Existing as an entity for almost 20 years, together in their current incarnation since 2003, this eye-catching bunch of misfits are an explosive and very well-observed throwback to the days when big hair, make-up, spandex and songs about having a good time ruled the roost – for me, the good old days before Nirvana and co. came along and made everything depressing.
There were two support bands tonight, Buckcherry and Bowling for Soup, and of the two I much preferred the swaggering brilliance of Buckcherry, led by mesmeric frontman Josh Todd.
Steel Panther took to the stage to the strains of Kiss’ “I Love It Loud” at around 9:10pm, and when the lights came up, singer Michael Starr was on the drum riser standing next to drummer Stix Zadinia.
Hands, cups of beer and inflatable guitars were held up in the air by the enthusiastic crowd, some of whom had come dressed as their heroes – complete with wigs and spandex – as Panther launched into “Eyes of a Panther” off their major label debut, 2009’s Feel the Steel. This was followed by “Just Like Tiger Woods,” track three on its follow-up, 2011’s Balls Out.
Early on stage banter came from lead guitarist, Satchel. “We’re stoked to be in England where people speak English!” noted the talkative musician who also praised London, calling it his “favourite city.”
Following more exuberance (“Party Like Tomorrow Is the End of the World,” “Let Me Cum In,” etc.), Satchel had his starring moment, soloing away and treating the audience to bursts of “Smoke on the Water,” “Sweet Child o’ Mine” and “Iron Man,” while backing himself up with the bass drum. “Make some f***in’ noise for me!” he bellowed upon its conclusion.
More girls came up on stage, this time to dance and show off to “17 Girls in a Row” and one of my personal favourites, “Community Property.” Unfortunately, I had to leave halfway through the song to catch my last train, which means I didn’t get to hear my other personal favourite, “Fat Girl (Thar She Blows).”
The sex references and jokes were funny – as well as being an integral part of the show – but, as I knew I’d have to leave early, I would rather have had a little less talk and a bit more music. Still, the band were on top form and I got to hear some great rock ‘n’ roll songs, which after all is what it’s really all about.
For more on Steel Panther, visit their official website.
