Classic Rock 'n Roll Served Up to Perfection Photo by: Monica Mehes copyright (c) 2012 George Thorogood & The Destroyers rolled into town and proceeded to deliver a frenzied performance in front of an SOEC crowd that was definitely in the mood to party. The band, with Thorogood up front and driving the whole thing, did it the old fashioned way with maximum effort and commitment from each and every band member through each and every one of the now classic songs that he has used to earn his dedicated following. All the big hits were played; “One Bourbon, One Scotch, and One Beer,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Move It On Over,” “I Drink Alone,” “Seventh Son,” and of course “Bad To The Bone.” And with Jeff Simon working both the drum peddle and the metal, and Billy Blough laying down bass lines that combined with the drums created rock solid while yet at times perfectly greasy grooves, they left no chance for Thorogood or the audience to even think about anything else. Buddy Leach belted out his sax parts with a ferocity that matched the maniacal frontman as collectively they steamrolled through their set. The stage itself was perfectly matched to the band and the mood. Clean and functional rather than overblown. Enough lights to let you know you were at a concert, but not so much that you couldn’t easily image you were in a big ass bar somewhere on your way to a night that will leave you hurting in the morning but glad you came. The arena was configured so that the floor section was for those who wished to stand or lean up against the tall tables situated throughout the area. This created a very bar or road house like atmosphere, which fit in beautifully with Thorogood’s brand of rock; understated and performed at full throttle all night long. Moving across the stage like a man on a mission, Thorogood demanded a boisterous response from his fans by means of giving much more than they could possibly give back. He got the response. This was classic rock at its very best. In an era where it is seldom seen, George Thorogood & The Destroyers played their butts off as they wound through a set list where everyone there connected with every song. One of the very best shows this reviewer has seen so far this year.