Photos by Laura Fox (LLFoxphotos); Review by Laura Fox and Dave Fox
Poison is one of those bands I always liked, but never really considered one of my faves. Frankly, I couldn’t figure out what set them apart. Then I saw them live (for first time) at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, on August 16, 2022, and now I get it. These guys love what they do and they have a blast doing it.
Unlike a lot of the bands currently touring, the lineup for The Stadium Tour consists of the original band members. Frontman Bret Michaels was all smiles and showmanship, eating up the fan love and sending it back to the crowd. Guitarist CC DeVille’s stage presence was commanding (and his hair was gorgeous) as his fingers flew over the frets. His solo was absolutely killer. Drummer Rikki Rockett’s solo was also amazing, and I loved watching him casually twirl his sticks like it was no big thing during the other songs. Bobby Dall was the most chill member of the group, playing the part of the cool bass player perfectly. Unfortunately, keyboardist Will Doughty was hidden in the shadows, which is why the production score below was docked.
Poison’s 9-song set was 100% fun. They came out strong with “Look What the Cat Dragged In” and didn’t slow down until near the end of the set. After “Every Rose Has its Thorn,” they ramped it back up with “Nothin’ but a Good Time” which had the whole crowd singing, dancing, and feeling good. Whatever drama has occurred over the years, these OG hair-band glam rockers have set it aside to create a kick-ass experience for their adoring fans, old and new.
Here’s our report card for Poison:
If you don’t have tickets to The Stadium Tour yet, what are you waiting for? Here’s your link: