Review & photos by Joe Schaeffer
Styx, Foreigner and John Waite brought their Renegades & Juke Box Heroes Tour to the Honda Center in Anaheim. The show features set lists filled with classic hits and fan favorites.
John Waite opened the show with a nine-song set that was well-received by the audience. His performance blended material from his time with Bad English, The Babys, and his solo career. Highlights included “Change,” “Missing You,” and “Every Time I Think of You.” Waite’s voice has held up exceptionally well over the years, and he closed his set with a powerful rendition of Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love.” As the opener, Waite showcased his incomparable talent. His performance was captivating, leaving the crowd wanting more.
Styx proved they’re still a powerhouse outfit. Led by Tommy Shaw and James Young, both lead guitarists, the entire band was a fireball from start to finish. They were joined by newly added bassist Terry Gowan who along with Todd Sucherman created an ample back bone to the band’s sound. Guitarist Will Evankovich also provides another vocal dynamic to the songs as well.
Their 75-minute set packed in 13 songs that spanned their extensive catalog. They opened with “The Grand Illusion” and included a mix of favorites, as well as the title track from their latest album Crash Of The Crown. The band’s performance was energetic and polished, with Lawrence Gowan’s vocals fitting perfectly into their classic tracks.
Original bassist Chuck Panozzo made a heartfelt appearance during “Lady,” and the band demonstrated why they have been a touring powerhouse, averaging nearly 100 shows a year. Styx consistently delivers high caliber shows, touring extensively year after year.
Foreigner, co-headlining with Styx, delivered a set that brought their songs to life with perfection. Vocalist Kelly Hansen and bassist Jeff Pilson, the longest-ranking members, led the band through a set that managed to captivate the audience. The hit-packed set that began with “Double Vision” and was a showcase of their enduring appeal, with a set list that spanned their extensive catalog of hits.
Alongside Kelly Hansen and bassist Jeff Pilson were keyboardist Michael Bluestein, drummer Chris Frazier, and guitarists Bruce Watson and Luis Maldonado. Founder and leader Mick Jones, though absent from the road, ensured that the band delivered each song to perfection. Hits like “I Want to Know What Love Is” resonated powerfully, and they closed their set with the classic “Hot Blooded.”
The tour is set to continue through various locations and will conclude on August 28 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The bands have also released a joint compilation album, Renegades & Juke Box Heroes, available at tour stops and retail outlets, which features four songs from each band.
The tour has received positive reviews, with fans and critics alike praising the bands for their lively performances and the nostalgic journey through their greatest hits. It’s clear that Styx, Foreigner and John Waite have all maintained their musical prowess and continue to captivate audiences with their timeless rock anthems.
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