Stage Buzz: UB40, W.A.S.P., Afrojack
UB40
Birmingham reggae giants UB40 kicked down the doors of commercially popular reggae in the States (along with Bob Marley) with “Red Red Wine, “ in the ‘80s, selling millions of records and concert tickets. Their groundbreaking soulful singer, Ali Campbell, left the band acrimoniously in 2008, and these Brummie stalwarts spent years in survival mode, both musically and financially. 2021 was a turning point when KIOKO singer Matt Doyle joined the fold, injecting new purpose into the band, buoyed by new reggae anthems “Home” and “You Don’t Call Anymore.” Although they still dabble in a few too many cover versions for hardcore purists, they’re giving the people what they want. Expect pristine sound and a 40-year hit-filled catalog Thursday, October 8, at the Auditorium Theatre. Tickets are still available. (– David Gedge)
When you’ve been consistently composing rabble-rousing metal anthems for several decades — like brainy W.A.S.P. bandleader Blackie Lawless has- it helps to set your standards impeccably high. Which, for this Staten Island-bred shock-rocker — who’s not claiming his method would work for every artist — he can’t tell you everything, but “I’m just trying to convey some human emotions,” he told IE in 2024. Expect to hear W.A.S.P. memorable chant-alongs like “Wild Child,” “Blind In Texas,” “I Wanna Be Somebody,” and “Animal (F*** Like a Beast)” Friday 10/9 at Des Plaines Theatre, Saturday at Arcada Theatre October 10. Co-founding Judas Priest guitarist band KK’s Priest opens. (– Tom Lanham)
Dutch DJ legend Afrojack became a household name in 2015 for the EDM anthem “Hey Mama” with David Guetta featuring Nicki Minaj and Bebe Rexha, and for performing at huge Chicago festivals like North Coast. His fame has continued with a reunion with David Guetta and Sia on ‘Awake Tonight’. He’s at Radius Friday, October 9 (- David Gedge)
Category: Featured, Stage Buzz
