They all took their positions with instruments in hand and started playing the intro to "Roll Me Away." They were all standing stiffly statue-esque while playing and I was still concerned for the show ahead. But then Bob grabbed the mic with both hands and started delivering that classic Seger sound. The vocals were dead on and perfectly preserved like a record from the '70s and the crowd poured in behind him singing along with every word. This classic rock experience had only just begun.
As the next few songs were played, the front line of the band left their positions and started exploring the stage. Bob Seger took the mic and worked from corner to corner delivering to everyone in the crowd. His fists began pumping and his legs started stomping to the drum beat. The rest of the band loosened up as well as they were fueled by a stadium full of energetic fans. Shortly into the show, Bob strapped on a guitar and a headband to keep the sweat back while the group's energy continued to rise. The band's continuity was pretty apparent as the show progressed, and Seger later stated that a few of the guys in the band had been with him for more than 40 years. Quite impressive.
The performance given that night was as expected, but what I enjoyed most about this concert was the instrumentals. The Silver Bullet Band featured so much individual talent that each of them could have been the star of the show. The lead guitarist and the lead sax guy took turns highlighting the sound of each song. The band also featured a Michigan-based quartet of horns that added a great presence to the stage.
Additionally, the backup singers in the band not only provided their vocal talent, they also played just about any percussion instrument you could imagine. And let's not forget about the piano play that really pulled everything together as it helped set the pace. To hear all those instruments coming together behind the legendary and unique voice of Bob Seger really made this concert stand out above most I've seen.
Throughout the duration of the show, the band played nearly every song you would expect to hear. They even added a new song that will be coming out on the next album, as well as several songs that were a part of some of his earlier releases.
Article comments
1 - Ron Townsend (real name)
Bob has always been one of my favoriets, I'm 59 and still rockin strong. I remember seeing Bob in Mobile Ala. I think it was and it's was one the best shows I've ever seen. I'm sure there just as good now as ever.Old rockers don't die they just go rock and roll heaven.
2 - Don
You really need to go get a copy of "Live Bullet". It's a great snap shot of Seger & the Silver Bullet Band hitting their stride. They were just starting to achieve the mainstream success that they would maintain for years to come, and it shows just how good a band was behind him. They were a force to be reckoned with.
3 - Jamen Elbert
Thanks Don. I was thinking about purchasing that album beforehand, and now I think it is a definite buy in the near future.