Two rock behemoths have joined forces this summer
Styx and Foreigner have joined forces for the Renegades and Juke Box Heroes co-headlining tour. The double 90-minute sets focus on each band’s respective greatest hits. Swapping first and second positions nightly, Styx closed out the evening at Jiffy Lube Live on July 24th, while Foreigner started things.
Kelly Hansen remains one of the most energetic frontmen in rock and roll. His right hand seemed to stay permanently in the air as he and Foreigner powered through their theatrically-styled rock.
Foreigner took the stage with a one-two punch of “Double Vision” and “Head Games.” The opening piano plunks on the power ballad “Cold as Ice” received a huge reaction.
For a stage setup, Foreigner chose a corrugated metal look for their light rig and risers. A 12-ft long sign hung above them with their name. At one point, Hansen appeared on a rising circular base in the middle of the crowd. It escalated Hansen four stories above the fans, a striking image for the jukebox hero.
Toward the close of their set, Foreigner welcomed the South Loudon Youth Chorale to join them on “I Wanna Know What Love Is.” Lead singer Hansen told TMU all about their frequent partnership with local schools to give young singers this special opportunity.
With no original members currently touring—Mick Jones remains a member with great musical input behind the scenes—Foreigner is on a farewell tour. While it may not be original members on stage, the heart of their stage show remains the same. It’s worth seeing before they pack it in.
Styx continues to tour with three members from the 1970s. James Young, Chuck Panozzo, and Tommy Shaw. The group opened with “The Grand Illusion,” a bombastic song with over-the-top synth riffs that culminate in a rousing vocal. Interesting fact: the dramatic nature of “The Grand Illusion,” not to mention its song title, has made the number a tireless favorite of stage magicians globally. (Yes, this writer is aware he’s in a unique position to report this. I have first-hand knowledge.)
All of Styx’s music could be called “grand rock.” Their sound is so big, it nearly blew the roof off the amphitheater.
Styx’s more elaborate set included a second-level platform on stage, which contained a high-res rear projection screen. Their show is full of color and even a little sparkle.
Keyboardist and co-lead singer Lawrence Gowan along with famed vocalist Tommy Shaw have amazing vocal chemistry. This shined on “Lorelei.” Gowan offered his nearly operatic voice as he swiveled on his custom keyboard pedestal, which allowed him to project frontman energy while playing in one spot.
Original member Shaw took the vocal lead on “Crash of the Clown,” and showcased a deeper register for the band. He’s the five-decade constant in a group where the music takes center stage.
Styx has the kind of catalog where the sheer power of the songs alone courses through your veins as you listen. You don’t watch a Styx show. You experience it.
The 70s and 80s rock achieved a sort of balance: a sincerity mixed with a campy style. It’s music that’s unashamed of itself but is not tongue-in-cheek about it. Yes, “I Wanna Know What Love Is” goes hard as a power ballad. But it makes the listener feel that cry for affection. “Renegade” tells a tragic story, but with a rock-out melody. This is perhaps why the music of these renegades and jukebox heroes endures.
