It was Hot!!!! Showtime temperature was around 100 degrees! That didn’t deter the 50,000 plus GNR fans that filled the tiny historic ballpark. Our seats were close. 15 rows from the stage. Where you sit makes a big a big difference with the entire experience! We were positioned right in front of the soundboard for this show, and I was able to sneak up front to take photos. It was a basic stage, no walkways extending out to the crowd. There were huge crystal clear TV monitors on either side of the stage, and one behind the musicians. The GNR videographers did an outstanding job presenting key moments of the show to the audience.
Axel. Everybody says “Axel can’t sing anymore”. I disagree. He was able to belt out most of the songs with adequate vocals. He had a female keyboard player kind of hidden in the back that was singing along with Axel and helped him fill in the high notes. His stage presence was vintage Axel, running around and interacting with his bandmates. He looked good for his age, and was in pretty good shape.
Slash. A true guitar Legend! He still captivates the audience with his immense guitar skills. He also played with what it seemed to be his entire guitar collection. His solos are still crisp and clear! I’m a little biased, as Slash is my favorite guitar player of all time!
Duff. Still the charismatic bass player for GNR. He is a tall presence on stage and always in the pocket! His vocals were great as he was featured singer on some of the songs.
The supporting cast featured Dizzy Reed on Keys, Melissa Reese on keys and percussion, Richard Fortus on guitar, and Frank Ferrer on Drums. They all played and performed admirably!
Overall it was a great show! Probably in my top 5 of all time!
