This was a definitely a great night of fun. It was also a trip back into the 1970's rock. Two bands that toured together back in those days, got together again, and did what they do best. They rocked hard!
Starz were a 1970s great hard rock band. They were not overly successful, but incredibly respected and liked by the fans and peers alike. The band took the stage, and sizable crowd began to form in front. There were all kinds of people in the audience, young and old. Some able to remember the band's glory days from the 70s, and some seeing the group for the first time and counting their luck.
Starz started with Live Wire, followed it with Tear It Down, and Fallen Angel. The band felt very comfortable on stage, and delivered one great tune after another. Singer, Michael Lee Smith appeared in a Scottish kilt. He was in great shape vocally, and told some very cool stories and anecdotes between the songs. Guitarist, Richie Ranno, played a very smooth set, even unleashing his double neck guitar. And Joe X Dube provided a solid beat, and his one of a kind attitude.
It was clear that Starz had a great time on stage. Their sleazy rock approach found quick approval from the audience who was enjoying this set tremendously. Chip Z-Nuff added a local flavor and joined the band for one track. It was fun. They could've been the headliner. Nobody would mind. Judging from the crowd's response, Starz better make another visit to Chicago very soon.
Newly reformed Angel was the main attraction of the evening. Angel were another legendary band from the 1970s who a great cult following. This incarnation of Angel features vocalist Frank DiMino, and guitarist, Punky Meadows as the two key players. The rest of the band was rounded up by newer players who were very good at carrying out the great music. DiMino and Meadows were responsible for the majority of the writing the Angel material.
The band appeared in their signature white uniforms, which added a lot to the overall spectacle. They gave the show they were known for, and the fans loved it. It quickly became very clear that both DiMino and Meadows still had what it took to put on a great show. DiMino was nailing some high notes he is known for, and meadows showed some great guitar work. The man can definitely solo, and he is very unique in his approach.
It was great to hear the classic Angel material from all of their albums. Those were seasoned and well tested songs. The band simply couldn't go wrong. The delivery was superb, and the backing players really stepped up their game to make sure it was an absolutely perfect performance, and it was. This really felt great and both sides of the stage felt the energy being channeled. Songs like On The Rocks, Mirrors, Can You Feel It, or Wild and Hot were instant hits with the audience, and many sang along with DiMino.
Angel is about to record a new album, and validate their reunion. This performance certainly indicated that all is well in the Angel camp. The band was tight and well rehearsed, but above all, they connected with the audience at ease. Their set was dynamic and well planned. We can only hope for more activity from this great but very underrated band.
As mentioned above, this was a very fun night. There were a lot of true fans for both Starz and Angel who left very satisfied. There was some people who complained about this and that, but you simply can't have it all. Let's be honest, both bands had players in their 60s, and that is a very demanding age. But just the fact they were willing to get on stage, have fun, play a solid set, and give some joy to the fans needs to be admired. As for this writer, I loved this evening and would gladly repeat the experience!
Mark Kadzielawa
Gallery:
STARZ
ANGEL:
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