First up on this short, but very sweet bill was Midnight Chaser. These guys embody the spirit of ‘70s hard rock and NWOBHM so well, but they carry a American sense of swagger and badassery. The band took used the forty minute set to debut a whole new arsenal of tracks and they made sure to throw in a few older favorites as well. First among these was their classic head banger ‘Swords for Hire’, but the new stuff quickly followed.
Unfortunately new vocalist Josh Rodstein wasn’t nearly as upfront in the mix as I would have liked, but he still easily impressed with his clear, full throated and melodic singing. Fans of Midnight Chaser’s debut record, Rough And Tough, that may be worried about the change in the lineup can rest easy- the new stuff is the same Midnight Chaser you know and love, but with a couple new friendly faces onboard. The eternal mastermind behind the Chaser, guitarist Stephen Lauck, was eager to crack jokes with Rodstein as the set went on, and his big goofy smile was utterly infectious. These guys were all having a great time, and their joy and mirth easily spread to the hundred or so fans in attendance. A fantastic opening set in every regard.
01. Lion’s Choice 05:16
02. Rollin’ 02:42
03. White Denim 04:35
04. Juicer 03:09
05. Cry Wolf 04:45
06. Down For Whatever 04:27
07. Mother Mary 03:50
08. The Hunt 06:06
Zack Ohren – Guitars (lead), Bass
Brandon Thomas – Drums
Stephen Lauck – Guitars
Scott Shapiro – Vocals