Without question, Warrant was one of the biggest acts of the '80s. Thanks to an eventual change in the music scene (aka, Seattle), they got tossed aside. Though they did continue touring, for the most part, they got filed under "Whatever Became Of..."
It is easy for most to dismiss them, since they are representatives of "yesteryears genre." That is a shame, because their performance at The Galaxy, was on an equal level to anything I had seen them do before. They have became seasoned vets, thru the years, and still continue to deliver a fun, energetic set, that most bands today would have trouble competing with.
Original vocalist Jani Lane is gone, replaced by Robert Mason. But, the original lineup is otherwise now. In all honesty, I fail to believe Lane was missed, this evening. Mason fronts the band, as if he has been there since Day One. Guitarist Joey Allen is vastly underrated, demonstrating some interesting blues based guitar riffs, that adds a harder edge to
Warrant's melodic pop sound. Bassist Jerry Dixon and drummer Steven Sweet deliver a heavy rhythmic attack, while Erik Turner is proficient in his rhythm guitar playing.
They kicked their set off with Down Boys, from their debut Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinkin Rich, and covered all aspects of their discography. There was a heavy emphasis on their multi-million selling debut, however. Interesting to note, was that their hit Heaven was played in the middle of the set, rather than as a predictable encore. The crowd, which ranged from older, to quite a bit younger, and not much in between, sang along to every word. Warrant may no longer sell the quantity they once did, but who cares? When it comes to their live performances, they are among the best. The crowd left, drained, and satisfied; that says a lot about a band, current or not.
Of the opening bands, The Cauze really stood out. Featuring impressive vocals by lead guitarist/ Jeff Ellis, they have been around since 2005. Kevin Crider and Chuck West held down the fort, on bass and drums, respectively. The band was heavy, without leaning too far in that direction, and offered a short, but intense set. They obviously knew what Warrant was capable of, and made it quite clear; they had no intention as being perceived as "just another act" this evening. It is doubtful, unfortunately, that The Cauze will make much impression, in today’s music market. But, judging by the reception they got, they have earned respect. Knowing what they are capable of doing seems enough to satisfy The Cauze. It results in a band confident in their skills, and more than capable of rocking the house.
