STYX
Yaamava Theater – Highland, CA
Sunday, September 27th, 2023
Review and Pictures: Diane Lynn
Whether you’re into their classic hits or their new tunes, Styx always ensures that you are entertained and have a great time at their shows!
I’m not really sure the exact number of times I’ve seen this amazing band, but let’s just say it’s been A LOT! My first show was (WAY) back in 1981 during the Paradise Theatre tour and one thing they are always consistent with are their energy levels: Great sound and electrifying performances. They have to be the hardest working rock band around!
About 3000 of my fellow Styx fans and I filed into Yaamava Theatre and eagerly waited for the sold-out show to begin. As we waited for the show to start, the venue was piping in tunes from classic bands like Boston, Night Ranger and Toto to name a few. Bands that take you back a bit, and it really reminded me of some great times of my younger days. The music from those times will always be rockin to me, even if they are playing it in the grocery stores now!
So here we all were, on a school night, getting to see one of our favorite bands! With drinks and snacks in hand, we made our way to our seats. There was no opener this time, which was okay with us and then the show started (just about) on time.
As the houselights went out a dark blue hue covered the stage like a thick fog. The band made their way out onto the stage under the cover of virtual darkness. The fans could sense their presence and a strong roar was heard coming from the seats. In an instant the stage lit up and the Styx began their first song of the night with “To Those” from their 2021 Crash of The Crown album. They played three songs from that album and as they made their way through the set list, they touched on about a total eight of their albums, pulling heavily from their Grand Illusion album, released on 7-7-77. Second up was “Blue Collar Man” and “Grand Illusion” and then it was thee love song of ALL love songs, the mega hit “Lady”.
The guys not only played the instruments, but they played to the crowd, as well. I love that they interact with fans while performing but never miss a beat of the song. They move from side to side, using every bit of stage that’s allowed. Their outfits are matching but different. They all take a turn in the spotlight and their smiles are endless.
Lawrence Gowen, the man behind, in front, and on top of the keyboard simply amazes you with his energy, strong vocals and charisma. Will Evankoviach on guitar and Ricky Phillips on bass stay close to stage right next to Lawrence making it entertaining to watch these three interact. A side note: I was lucky enough to see Ricky Phillips play back in 1980-81 with the Babys shortly before they parted ways.
Drummer Todd Sucherman with his sticks flying high as he keeps the beat going sits high and dead center of the stage. The booming presence of James “J.Y” Young who was dressed to the nines including his beautiful fedora was not to go unnoticed. We’ll call him the “Original”, as he has rocked the stage with Styx since the very beginning, 51 years ago! I’ll never forget hearing him sing “Miss America” live for the first time, it was electrifying!
Now, since we all have a favorite from each band we love, I’ll just go on record and say, mine is Tommy Shaw. I’ve loved him from day one and yes, my husband knows Ha! His talents are endless, he’s a guitarist, vocalist and has written some fantastic songs.
All of these amazing musicians together is what gives us one of the Great American Rock band still gracing stages today and performing at an incredibly high level.
Styx had the fans singing along and clapping to the beat of each song, it was like a DJ playing all of our favorites. The night ended with “Mr. Roboto” and their power hit “Renegade”! It’s a theatrical performance at times, a well-rehearsed and put together show, it’s much more than your average rock concert, it’s a rock SHOW!
Until the next time, thank you Styx for having me out, it’s always my pleasure!
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