Review & Photos by Joe Schaeffer
The historic Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills reverberated with the electrifying sounds of Mr. Big. The iconic rock band, known for their fusion of melodic hooks and technical prowess, delivered a memorable performance that left fans both nostalgic and exhilarated.
Mr. Big, the iconic US rock band, embarked on their Big Finish Tour and are celebrating nearly 40 years of making records. The tour kicked off in Japan last July and took them across Asia, East Coast US and South America. They are currently back in the US for more dates before heading into Europe and the UK into the summer.
During this swansong tour, Mr. Big is performing their breakthrough 1991 album Lean Into It in its entirety, along with other tracks from their distinguished career.
The setlist this evening was a trip down memory lane. From the opening riff of “Addicted to That Rush” to the soulful ballad “Just Take My Heart,” the band showcased their timeless sound. The electric drill-infused anthem “Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy” had the crowd on their feet, while the bluesy groove of “Colorado Bulldog” resonated through the venue.
The chemistry between the band members was unmistakable. Billy Sheehan’s thunderous bass lines, Paul Gilbert’s lightning-fast guitar solos, and Nick D’Virgilio’s precise drumming created a sonic tapestry that enveloped the audience. Eric Martin’s vocals soared effortlessly, capturing the essence of Mr. Big’s signature sound.
Mr. Big didn’t shy away from surprises. Their cover of Cat Stevens’ “Wild World” was a heartfelt tribute, and the crowd joined in to sing every word. The instrumental switch during “Good Lovin’” showcased the band’s versatility, with Martin on bass, Sheehan on vocals, Gilbert on drums, and D’Virgilio on guitar. And when they launched into The Who’s classic “Baba O’Riley,” the energy in the room reached a fever pitch.
The Saban’s intimate setting allowed fans to connect with the band up close. The venue’s acoustics were spot-on, ensuring that every note resonated beautifully. The crowd’s enthusiasm was infectious, and Mr. Big reciprocated with their high-octane performance.
Whether you grew up listening to their hits or discovered them recently, this show was a testament to their enduring legacy. As the final chords echoed through the venue, it was clear that Mr. Big had left an indelible mark on the music scene.
