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Tesla's music is still timeless
IN THE RAFTERS:
Jeff Keith hits another high note as Tesla performs
in Salt Lake City. / Photos by Ben Hansen
By Ben Hansen
October 6, 2008 | SALT LAKE CITY -- Twenty years ago,
before many of you were born, I began listening to a
new band out of California that sounded different than
the rest of the scene at the time -- metal with a distinguishable
bluesy-feel that brought more to the music than the
rest of the par at the time. Years later, the band Tesla
is still one of a kind, and delivered an exceptional
performance at the Depot club.
Wednesday was the first date of Tesla's new tour in
support of the band's yet-to-be released album Forever
More. The audience in SLC was given a preview of
what was to come, mixed with some of the band's best
works that have assured its status as multi-platinum
throughout the years.
As the lights went out, the band went straight into
the title track from the new album, followed by what
may be its best new song, I Wanna Live. The
audience began to come alive, immediately immersed in
and enjoying the new music.
Quickly the set list moved back to hit after hit,
with the band going straight into its first hit, Modern
Day Cowboy from the band's first album Mechanical
Resonance. Many other classics followed, including
Hang Tough, Heaven's Trail and The Way
It Is.
Lead singer Jeff Keith sounded sensational, hitting
high note after high note with ease throughout the night.
He was everywhere on the stage throughout the night,
seeming to sing to each member of the audience at any
given point. Jeff masterfully worked the crowd as usual,
getting the audience to sing along, word for word to
the band's mega hits Love Song and the band's
cover of Five Man Electrical Band's 1970 song Signs.
Guitarist and primary songwriter Frank Hannon was
also razor sharp throughout the night, taking on all
backing vocals with ease. He also seemed to empty the
entire guitar arsenal, making lightning fast solos on
double-necked guitars blend seamlessly with bluesy acoustic
solos.
Tesla's show was everything one would hope it would
be -- great hits, five noteworthy new tracks, and a
solid stage performance that kept the audience pumped
for 90 minutes. The new album is definitely worth picking
up tomorrow when it comes out-- get it before it sells
out at your store.
For more information on Tesla, or to check out the
song I Wanna Live off the new album, be sure
check out the band's
Web site.
Tesla kicks it into gear. / Photo by Ben Hansen
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