “finger-tapping” technique, where he taps on the fretboard with his right hand fingers to produce rapid and melodic patterns. His finger-tapping style adds a unique flair to his playing and allows him to create intricate solos and harmonies. I was mesmerized at how fast and crisp he was and how he incorporates rhythmic and percussive elements into his guitar playing. He often employs slap and pop techniques, as well as strumming patterns that emulate drum rhythms, giving his guitar parts a distinct groove and energy. His playing style seems to not be limited to a specific genre. Nuno effortlessly blends elements of rock, pop, funk, jazz, and even classical music into his guitar work, resulting in a versatile and eclectic sound.
I’ve never seen Extreme before and absolutely loved the show for their sense of intimacy despite playing to a large crowd. Gary Cherone’s interactions with the audience, including sing-alongs and call-and-response moments, create a sense of unity that transforms the venue into an inclusive and participatory space. Extreme provides a live music experience which is a journey through rock, funk, and emotion. The band’s tight-knit chemistry, electrifying performance, and engaging stage presence made for an unforgettable evening filled with musical excellence and pure entertainment. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer, an Extreme concert is a must-see event that captures the essence of rock ‘n’ roll at its finest.
For more info please visit http://www.extreme-band.com