You can never have a bad experience at the Hollywood Bowl with all its enchanting beauty nestled in the Hollywood Hills. Recently, I attended a few great shows there…
STAR WARS – 6/3/11
Imagine a pink floyd laser light show coupled with a live orchestra playing along to various parts of the Star wars saga, along with C3PO narrating the film. This $125/ticket show superseded my expectations by a long shot; also because we had box seats. I still recall seeing the movie as a child and still to this day have hundreds of Star Wars memorabilia back at my parents house.
PLAYBOY JAZZ FESTIVAL – 6/12/11
This was my first time and what an awesome experience it was. The main headliner was blues legend Buddy Guy who was amazing to say the least but things really picked up when he pulled out a 12 year old guitar shredder who could not only sing but play the blues like it was nothing; very inspiring!! Other highlights were Naturally 7 (an acapello group who uses their voices as instruments) and Still Black, Still Proud: An African Tribute to James Brown Featuring Pee Wee Ellis, Fred Wesley, Vusi Mahlasela, Meklit Hadero. http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117945434
MOTLEY CRUE / POISON / NY DOLLS – 6/14/11
Having been a Crue fan since I was 8 years old, it’s always amazing to see them as it takes me back to my youth. While Vince Neil can’t really hit most of the high notes anymore, he still belts it out with great energy. Mick Mars, who just won’t die as Nikki Sixx says, was a true master on his guitar with soaring pinch harmonics, whammy bar sweeps and a hard rocking sound. Nikki, who writes most of the songs always holds the rhythm locked down. Tommy Lee – need I say more? That dude rocks so hard. A highlight was watching him go upside down playing along with his techno/dj- styled beats to a wild spinning visual. He even brought a girl out from the audience, strapped her in, and took her for a wild ride upside down on the circular roller coaster drumset.
Poison, who i’ve been a fan of since 7th grade were equally great to see but a little too heavy on the guitar wanker guitar solos of CC Deville. Brett Michaels down-to-earth gracefullness fully made up for it though. Being alive after his illness last year and still touring with his best friends for 25 years made for a special night. “Every rose has its thorn” was the crowd pleaser by a long shot.
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/concert-review-motley-crue-at-202516
