The classic line-up of the rock band Styx has not been intact for almost 15 years but that hasn't stopped the current incarnation from recording a string of LIVE albums and touring the world playing the hits that made them famous.
In 2011 the band decided to depart from their usual greatest hits set list and decided to play their two most famous albums, "The Grand Illusion" & "Pieces Of Eight," back to back in their entirety. These shows are now documented in the brand new release "Styx: Grand Illusion & Pieces Of Eight LIVE."
The set consists of 2 CDs and 1 DVD and the performances are stellar throughout. Long time member Lawrence Gowan once again sings all the songs made famous by ousted founder Dennis DeYoung. Gowan's voice is pitch perfect and he brings a sense of humor and energy that has really invigorated Styx as a dynamic LIVE band. Rarely played tunes like "I'm Okay" and "Pieces Of Eight" are high points in the show and that's saying a lot when played next to perennial crowd pleasers: "Come Sail Away," "Renegade," "Grand Illusion" & "Blue Collar Man."
Long time dueling guitarists JY Young and Tommy Shaw plus drummer Todd Sucherman and newest addition bassist Ricky Phillips (The Babys, Bad English, Coverdale/Page) round out the current line-up. If you're lucky original bassist Chuck Panozzo will show up for a few tunes as well... yes Panozzo is featured here!
If you like your classic rock played loud & fast with a bit of melody & harmony thrown in for good measure then watching "Styx: Grand Illusion & Pieces Of Eight LIVE" is the perfect way to spend an evening.
Drumroll please... 8 out of 10 drumsticks!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment