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Firehouse
Banana Joe’s
Pittsburgh, PA
3/1/2001
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In
support of their latest release O2 (Spitfire), Firehouse
performed one of a few scattered shows at Banana Joe’s in Pittsburgh,
PA, kicking their set off with “Jumpin’,” the opening track from the
new album. Keeping in mind
that the band is known for hitting with ballads, it was great to hear them
continue through the set with other up-tempo tracks like “Reach for the
Sky” and “Take it Off,” another track from the new album. After
having such extensive interview coverage with the band surrounding their
latest release, TPRS.com is finding it tough to say much more. But
one thing is for sure, this was one of the most enjoyable and lively
performances we have ever seen from the band.
 It has been a few years since Firehouse has done a club tour in the states,
since they mostly stick to larger outdoor festival performances these days; and
while they always find time to meet each and every one of their fans following
any performance, the response from the crowd made it apparent that it was also a
great treat to see them in such a small venue.
What
was even more apparent was the new chemistry between the band, now that CJ Snare
(vocals), Bill Leverty (guitar), and Michael Foster (drums), have been joined by
newcomer Bruce Waibel. Waibel had his
opportunity to address the audience and showcase his talents during a bass solo, which added to
the expected guitar and drum solos.
After hearing from Leverty that, “It had been many years behind the scenes of
musical difference and personal life differences" when they were working
with their former bass player Perry Richardson, it was no surprise that the
band seemed to be enjoying themselves more with the new line-up in place.
 In
addition to bringing the band closer together during their show, the size of the
venue also made for a smaller stage show. That was most apparent when the
band performed “When I
Look into Your Eyes,” with a soft guitar introduction from Bill Leverty
instead of the usual keyboard introduction.
As
expected, the band performed several tracks off of their first and most
popular album, including “Don’t Treat Me Bad,” “All She Wrote,”
and "Love of a Lifetime,” which has found its way into many wedding song
lists.
Disappointingly, there was no room left for
songs from their
last studio album Category 5, though they did fit in a few more from the
new album including “The Dark” and
“Call of the Night,” and other favorites from their second and
third releases, namely "Hold Your Fire" and "I Live my Life for
You."
Be sure to read our coverage of the line-up changes, new label, and new release,
in our interview with
guitarist Bill Leverty.
For
the latest on Firehouse visit www.firehousemusic.com. |
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