« Short But Sweet—Bad Company at Casino Rama, August 3rd, 2013 »
Anne-Marie KleinBad Company, celebrating 40 years together as a band, brought their show to Casino Rama last night. I am at best a casual fan of their music, although I have always admired Paul Rodger’s incredible vocal talent.
Seven years ago, when he took to the road with the remaining members of Queen, I watched him take Freddie Mercury’s place as their frontman. The Toronto show at the Air Canada Centre was the only North American sell-out date, and it was undoubtedly challenging for him to step into the shoes of a singer often referred to as the best showman to ever grace a rock and roll stage. I remember watching him that night and thinking how confident and powerful he sounded; he wasn’t Freddie and it wasn’t 1977, but he wasn’t trying to be and that impressed me greatly.
Last night, hearing him perform songs from his own catalogue, I was even more in awe of his vocal prowess. His style was relaxed yet strong, and he evoked a memory of Freddie only in that he initiated and welcomed the audience sing-alongs in much the same warm, inviting manner. The entire band sounded great together, and I enjoyed watching Rodgers at the harmonica, and at the piano and guitar as well.
The Rama stage is simple and the venue is small, two factors that often make for an intimate experience: the light show was pared-down, enhanced by a bit of dry ice during one number and a few basic pyrotechnics at the end. It was a rock show of modest proportions, yet highly enjoyable for its setlist that included all the big hits. I was hoping for the inclusion of ‘Alright Now’ from Rodgers’ days with Free, but could forgive the omission when he closed the show with ‘Seagull’. My only regret, which was by no means minor when you consider that the round-trip to Casino Rama from Toronto is close to four hours long, was that the entire performance lasted just one hour and fifteen minutes. Sweet to the ears, but far too short.
Reader Comments (8)
Bad Company put on an amazing show. I only live 30 minutes away from Rama, so this venue is basically "in my back yard". The only complaint that I have, is that the show was far too short. The time that they did play, was outstanding. This was my first time seeing Bad Company perform at Rama. I plan on seeing them again!! This band is outstanding live....Paul Rogers vocals are powerful, and sound fantastic live. I would rate this concert 5/5.
I totally agree with every word you said about their show, Wayne. I'm not sure I would make the drive again for such a short show, though, but would love to see them closer to Toronto. Paul Rodgers still has outstanding power and range in his voice.
The consensus seems to be GREAT SHOW BUT MUCH TOO SHORT!! The band and especially PR were superb and I was so disappointed that their time on stage was so brief. I was so looking forward to this concert and left feeling deflated, especially since I have been spoiled by seeing 2 to 2 1/2 hour concerts by talented bands like Bad Company.
C.A., it's making me wonder whether I should bother going to Rama anymore. I think only if it's another bucket list item.
Anne-Marie, don't give up on Rama, this was an unusually short concert for this venue. Most of the time the shows are longer and relatively inexpensive in comparison to toronto concerts. I would have gladly spent more money to see Bad Company for longer at a stadium-type setting.
Anne-Marie, don't give up on Rama, this was an unusually short concert for this venue. Most of the time the shows are longer and relatively inexpensive in comparison to toronto concerts. I would have gladly spent more money to see Bad Company for longer at a stadium-type setting.
I have to say, C.A., that we saw Styx and Gordon Lightfoot there, and while I understood that health may have been a major factor in Lightfoot's case, I do remember Styx being a full-length show. I will keep an open mind. Thanks for posting that.
Does anyone know where I can purchase a 2013 autographed tour program as they were all sold out at the concert and I can't seem to find one anywhere else?