Extreme is back in the UK on tour with Dan Reed Network, and it’s a tour you certainly didn’t want to miss.
Dan Reed Network may have been the support band tonight, but they played like headliners. Dan Reed took over the stage tonight completely owning it with his dancing and charm. With such a big personality is it any wonder that he has always been popular with fans and through his funk-inspired music has always had a large following. Tonight he put on a show that was captivating to watch. Playing a set of ever-popular tracks such as “Under My Skin”, “Rainbow Child” and “Ritual”, the crowd was dancing and singing along. The wonderful thing about watching Dan Reed is seeing him show his band the respect they deserve by allowing them to take the spotlight while he steps back. He did this numerous times with guitarist Brion James and bassist, Melvin Brannon Jr. Dan Reed Network are a band who are as energetic as when they first formed and showed no signs of slowing down anytime soon. With promises of touring next year, there is a lot more to see from these guys.
Now that the sold-out venue was full, it was time for Extreme! Opening with “It’s a (Monster)”, the band stormed the stage. This crowd was beyond ready to see this band live. Gary Cherone took over the stage with his high energy, jumping and dancing all over the stage, and the whole band definitely got this crowd going by playing “L’il Jack Horner” and “Get The Funk Out” which are huge songs for so early on in the night. Cherone was clearly impressed with the turnout tonight and who wouldn’t be with a sold-out venue!
As the night went on, Extreme treated the fans to a more acoustic style set of some of their older tracks. In order to include the whole band, a small drum kit was set up at the front of the stage, so all four members were playing together. During this mini-set, they played “Tragic Comic”, as well as “Whole Hearted”. This was set up for Nuno Battencourt‘s solo. Spending some time with the crowd and talking to them in such an appreciative way which really let the crowd feel a part of the evening. Nuno’s solo was played on an acoustic guitar and was very much appreciated by the crowd tonight. Another solo that was well appreciated was that of drummer Kevin Figueiredo. This was a solo that was played early in the night but was backed by Nuno on his own little mini kit!. Both solo’s tonight was truly fantastic to hear and enjoyed by all. They showcased the true talent of this band and served as a reminder as to why they have managed to be so successful after so many years. Bands are more than just their frontmen, and these types of solos allow the other members have their moment in the spotlight. Not that Extreme play in a way where Cherone hogs the spotlight mind you, this is a frontman who gives time to his band mates.
The chemistry on stage tonight was truly wonderful to witness between the four members on stage. The crowd participation initiated by Cherone was just one more reason as to why this band are so good to see live. The entire performance given tonight was fantastic to witness, and it was clear to see that this is a band who love to play live for their fans.
The band played through an array of their back catalogue with tracks such as “Kid Ego”, “Take Us Alive” and “Decadence Dance”. This set them up for their encore which consisted of “More Than Words”, “Warheads” and “Peacemaker Die”. Closing on a fantastic rendition of “We Are The Champions” to end a great Saturday night out for these fans.
Words: Emmie Ellis
Images: John Hayhurst, snapagig.com
