LIVE PICS AND SHOW REVIEW: EUROPE

Europe – Invades Lawrence, Kansas

Lawrence, KS – January 27, 2016

On Wednesday January 27^th, Europe, along with Gabbie Rae and Starcrows, took the stage at the Granada Theater in Lawrence, Kasnas. Europe, who is touring in support of their War of Kings album, brought with them two supporting bands that could have easily stood on their own.

Starting off the night was Starcrows, a bluesy rock band from Kansas City. I got a new age, Black Crowes vibe from them that was definitely appealing. Their set, for me, was too short, as I truly enjoyed the sounds that were blasting from the speakers. As I looked around, I think the feeling was mutual with all that were in attendance.

Hitting the stage next was Gabbie Rae. I will tell you that when we first found out we would be covering this show, I did my research and watched many video’s, including her cover of “Rainbow in The Dark” and was impressed. Nothing could have prepared me for the moment she took the stage, accompanied by a slew of super talented musicians. The band opened up with a few riffs, then broke into “Ace of Spades” as Gabbie Rae hit the stage. As soon as she opened her mouth for the first bars, she blew the doors off the place. This young lady has a voice that was made for live performances and a stage presence to match. There is nothing recorded that can do her justice. I highly recommend catching her set while you can. This chick can rock, and she can easily stand alongside any of the greats you dare put beside her.
Finishing up what was one of the best nights in music I had been a part of was the legendary Europe. The crowd roared with approval as Europe took to the stage. The band broke in to the opening cords of the title track to their latest album War of Kings, as Joey Tempest grabbed ahold of his snow white mic stand and proceeded to put on one hell of a show. For a band that has been around as long as Europe has, they are still as fresh and on point with every aspect of their show. Mr. Tempest, ever the true show man, gave the crowd a performance they will surely remember. Europe played a mixture of great classics as well as new tracks from War of Kings. “Rock the Night” really got the audience into the show as Mr. Tempest had every one singing along and matching his vocals. Another treat for the show was a moving rendition of “Desperado”, in memory of the late great Glenn Frey. One of my favorite parts of the show was Mr. Ian Haugland’s drum solo. I was fortunate enough to speak with Ian a week before the tour kicked off and and could not have been received by a more gracious and nicer person. You can read the interview at http://rockrevoltmagazine.com/interview-ian-haugland-europe/ . Ok, so let’s be honest here folks. We were all ready for the big finally, which was, of course, “The Final Countdown”. Geico commercial aside, this is a great song and one that has held up throughout time. We’re talking about a song from 1986; I was seven years old. I don’t have to tell you that the crowd went ape shit and lost their minds as soon as those first few notes rang out.

The Granada, and those who made their way out to see this show, got their money’s worth. From Starcrows, to the insanely talented Gabbie Rae, and of course the kings of Sweden, Europe, it was a night of unbelievable rock and roll.