It was a beautiful summer night in Pittsburgh. The cool, dry air was a welcomed break from the miserable heat and humidity we'd been having, and it made me wish that this show was at the outdoor stage. By the time I got to the venue, there was already a long line waiting for doors to open. The aroma of grilling meat from the tailgaters at the Pirates' game tantalized those of us waiting in line. Sports, tailgating and music - this is the 'Burgh at it's best!
Tesla may have been the headliner, but many of these people were just as eager to see their hometown guitar hero, Reb Beach. The recently re-formed Reb Beach Project played their first gig in front of their hometown fans and they didn't disappoint. Reb, bassist Tommy Bellin and drummer David Throckmorton hit the stage with tremendous energy. During their nearly hour-long set, that energy only increased as they fed off the cheers of the crowd. Besides some Reb Beach originals, their set included songs from Dokken (Tooth And Nail), Whitesnake (Slow And Easy) and Winger (Madeline, 17, Miles Away). Their singer actually sounded a good bit like Kip Winger. Had they been the only band on the bill, I could have easily walked away happy - they were just that good! If they book another gig in the area, I will certainly be there.
By the time Tesla hit the stage, the crowd had grown considerably, and was all warmed up. Tesla is one of those bands that just consistently puts on a good live show. Brian Wheat and Troy Luccketta provide a solid foundation, while Jeff Keith adds a dose of fun with his vocals and commentary between songs. Dave Rude and Frank Hannon, both amazing guitarists on their own, seem to have a sort of magic when playing together. Their set included such hits as What You Give, The Way It Is, Modern Day Cowboy, Signs, Hang Tough, Song and Emotion, Hang Tough, and Love Song. Before we knew it, the encore was over and it was time to go home - with good memories of on a fantastic show.
