music

Todd Rundgren

Concert Reviews

May 9th – Count Basie Center for the Arts, Red Bank NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

Todd Rundgren’s concert at the Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, NJ on May 9th was a masterclass in musical versatility and showmanship, leaving attendees spellbound. Rundgren treated the crowd to a two hour experience that touched on all phases of his long career on his Me/We Tour.

The concert was a testament to Rundgren’s enduring influence on the music industry. The night focused primarily on his work within the past 20 years or so, but he also played a medley of some 70’s hits and all of ‘The Last Ride’ as part of the encore. Expect the unexpected when it comes to set lists with Rundgren as he tends to tour what he wants, whether it’s a new album or a theme of his choice. From a technical standpoint, Rundgren and his band were flawless. Each song was executed with precision, yet still maintained a raw, organic energy that kept the audience captivated from start to finish.

Todd Rundgren’s concert was a tour de force performance that showcased the talents of a true musical icon. Experiencing Rundgren live was both humbling and exhilarating, serving as a reminder of the boundless possibilities of music when placed in the hands of a true innovator.

For more info please visit http://www.todd-rundgren.com

Setlist

  1. I Think You Know
  2. Secret Society
  3. Weakness
  4. Stood Up
  5. Lost Horizon
  6. Buffalo Grass
  7. Beloved Infidel
  8. Hit Me Like a Train
  9. Wouldn’t You Like to Know
  10. Sweet
  11. Kindness
  12. Woman’s World
  13. Afterlife
  14. Down With the Ship
  15. Honest Work
  16. Rock Love
  17. God Said
  18. Fascist Christ
  19. Hawking
  20. Worldwide Epiphany
  21. I Saw the Light / Can We Still Be Friends / Hello It’s Me (Encore)
  22. The Last Ride (Encore)
  23. A Dream Goes on Forever (Encore)

JOHN 5

Concert Reviews

February 15, 2024 – Gramercy Theatre, NYC

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

Electrifying Night of Shredding as John 5 Rocks Gramercy Theater

The Gramercy Theater in the heart of New York City was transformed into a haven for guitar enthusiasts as the virtuoso guitarist John 5 took the stage in a night that can only be described as electrifying. The air was thick with anticipation as fans eagerly awaited the performance of this iconic musician, known for his incredible skills and diverse musical influences. I love these venues in NYC as often major musicians will show up supporting their craft and the musicians they influenced. Some of those notable influences were present on this evening as Ace Frehley (founder and original member of KISS) and Kerry King (co-lead guitarist and songwriter of thrash metal band Slayer) sat on stools, side-stage soaking in the performance. At one point in the show John 5 offered a gesture of gratitude for Ace, having been a major influence on his career and the reason he first picked up a guitar.

From the moment John 5 stepped into the spotlight, the venue was ablaze with the fiery energy of his guitar riffs. Absent were his elaborate wardrobe and makeup as he donned black jeans and a black leather jacket with the #5 on back, but the choice seemed to fit the more intimate venue and solo appearance. The opening chords resonated through the theater, setting the tone for a night of musical mastery. While this was a solo performance from John 5 he was backed by his drummer and his guitar tech filled in on bass during the last set. It’s not a rock show or a thundering guitar performance unless a speaker blows and at the completion of John 5’s third song, that’s what happened.  John 5 announced to the crowd he blew a speaker and mentioned he wanted to give the crowd the show they paid for and the excellence they expect, so he said he would be right back once his techs fix the issue. The crowd didn’t seem to mind one bit, agreeing with pleasure to the short pause.  The issue was rectified in 5 minutes, and John 5 came back on stage shredding!

One of the most remarkable aspects of John 5’s performance was his ability to seamlessly blend various genres into a cohesive sonic experience. The setlist traversed through a kaleidoscope of styles, from metal to country, and even hints of jazz, showcasing his versatility as a guitarist. Each transition was flawless, a testament to John 5’s technical prowess and his deep understanding of different musical idioms.

The connection between John 5 and the audience was palpable. The crowd, a mix of other musicians, devoted fans and curious onlookers, responded enthusiastically to every bend of the strings and every lightning-fast solo. There were moments of collective awe as he effortlessly navigated the fretboard, leaving no doubt that he is a true maestro of the guitar.

There were visuals that complemented the auditory spectacle, with cool videos of old movie clips, horror and fight films, and more were attached to the Amps and visible to all which enhanced the overall experience. The interplay of lights and shadows created a dynamic backdrop, accentuating the intensity of the music. The atmosphere was further heightened by giant headed characters on stage as if a page out of Alice Cooper’s shows as well as fan initiated large balloons bouncing overhead which added a theatrical dimension to the performance.

Throughout the night, John 5 took the audience on a musical journey, changing guitars and styles (even a Bass) with just about every song. The sheer technicality and emotion displayed during his segments were a testament to John 5’s mastery of his instruments.

As the final notes reverberated through The Gramercy Theater, the crowd erupted in applause, demanding an encore. John 5 obliged, returning to the stage for a few final exhilarating performances, including some Motley Crew who he has now joined and will be on tour with, which left an indelible mark on everyone present.

John 5’s performance at Gramercy Theater was nothing short of extraordinary. His technical brilliance, genre-spanning repertoire, and magnetic stage presence created a musical experience that will be remembered by all fortunate enough to witness it. For fans of guitar virtuosity, this was an unforgettable night of shredding and sonic exploration.

For more info please visit http://www.john-5official.com

Steve Vai

Concert Reviews

October 29, 2022 – Count Basie Center for the Arts Theater, Red Bank, NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

Guitar God Steve Vai descended upon Red Bank NJ this past weekend in support of his new studio album and LP, “Inviolate” which was released earlier this year through: Favored Nations / Mascot Label Group.

Notably one of the best guitarists of all time, the virtuoso is also an accomplished and highly acclaimed musical composer and producer, fluent in the composition and arranging of orchestral music. Throughout his 40 years in the industry, Vai has sold over 15 million records, received three Grammy Awards, and recorded with music legends like Frank Zappa, David Lee Roth, Whitesnake and many more.  

I first saw Vai playing a double necked, red, heart shaped guitar with David Lee Roth at the Worcester Centrum in the late 80’s.  And while I don’t remember much of the late 80’s (for reasons I will not disclose), I do remember very well how floored I was by his technical ability and overall electrifying performance. So when time came around for me to see him again, but this time to review the show, I was ecstatic and could not wait to hear him shred.  He did not disappoint!

One can tell the influence Steve has on musicians, and any lover of guitar playing, by the people that packed in to see him. The crowded house, was filled with musicians and fans young and old. I saw a good handful of parents with their musically inclined kids lined up at the merch table, where Vai’s team should have also been handing out “Parent of the Year” awards for providing their kids the opportunity to see the guitar legend live.  

Steve came out to a blacked out stage with just the blue glow of his guitar frets visible as he approach center stage.  It was a cool scene as he ripped away at his instrument (which seemed a natural extension to his body), appropriately hooking every applauding fan in for the evening.  From that moment on I was glued to the performance. Every style for which Vai is known for was showcased to perfection. I found it hard to look anywhere else but at the fingers on his guitar as he demonstrated two-handed tapping, alternate picking, legato, hybrid picking, sweep picking, whammy bar acrobatics, and circular vibrato. It was amazing.  When I did glace away from his guitar it was to his facial expressions which illustrated how the music he creates flows through his body.

We were launched into an amazing evening of guitar rock!  Vai wore a fluorescent green shirt (his favorite color) and had multiple guitar swaps (as you would imagine), which he played to perfection including: “Avalancha”, “Little Pretty”, “Greenish Blues”, “Teeth Of The Hydra”& “Taurus Bulba”.

Vai’s performance was complimented by a talented group of musicians. Dave Weiner on guitar, Philip Bynoe on bass and drummer Jeremy Colson on drums. Colson was just as electrifying as he was when I saw him here in NJ at the Stone Pony while he was touring with Sebastian Bach.

There are about 25 shows remaining on his tour, concluding in LA on December 3rd.  Make sure to check his schedule and if he’s playing near you (or even if you have to travel to get there) don’t miss it!  

For more info please visit http://www.vai.com