Written by: Charles Rosenberg
Photos by: Allison Murphy

George Thorogood throughly destroyed any doubt regarding his legacy Saturday evening at The Capitol Theatre. He has proven over four decades that his maniacal dexterity with a guitar belongs with the best. Showing no signs of slowing down, George Thorogood and The Destroyers let loose a barrage of lightning licks and tumultuous riffs.

Mr. Thorogood is a generous band leader, sharing the spotlight with long-term bandmates. Buddy Leach on sax and Jim Suhler on guitar traded runs throughout the night, highlighting and accentuating top tier talent. It is fantastically encouraging to experience such a well preserved icon, making what is palpable virtuosity appear so easy. Quicksilver leads that economize notes are anything but the usual shredded blur.

Vocals as brash as ever, the band tore through "Rock Party," "I Drink Alone," and "Who Do You Love?" The energy never abated with a vibrant backdrop of simple visuals. More to the point, flames, liquor bottles, and gambling accoutrements reinforced what was lyrically conveyed. Profound? No. Galvanizing? Yes! The crowd was belting out every song with conviction, including "Night Time," "One Bourbon, One Scotch, and One Beer," and of course, "Bad To The Bone."

However, creativity runs deep with Mr. Thorogood's own spin on "Seventh Son," jamming and wailing. He runs, romps, stalks, and invites everyone to party with him. It is a privilege to see blues rock taken to the heights this night, and The Cap rocked to his chops — where taste and maturity illustrate a talent of control — mastering a smooth approach that not only teases but engrosses.

It is a pleasure to know that giants still walk amongst us. George Thorogood and The Destroyers have earned the imprimatur of greatness and under no circumstances should they be missed. The Capitol There's history is now that much richer.

 

 

The Capitol Theatre Photo Gallery

Photos by: Allison Murphy

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