Word and Live Photos: Myglobalmind and Screaming Digital Productions
Renowned rock titans, Night Ranger, commemorated their four-decade journey in the music industry with the release of the milestone album “40 Years and a Night with Contemporary Youth Orchestra” last year. This followed a pattern established in 2017 with another dynamic live release. Given their enduring legacy, it is only fitting that the band persists in crafting music and celebrating its rightful standing in the annals of rock history. Far from resting on their laurels, Night Ranger has astounded audiences with the release of four studio albums since 2011, a testament to their unwavering commitment to innovation and musical evolution.
The vocal prowess of frontman Jack Blades remains as formidable as ever, complemented by the enduring excellence of the entire lineup. Guitar virtuoso Brad Gillis, drummer and vocalist Kelly Keagy, keyboard maestro Eric Levy, and the prolific guitarist Keri Kelli, whose extensive contributions to various renowned bands defy easy enumeration, all play pivotal roles in Night Ranger’s sonic tapestry.
Our recent coverage of Night Ranger marked a return after a considerable hiatus. The last time we captured their live performance was back in 2014 at BB Kings in NYC—a show worth revisiting for those interested in their electrifying stage presence. Here
An interesting note is Night Ranger’s absence from Huntsville, AL, since the 1980s, possibly during the Metal Health tour on December 23, 1983. Witnessing their return after so many years was indeed a delightful experience.
Despite a competing country star performing simultaneously at the arena, the crowd at Mars was impressively robust. Night Ranger wasted no time, launching into their set with the anthemic “(You Can Still) Rock in America,” exuding the inexhaustible energy of Jack Blades, who, despite nearing the age of 70, commands the stage with undiminished vigor. Brad Gillis’s virtuosic guitar skills captivated the audience, setting an electrifying tone. Following “Seven Wishes,” they treated us to a surprise with a Damn Yankees cut, “Coming of Age.” Noteworthy covers included renditions of “School’s Out” and the epic “Crazy Train” from Brad’s tenure with Ozzy’s band some four decades ago—an exceptional guitar solo added to the brilliance.
Another standout moment was the live rendition of the Damn Yankees classic “High Enough.” The chorus, replete with melody and bliss, resonated profoundly with the audience. Classics like “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me” and the timeless “Sister Christian” followed, serving as a poignant reminder of Kelly’s triumphant return after overcoming health challenges a few years ago.
In the spirit of avoiding redundancy, it’s worth acknowledging that legacy bands are finite. Consider securing tickets and introducing the younger generation to these musical maestros—allow them to experience the magic of classic music. Night Ranger, with over four decades of rock mastery, continues to affirm that the spirit of rock can still thrive in America!
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