Styx shared the stage with such rock musical acts as Tesla and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts.
They kicked off their set with the scorching “Gone Gone Gone,” and they immediately broke into “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)” and “The Grand Illusion.” Tommy Shaw proved that he only gets better with age and experience on the lead guitar. Equally superb were “Miss America” and “Too Much Time on My Hands ,” and the group soared as a whole on the rock ballad “Lady.”
“Rockin’ the Paradise” was one of the favorites from the first half of the show, and it was followed by “Radio Silence.” Chuck Panozzo proved that he was all about the bass on “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man),” where he nailed it. They closed with “Come Sail Away,” which was well-received.
Just when one thought that their show could not get any better, they returned for their encore, which featured their smash hit single “Mr. Roboto,” which is this journalist’s personal favorite song in the Styx catalog, as fans chanted “Domo arigato” back to them, which means “thank you” in Japanese. Styx concluded with a powerhouse version of “Renegade” that earned them a lengthy standing ovation from the Long Island crowd.
The Verdict
Overall, the dynamic ’70s progressive rock group Styx captivated the Northwell Health Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh. They accomplished that thanks to their fantastic light show, detailed harmonies and intricate guitar work. Styx belted out their classics with passion and charisma, and they demonstrated exceptional musicianship. Their live set garnered an A rating.
To learn more about Styx and their music, check out their official website.
