HALESTORM, LITA FORD and DOROTHY – Utica NY

It was a hot night of rock ‘n roll, as we caught the last night of the Halestorm, Lita Ford and Dorothy tour in Utica NY! It was a night of face melting guitars, heart pounding drum solos, led by three powerful front women, to give one memorable night!

Up first was up and coming artist – DOROTHY! Dorothy Martin has soulful vocals that is backed by a solid rock band. They have a southern blues rock feel that will have you up on your feet in no time. Live, they have a fun playful stage presence.

Since the show was just days before Halloween, they came out in costume for the occasion for a unique show. DOROTHY is out in support of their album, “rockisdead.”

Next up was the Queen of Rock, Ms Lita Ford, with the 1984 classic rock anthem, “Got to Let It Go.” Lita’s vocals were spot on and strong as ever! For the most part, it sounded like it does on the albums, just with that live energy edge that kicks it up another level. Her guitar solos were impeccable, and she was backed by equally talented musicians – Patrick Kennison (guitar), Marty O’Brien (bass) and Bobby Rock (drums). I have to say, I loved watching Bobby Rock’s drum solo. His kit tips back, but is held together with chains.

Lita would invite Lzzy Hale to join her on the stage to do a cool rendition of The Runaway’s tune “Cherry Bomb” (Lita was the lead guitarist for The Runaways) and the duet on “Close My Eyes Forever” in which Lita originally did with Ozzy Osbourne in the 1990’s.

It was sad to see Lita’s set end. The only thing that made it better was knowing Halestorm was around the corner. Lita Ford is out on tour in support of her latest album, “Time Capsule.” Lita continued to tour around the US until the end of the year.

It wasn’t long before the lights went down and it was time for Halestorm. I single spotlight followed vocalist Lzzy Hale to the front of the stage. She starting their set with a vocal solo, doing the first part of “I Get Off.” Slowly, the band joined her on stage, and when the song got to the refrain, the full stage lights kicked on, the band rang in on que and their set was on even more on fire! It was an impressive way to kick off their performance.

At one point during the night, drummer Arejay Hale took over as he called out a fan, “Nick” as he had a banner challenging Arejay to a drum off! His challenge was heard and accepted as Arejay pulled him up on the stage. Bobby Rock (Lita Ford’s drummer) would join in on the battle and before long, the rest of Lita’s and Dorothy’s band members would come out, dressed in crazy outfits for free-for-all drum solo! It truly was fun to watch and what a great way to end a tour.

Halestorm is out in support of their latest EP, “Into the Wild Life.” Halestorm will take a break now, but will be ringing in the new year in Christchurch, New Zealand and will tour New Zealand/Australia in Jan 2017.