Editorials
A Night of Timeless Rock at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows
by Dave Parsons
On a warm Friday the 13th of June in Washington, Pennsylvania, the Meadows Event Center at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows became a sanctuary for rock enthusiasts. The 1,500 seat venue is known for hosting classic rock legends to classic country acts, as well as contemporary artists.
Night Ranger, who has played some of the largest stages in the world, and a legacy of decades of music to pull from, combined with the venue’s state-of-the-art sound system, provided the perfect backdrop for the legendary rock band. This venue doesn’t have a bad seat or place to stand in the house and allows acts to connect with their audience in ways that larger arenas often can’t. The energy grew as the lights went down and the band filed into the back door of the venue.
The band was formed in 1982, and they’ve managed to keep their classic rock sound, with a touch of pop, which made them an example of the ’80s rock scene. Although the band has seen lineup changes, the core of the group has always been tight. Founding member Jack Blades’ powerful voice, bass playing prowess, and songwriting have been central to the band’s success. Drummer Kelly Keagy, also a founding member, keeps everyone tightly together. Guitarist Brad Gillis, Eric Levy on keyboards, and Keri Kelli also on guitar round out the lineup that was ready to rock Washington, PA.
The dramatic rock entrance led into the (You Can Still) Rock in America, and the night was off and running. The song had the same driving energy it did when it first came out, as did the audience, many of whom probably remembered when it was a new song. Four in the Morning, downshifted the energy a little, before Sing Me Away, brought it right back up. The crowd was singing the lyrics back at the band. During Sentimental Street the band let the audience take the lead singing, sounding like a rock choir, and you could see the smiles on the guys in the band.
Another high point was an extended drum solo during Night Ranger, as Kelly Keagy took center stage. This led into a full-band jam session that wasn’t a song but a showcase of the talent this band has. Other highlights in the setlist were nods to Damn Yankees with High Enough and Coming of Age, and the softer singalongs like Goodbye and When You Close Your Eyes.
Night Ranger closed their set with Sister Christian, one of the most iconic songs in rock history. The crowd had been waiting for this, and as the bassline began, the audience went wild. You could see the memories of teenage years, this song brought to the audience, and they sang at the top of their lungs with whatever energy they had left.
As the final notes faded, there was no doubt that Night Ranger had again proven why they remain rock legends. Their blend of old-school rock ‘n’ roll energy, timeless hits, and stage presence made another deposit into their legacy, assuring that it will continue for years to come.
Night Ranger Setlist:
1. (You Can Still) Rock in America
2. Four in the Morning
3. Sing Me Away
4. Coming of Age
5. Sentimental Street
6. The Secret of My Success
7. Night Ranger
8. High Enough
9. Goodbye
10. When You Close Your Eyes
11. Don’t Tell Me You Love Me
12. Sister Christian
