They began their set with “Summer Nights,” as well as the infectious “I Like the Sound of That.” “Let’s go,” they said, and ended the song a cappella featuring their soaring harmonies.
“New York. What’s up? It’s great to be back. Lord have mercy,” lead singer Gary LeVox said. They noted that they brought some honky tonk stuff from Nashville, which includes an instrument that is played with three fingers, and they immediately broke into the upbeat “Banjo,” which ironically enough featured banjo accompaniment.
Jay DeMarcus played piano on the ballad “Come Wake Me Up,” which featured LeVox’s dynamic vocal range, as the couples in the crowd were slow-dancing and swaying from side to side.
During “I Melt,” orange lights dimmed from the stage, and LeVox showed his falsetto, and they continued with “I Won’t Let Go,” prior to getting the party started with “Life Is a Highway,” where Joe Don Rooney delivered a killer electric guitar solo.
“Everybody feel like being crazy New York?” LeVox asked, and they went on to sing the catchy “Why Wait.”
LeVox shared that Rascal Flatts has been touring for 16 years, and they consider Jones Beach, NY, their second home. They expressed their gratitude for the crowd showing up and being here. LeVox noted that each time he turns on the television, he sees atrocities each day, yet America is still the greatest country in the entire world. That statement was well-received, and the crowd was chanting “U.S.A., U.S.A.” to him. He even jokingly announced his desires to run for president.
Equally beautiful were their renditions of “Bless the Broken Road” and the up-tempo “Fast Cars and Freedom.”
The Verdict
Overall, Rascal Flatts were able to put on a high-octane performance at the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater on Long Island. Their opening acts Kelsea Ballerini and Chris Lane were also impressive.
