October 26, 2024 – Borgata Hotel and Casino, Atlantic City NJ
Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry
“The Wild Boys” were back visiting Atlantic City. The iconic English Pop/Rock band and innovators of the music video, Duran Duran played to a sold out show at the Borgata Hotel & Casino, allowing fans from all over a glimpse into the bands vibrant world.
The crowd was waiting in anticipation as a DJ warmed up the audience playing 80’s themed hits… and as the lights finally dimmed and the opening notes of “Night Boat” filled the venue, the crowd erupted in applause, signaling that they were ready for a night of reminiscence.
Known for their fashion forward style, the band, comprised of Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor and Dominic Brown, appeared effortlessly cool, dressed in sleek outfits that echoed their ’80s glam roots while feeling contemporary. Le Bon’s charismatic presence shone throughout the evening and while it seemed he was suffering from a head cold, his voice was still as strong as ever, effortlessly hitting the high notes that have defined their classic tracks.
The setlist seemed carefully curated as it was full of fan favorites with some newer material masterfully balanced in. Classics like “Hungry Like the Wolf”, “Notorious”, “The Reflex”, and “Union of the Snake” had the audience singing along with every word, while some newer tracks showcased the band’s continued evolution. Each song was met with enthusiastic cheers, and the energy in the room was electric.
Visually, the concert was stunning. Duran Duran’s signature aesthetic was enhanced by a captivating light show that danced in sync with the music. The backdrop featured a mix of striking visuals, from retro clips to modern graphics, adding depth to the performance.
As the night progressed, the energy in the room only intensified. The infectious groove of “Come Undone” had everyone on their feet, dancing and singing along. The encore, featuring “Save a Prayer” and the timeless “Rio,” left the audience craving more, but also satisfied with a night well spent. The famed stylish 5 brought an electrifying performance that reminded fans why this iconic band has endured for decades.
The Borgata’s setting, with its upscale ambiance, made for an enjoyable concert experience. The venue’s acoustics amplified every note, allowing the lush soundscapes of Duran Duran to envelop the audience completely.
As a product of the 80’s myself, Duran Duran has been one of my favorites ever since they burst onto the scene as what has been described as the MTV led, Second British Invasion. They delivered a performance that was both a celebration of their illustrious career and a testament to their ongoing relevance in today’s music scene. For those fortunate enough to be in attendance, it was a night of unforgettable memories and a reminder of why this band continues to shine brightly, decades after their rise to fame. Here’s hoping they’ll be back for another round soon! I’ll be sure not to miss it. AND, happy birthday Simon!
For more info, please visit http://www.duranduran.com