Review & Photos by Charlie Steffens
America, ironically formed in England by three Americans (the late Dan Peek, Dewey Bunnell, and Gerry Beckley), brought 70s magic to a most appreciative audience at one of LA’s lushest musical venues, the Saban Theatre.
With two original members — Bunnell (vocals, guitar) and Beckley (vocals, guitar, keyboards) — America started the show with “Tin Man,” bringing wild applause from the audience. “You Can Do Magic,” a huge hit from the early 80s, followed and the energy being passed from band to audience was substantial.
The moving lament “Daisy Jane” was a highpoint of the show though Beckley’s voice seemed to lack the luster that made the song an unforgettable classic. But after 44 years in the business, slight imperfections are forgivable.
Bunnell and Beckley interacted with the audience between songs, both with humor and interesting stories. Two new touring members — drummer Ryland Steen from the band Reel Big Fish and Bill Worrell on lead guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals — proved their mettle, putting their unique musical signatures on each song. As Beckley joked, “We were having comebacks before Bill was born.”
At least a half a dozen radio hits were played, but as fate would have it, “Muskrat Love” didn’t make the list. Covers of Joni Mitchell’s “Woodstock” and Gin Blossoms’ “Till I Hear It From You” two songs on the Back Pages album — were entertaining additions and met with the affectionate audience’s approval.
“I Need You” was breathtaking, deserving honorable mention. The spellbinding “Ventura Highway” was visually accentuated on the screen behind the band with imagery of surfing, classic cars, and days gone by in Southern California.
The somber “Sandman” may have evoked reflection among those older members of the audience who remember the Vietnam era. “Sister Golden Hair” brought the house to its feet, and “Horse With No Name” closed the show. America loves their fans and it shows.
Los Angeles band The Usual Suspects featuring Lisa Margaroli (vocals), David Ownby (guitar, vocals), Steve Campos (keyboards, vocals), Scott Jehlik (bass), and Fred Simon (drums), opened the show with their catchy blend of rock, rhythm and blues.
AMERICA SET LIST
Don’t Cross the River
Daisy Jane
Riverside
I Need You
Here
Ventura Highway
Woodstock
Cornwall Blank
Hollywood
Till I Hear It From You
Foolin’
The Border
Green Monkey
Woman Tonight
Only in Your Heart
California Dreamin’
Lonely People
Sandman
Sister Golden Hair
Horse With No Name
