|
To see any concert is an event,
to see a great band is a bonus, but to see a legendary super
group perform in their hometown is certainly material for
one of the best concerts anyone could hope for. Even more
so when the band are top session musicians appearing in hit
albums such as Michael Jackson’s Thriller and who together
form the world class act known as Toto with many worldwide
hits such as Rosanna, Africa, and Hold the Line.
We were not to be disappointed.
After a leisurely diner at the concert venue “The Cannon Theatre
Club” located in Agoura Hills in Los Angeles, which by the
way is a middle sized western style club, the band got ready
to go on stage.
Their introduction was amazing
- a medley of songs from their debut album “Toto” and from
their second album “Turn Back”, to include a completely updated
version Girl Goodbye with African style drums, Goodbye Elenore,
and an amazing performance of the instrumental Child's Anthem.
The reaction of the crowd was
just amazing, and like myself, everyone seemed astounded at
how good these guys are.
Every song sounded perfect and
was charged with energy and emotion, you could tell the band
was having a good time and it showed in their performance.
The audience rose to their feet
when Toto played their most famous hits and the ambience in
the club was intense. You could sense the enjoyment the music
was transmitting to the audience.
All the members of Toto are amazing
musicians, Bobby Kimball’s vocal range and style, Steve Lukather’s
out of this world guitar solos, he even walked over the tables
whist playing much to the audiences delight, David Paich’s
ability on the keyboards are outstanding and can produce both
excellent solos and lush sounds to suit the mood of each song.
Simon Philips never missed a beat and Mike Porcaro can sure
punch out those basslines. A special mention also for Tony
Spinner on backup guitar who did an incredible job on “Stop
Loving You”.
A special mention was made for
the late Jeff Porcaro and the recently deceased George Harrison
when playing “When my Guitar Gently Weeps” from their new
“Through the Looking Glass” album. Steve Lukather said they
wouldn’t be here playing music if it weren’t for George Harrison’s
influence.
For the encore they played “Home
of the Brave” from my own personal favourite album “The Seventh
One” which David Paich dedicated to world peace.
After the concert, by very special
request we were allowed into the after show party. At the
party which was mainly attended by those close to the band
members, I was fortunate to meet and chat to Mike Porcaro,
Steve Lukather, & Simon Philips, who very kindly signed
a copy of their latest album.
A concert never to be forgotten.
Text and Photos by E H Slade
|
