Keane

Although not much British Top 40 ever makes it across the pond, every now and then, one of these British giants will extend their tour to America. Last night, was a rare occasion such as this, we were treated to Keane with special guests Ingrid Michaelson, and Fran Healy from Travis After having to miss the Arctic Monkeys in April because I was in Coachella, hell or high water, I was not going to miss Keane.
After I was informed the show was expected to last four hours, I advised my pregnant guest that maybe we should sit in the lobby a while in an effort to preserve energy for Keane. After entering the venue, she asked the event staff if we could have a seat and they quickly allowed us a seat in the balcony area. Even though our view was limited, the comfort level was far superior to standing elbow to elbow on the floor, and we were very grateful to the accommodating House of Blues. If I would have known it was as easy as asking, we would not have waited outside in the lobby and missed Fran Healy from Travis.
I must admit, when I saw Ingrid Michaelson listed on the ticket, I did not know who she was. After I heard her unmistakable voice, I knew exactly who she was. I do not think I have ever been treated to such a powerful, clear, and clean vocal performance from a female artist. Ingrid Michaelson showed off her amazing talent by transitioning from a near a’capella The Way I Am, to a “slightly different version,” which sounded more like The Donnas. Ingrid also showed her sense of humor by saying, “We’re just doing this for shoots and goggles," and closed with a cover of Britney Spear’s Toxic. Ingrid and her band exited the stage to a choreographed little dance, which got the audience to give a well-deserved standing ovation.
Keane came out shortly after, opening with their first track on Night Train, House Lights. Keane proceeded to bring the house down with Back In Time, Bend & Break, Everybody's Changing, A Bad Dream, Again and Again, Nothing in My Way, This is the Last Time, and Stop For a Minute. I was quite surprised how loud and lively Keane played their songs, sounding even better than their records. At one point during the show, Tom commented, "Technically anything that could go wrong, has gone wrong." I was taken aback by this comment, as I truly thought their production was seamless. Piano player, Tim Rice-Oxley was playing stacked keyboards with ferocity, moving his feet about like Jerry Lee Lewis. All of Keane, even the additional guitarist, were full of energy and really gave us their all.
The band left the stage and lead singer, Tom Chaplin did beautiful acoustic version of Playing Along. A few other band members joined the stage for another acoustic song, Try Again. The backdrop changed from just Keane to the graphic off their latest album, Night Train. Tom Claplin exclaimed, "This is a love song to this great country," and played Clear Skies. Keane played on with You Haven't Told Me Anything, Is It Any Wonder?, and Your Love which was sang beautifully by Tim (piano). They brought the show down slowly and sweetly with Perfect Symmetry, Somewhere Only We Know, and Bedshaped. As he walked off stage, Tom exclaimed, "Vegas you are the perfect audience. Singing every song."
The balcony all rose to their feet, the crowd below chanted “Keane, Keane,” and the House of Blues erupted in full applause. The band came out smiling, seemingly humbled by the overwhelming response from their American fans. Tom praised Fran Healy from Travis and thanked their fans and everyone for supporting their efforts for the past twelve years. They played My Shadow, and Crystal Ball for an encore before ending their two hour performance.
Many fans rushed over to the merch table to get some keepsakes and rave about the great show we had just seen. I thought Keane and Ingrid put on award winning concerts, not only in quality and talent, but in energy as well. I will admit I was a little brokenhearted Keane did not play Spiraling, but considering that was my only negative, this was a great concert and a must see for any British rock fan.

Thrice with Kevin Devine, Bad Veins, and The Dig

Tonight was the rescheduled show for Thrice with special guests Kevin Devine, Bad Veins, and The Dig. Thrice was originally scheduled to play with Manchester Orchestra on May 7th, but that show was canceled for unknown reasons. When we arrived to the House of Blues, there were no lines and people were sparse. For a minute I wondered if they had again canceled. House of Blues event staff informed me that not many tickets were sold for this show and there were roughly 400 people here.
I was quite surprised by the music of Bad Veins and Kevin Devine. Both were indie, slow and mellow; not at all the type of music I expected to open for Thrice. I have no doubt that both groups are talented, but I'm sorry, why are you opening for Thrice? I asked that question to a fellow fan. I was informed that Thrice's music has changed over the last decade, transitioning from their hardcore first album to a more experimental, alternative rock style over the last few years. Kevin Devine closed his performance with at least six shirtless guys running around stage; it was like a weird Abercrombie music video.
At this point, I wasn't sure what to think, left feeling completely out of touch and out of place. I came expecting to run around the pit, head bang and throw fists with my eye-lined counterparts, but there was none of that to be had. I stayed for about two hours. When I noticed the Thrice sound men were having problems getting their mics and keyboard to work properly, I actually called it quits and left. I ultimately regretted this decision, as I really would have liked to see Thrice, but I just couldn't be in the House of Blues a minute longer.

Lamb of God with Hatebreed

Tonight, the House of Blues hosted another face melting metal show, Lamb of God with Hatebreed and 3 Inches of Blood. Heavy metal shows at the House of Blues are often favorites of mine because the sound is monumental in the small venue and it is one of the last places you can still get wild in the mosh pit. I knew long time veterans Lamb of God and Hatebreed were sure blast our ears and keep the pit spinning.
Although we just missed 3 Inches of Blood, we walked in just as Hatebreed took the stage. Lead singer, Jamey Jasta was full of energy, running and jumping all across the stage, keeping the audience in a constant frenzy. Fans were treated to a nearly full setlist to get warmed up to: Everyone Bleeds Now, In Ashes They Shall Reap, Smash Your Enemies, To The Threshold, Facing What Consumes You, As Diehard as They Come, Proven, Defeatist, Destroy Everything, This is Now, closing with I Will Be Heard. Hatebreed left the crowd with fists in the air and already covered in sweat. Since the last time I saw Hatebreed, I can only say their live show and fan base has only gotten stronger.
After another drink and a trip to the merch table, Lamb of God broke the silence with heavy drums and fierce guitars. Vocalist Randy Blythe, was usually in perched on the front speaker, swinging his hair around in union with the rest of the band. The whole band radiated metal energy, creating an enormous paint-peeling sound. We were in the middle of an elbow to elbow floor, pits broke out all around, and everyone was headbanging. This high energy crowd not only made the show more fun, but we also fueled Lamb of God's energy, as they playing an exhausting set. In the best order I remember: The Passing, In Your Words, Contractor, Set to Fail, Walk With Me In Hell, As The Palaces Burn, Hourglass, Now You've Got Something To Die For, Ruin, Blacken the Cursed Sun, Descending, Vigil, Omerta and finally their guitar hero famous Laid to Rest. Lamb of God came out for a two song encore, Redneck and Black Label, exclaiming “It’s time to get you money’s worth!” Both Hatbreed and Lamb of God each dedicated a song to their heavy metal gods, the late Ronnie James Dio and Vinnie Paul. Both bands also put on loud, solid, high-energy performances that rallied the audience non-stop. We all left the performance covered in sweat and a little bruised, only catching our breath just enough to exclaim what a great show it was. I thought, and laughed for a minute, after seeing Lamb of God’s performance, I am convinced Metalocalypse was based on them. They are true metal through and through, fans loved it, and was one of the best metal performances I have ever seen!
\\nn// \\nn//

Joe Rogan

Tonight, the House of Blues became the House of Comedy, presenting Joe Rogan and special guest Sam Tripoli. I noticed Joe Rogan seems to do a stand-up routine every few months, so i figured he must be doing something right. This was my first House of Comedy show and I was unsure what to expect.
We walked in to find the House completely seated, the bars were empty, and Sam Tripoli had just taken the stage. It took me a minute to adjust myself, as I am used to seeing this place packed wall to wall and filled with so much clamored, you can barely hear yourself think. We went to the bar, ordered a few drinks and enjoyed a few minutes of the show before being shown to our seats. I must say, front row balcony at the House of Blues, are some of the best seats I have ever had!
Sam had the audience’s full attention, actively acting out his jokes, cutting the stillness with eruptions of laughter. I enjoyed his nonchalant approach to comedy, being frank about several over the top experiences and ridiculous observations he had. During his closing joke, Sam got distracted by a pair of large breasts in the front row. He mumbled, “Big ol’ titties. Can’t concentrate... Where was I?” It was a great ending to his performance.
Joe Rogan ran on-stage with lots of energy and immediately got the audience involved by talking about his Las Vegas experiences. In the early morning hours, at any strip club in town, you think a man is passed out in his chair, a stripper comes along, grinds a little bit, and what do ya know, he’s got another hour left in him. Then how shameful it is for a grown man to walk out of the Spearmint Rhino, after a night of partying, and the sun is already up. After Joe went though this bit, I knew we were in for some raunchy stories.
Joe's comedy was no holds bar, seemingly done right on the fly. His stories ranged from the heaven / hell of live child birth, to the fear of being raped by Broc Lesnar, to two girls one cup and a more graphic video he was shown. One of the highlights of his performance was when he got in trouble with the UFC for calling a move "rape choke" on national TV. So you have to ask yourself, "Why hire a pot head comedian to be the face of UFC?"
As frank and dry as his attitude was, I had to wonder myself. Most of the audience was dying in their seats, with a few poor souls that did not appreciate some of the topics. There was a running theme, any situation that was kinda queer, he would begin to mockingly sing Hey There Delilah, by the Plain White T's. Joe wiggled around the stage, “You can’t listen to that song without wanting to rub your legs like a cricket.”
I thought Joe Rogan was hilarious, keeping us laughing nearly non-stop. I got the distinct impression that he was just a regular guy, sharing stories about experiences many of us can relate to. That's the best comedy right there, being able to joke about the truth and embarrassment of real life. He was bold, straight-forward and no bullshit. Joe Rogan is often in town for UFC fights and periodically also schedules a stand-up show at House of Blues. I would highly recommend him to any stand-up comedy fan.

The Psychedelic Furs & She Wants Revenge

The Psychedelic Furs with special guests She Wants Revenge. Yes! I have been anxiously awaiting this show for months. I saw She Wants Revenge at the House of Blues in 2006 and was lucky enough to see Adam of SWR play a private DJ set, upstairs at Mix; It was one the best nights I’ve ever had! The cherry on top was getting a chance to see the highly influential The Psychedelic Furs.
We arrived just after She Wants Revenge played Red Flags & Long Nights, These Things, and True Romance. They sounded a great as I remember, this time with a drummer, a guitarist, Adam and Justin, with his deep lingering vocals. They played three great new songs, Suck It Up, Maybe She’s Right, and Kiss Me. Justin addressed the audience, “You may remember these two,” and SWR finished strong with Out of Control and Tear You Apart. I was once again so pleased to see She Wants Revenge, only wishing they could have played longer.
After a short break, The Psychedelic Furs opened with Love My Way. I was impressed how many members make up The Psychedelic Furs and how equally voluminous their sound is. The Butler brothers matched the band's lively energy by engaging the audience, dancing about the stage, and singing along.
The Psychedelic Furs transitioned between old and new songs without missing a beat. Songs included Believe, Heartbeat, The Ghost in You, Like a Stranger, So Run Down, President Gas, In My Head, Sister Europe, She Is Mine, Heaven, All of This and Nothing, and wrapped up with their infectious Pretty in Pink. After a few minutes of cheering and clapping, the Furs returned for an encore, playing two new songs which I did not recognize.
Both SWR and The Psychedelic Furs played downbeat new-wave grooves that kept the audience dancing and singing all night. Although the crowd was small, there was much applause between tracks and by the looks of all the smiling faces, you could tell everyone was a fan. Neither one of us knew what to expect from The Psychedelic Furs and were completely taken aback by how great they were. If you are into new-wave, both She Wants Revenge and The Psychedelic Furs are a must see!

Insane Clown Posse with Coolio, Kittie, and Necro

I must say, Insane Clown Posses with Coolio, Kittie, and Necro, was one of the most interesting line-ups I had seen in a while. Due to the Juggalo counter-culture, I had very mixed feelings about attending this show, but pulled through for Necro and Kitty. The Juggalos were out in full force, but must have been disappointed when they arrived, the ticket read, “No face paint. No Exceptions.”
Tried as we might, left work early, made it to the show 20 minutes late and still missed Necro. We weren’t even aware he had been on-stage until after we asked his merch booth. Needless to say, the fact that he was only onstage for 15 minutes and we missed it was pretty weak. For a minute, my guest considered driving to Tempe the next night to see Necro.

Kittie came on-stage and melted faces with their grinding heavy metal. Screaming vocals, a hair swinging bassist, trashing guitars, and heavy double bass rattled the walls. Kittie really tore it up, got me head-banging in no time. Unfortunately, Kittie didn’t receive the praise they deserved. The audience started chanting “I.C.P.” near the end of their set. Before they played their last song, they thanked I.C.P, and she screamed “We love Juggalos.” I was so rocked out, I could have gone home happy after their performance.
Coolio also put on a great high energy performance. Similar to a M.C. Hammer show, Coolio had several musicians, a saxophone player, and some family members with him on stage. Coolio brought the house down, tearing his shirt off and closing with Fantastic Voyage and Ganstar’s Paradise. Coolio exclaimed “I’m 56 years old, from California, but my home is in Las Vegas. I’m a fucking Juggalo!”

By now, the fans were exploding with energy, chants of “Faygo” echoed through the crowd every few minutes. Everyone had noticed the sheets of plastic covering the sound equipment and crammed themselves on the floor, awaiting the shower of Faygo that was soon to come. As @horrorcore_girl informed me, “heck yea faygo is like baptism for us!! whoop whoop”
The curtains opened to an elaborately decorated stage, large ICP flashing letters, two large Juggalo logos, shiny streamers, and five tables fully stocked with Faygo 2 liters. There were even Faygo guns set-up, ready to douse to audience at long range. An ICP version of the circus theme Entry Of The Gladiators was playing, and an ornately dressed ringleader came out and properly introduced Insane Clown Posse.
Insane Clown Posse did not disappoint their sea of fans. Shaggy was shaking up, spraying the crowd, and throwing a bottle of Faygo nearly every minute. There was a clown whose sole job was re-filling the tables with Faygo; it was an endless supply. During the chorus of many of their songs, streamers would pour down from the ceilings, and about eight clowns would come from backstage either spraying Faygo or throwing confetti . It was a total mess and the fans loved it every minute of it, singing, bouncing up and down, and having the time of their lives. I have never seen so many people fill the House of Blues , sing, chant, and unite as one massive fan.
The visuals were bold, watching the audience get doused near GWAR levels was entertaining, ICP sounded good and really put on an over the top show. ICP played Hocus Pocus, My Axe, The Show Must Go On, Murder Rap, Terrible, I Do This, Chicken Pluckin Huntin, Get Ya Wicked On, Guts On The Ceiling, Truly Alone, Fuck The World, Let’s Go All The Way, Assassins, and we made our exit during Miracles. “Fucking magnets, how do they work,” is where we draw the line.
Although we missed Necro, each artist put on a fantastic performance. Kittie, Coolio, and Insane Clown Posse was like going to three different shows, crammed into one evening. I would highly recommend checking out Kittie, Coolio, and Insane Clown Posse, whether you are a fan or not. Insane Clown Posse’s show is one of a kind and I am glad I got the chance to see it.

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony

Friday night’s show at the House of Blues was a real throwback, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. Not only was Bone ground-breaking in their unique style, their music was a true reflection of the times. Emerging in the midst of the early 90s East Coast / West Coast battle between rappers, Bone stood apart. When I found out Bone Thugs-N-Harmony was on tour, I flashed back, remembering how their music was attached to so many memories.
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony opened with Facts Don’t Lie. Each member came out onstage one-by-one when it was their verse. The audience gave a welcoming applause, and they continued with their new release Rebirth, then Days of Our Lives, First of Tha Month, No Surrender, and Frontline Warrior. However, Bizzy Bone never showed up and was never even mentioned, his verses were skipped, and he was never mentioned during the show.
Bone Thugs took time to show respect for their friends and fellow rappers that have passed on. They played Foe Tha Love Of $ for their mentor, Easy E, part of Biggie’s Hypnotize, then Crew of the Year, written by Tupac. Two of the Bones poured out a Corona on each side of the stage, “for the homies.” Later in the show, they also played tribute to Michael Jackson by singing Rock With You.
After their tribute, Bone paid homage to their favorite past-time, smoking weed. Only green stage lights were left on, DJ Ice set the intro for Sweet Jane, and the House of Blues enjoyed a smoke-out. Bone quickly brought the mood back up and wrapped up their set with some of my favorites; Thuggish Ruggish Bone, Crossroads, East 1999, I’m Gone, and Shots to the Double Glock, dousing the crowd with water as they sang the chorus, “Pop, pop, pop!”
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony thanked their fans and asked all the ladies to come onstage and dance. Within minutes, the stage was filled with ladies, dancing to a beat put on by the DJ. The stage slowly cleared, the house lights brightened, and the show ended slowly with an awkward fizzle.
Bone Thugs had proven true to their style, emanating a relaxed energy, and their harmonies filled the house. Although the show was not the best, we still had a great time. Their music still has as much of an effect on me as it did 15 years ago. I just want to ask Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, “What’s going on? Where’s Bizzy?”