REO Speedwagon, a band that’s been putting out great music for over 45 years, clearly intends to “Keep Pushing On.” That much was obvious as they put on a hard-rocking set at Ruoff Mortgage Music Center in Noblesville, Indiana Friday night.
The five-piece band, originally from Champaign, Illinois, played hit after hit to the enthusiastic audience. The 13-song set consisted of songs that spanned their entire career and included romantic songs such as “Can’t Fight this Feeling” and rockers such as “Ridin’ the Storm Out.”
Lead singer Kevin Cronin, despite recently turning 70 years old, had an abundance of energy throughout the set, rapid-firing picks at the audience and generally having a good time on stage. Bassist Bruce Hall and lead guitarist Dave Amato played passionately, as well. Cronin kept the crowd entertained between songs by relaying bits of history about the band, including the fact that keyboardist Neal Doughty had been with the band since 1967. What he didn’t mention is that most of the other band members had been with the band for long time, as well. In fact, the “newbies” to the band, Dave Amato and Bryan Hitt (drums, percussion), joined in 1989.
The band’s encore songs, “Keep on Loving You” and “Roll with the Changes,” were fitting selections for a group that has kept itself in touch with its fans and stayed sharp for nearly 50 years. As they continue on their co-headling“Live and UnZoomed” tour with STYX with support from Loverboy, I’m sure the love and loyalty will continue.
For more tour dates, check here: http://reospeedwagon.com/tour/