Foreigner…. Long Live Pure Bred Rock Legends
The revival of the die hard rockers ..from the first chord. What a banger show!
By Tarryne Rautenbach
Published Thursday, 13 October 2022 09:34
Foreigner, truly gifted musicians, and masters of their craft were adamant about maintaining a certain vibe through their show at Sunbeat Arena in Pretoria. Kelly Hansen and his band mates ran a super tight set list that was slick, energetic and on point. I have seen many concerts in my lifetime, but honestly, this was one the most impeccable concerts I have seen. They got the punch, power, stamina and are undeniably just super awesome. The crowd cheered and shouted from start to finish, dancing in their seats and some even pulled out their air guitars.
Foreigner have been performing since 1977 and are still rocking out 45 years later. Their music is still as relevant now, as was it was back then. However, it does take a team effort to pull off such an incredible show and brilliant sound. High five to the sound engineers and crew that delivered such an epic performance. Half measures are unacceptable.
I remember growing up with their music, albeit I was only a child. My parents are true bread rock' n rollers. They would spin “4” and Agent Provocateur on the turntable on a Friday night for a couple of hours. I recall watching Foreigners music videos in the early 80’s ‘that I recorded on Betamax video tape from Pop Shop (I still have those tapes). A real privilege to see them perform live in their mature years and take a trip of memory lane.
Although the band has changed members over the years their stage presence is incredibly energetic. Beautiful human beings that have immense passion and genuine commitment to their performance and their band.
They performed all the favourites hits that we have all rocked out to: Double Vision, Head Games, Cold as Ice, Waiting for Girl Like You, Dirty White Boy, Feels like The First Time, Juke Box Heroes, Hot Blooded.
St Johns choir were invited to perform on stage During “I Want To Know What Love Is”, there was an unbelievable feeling of unity in the room as Kelly encouraged everyone to put their arms around the person next to them and feel the love. The love you would feel it inside.
However the night was not over after the last song ‘Hot Blooded’ as the patrons did not want to end it there. The magic continued into the basement parking area – cars blasted some more Foreigner tunes while waiting in the ques to get home.
If you want to read more about Foreigner and their journey, I recommend you watch their documentaries. Go listen to their albums. Go experience Foreigner again where you may just find yourself.
Pull out those invaluable treasure troves. Some days you hear the music, other days you will hear the words.
Its Urgent! Rock out!