Tommy hitches a ride from MySpace to Boston

If you closed your eyes and didn't notice the six musicians standing on the DreamMakers Theater stage Saturday night, you'd think that the Kewadin Casino staff was hosting a retro party spinning nothing but Boston records.

A pretty amazing feat considering that multi-instrumentalist, technical wizard and founding member Tom Scholz is the only remaining original musician in the lineup.

From the opening bars of Rock and Roll Band, it was clear the audience was about to get what they paid for.

Hit after Boston hit streamed forth, including Foreplay/Long Time, Hitch a Ride, Smokin', Don't Look Back, Walk On, Amanda and Peace of Mind.

But it wasn't until mid-set when the familiar melodic opening of More Than a Feeling began that the crowd jumped to its feet, nearly drowning out the band singing along.

To Be A Man from Boston's 1986 release Third Stage was dedicated to singer Brad Delp who tragically passed away last year.

Stepping in to share lead vocals were former Stryper front man Michael Sweet and Home Depot employee Tommy DeCarlo, who has his MySpace page to thank for his new-found fame.

Both Sweet and DeCarlo delivered spectacular vocal performances that were almost eerie at times.

And while Boston may not be the most visually dynamic band to grace the DreamMakers Theater stage, what was lacking in showmanship was made up for by each member's undeniable talent and genuine love of the material.

Saturday night's stop in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan was the fourth in a long tour that sees Boston traveling through to the end of August.

By Slackhopper
SooToday.com
Monday, June 16, 2008