Steel Panther – The Fillmore – Minneapols MN – November 27th 2024

By Kyle Hansen 3 weeks ago

Steel Panther live at The Fillmore in Minneapolis MN on November 27th 2024

Presented by Live Nation

Review and photos by Kyle Hansen

Stone Horses, a band that blends classic rock influences with a modern edge, recently played a captivating show that had the crowd at the [venue name] rocking out from start to finish. Known for their powerful sound and gritty, soulful performances, the band once again proved why they’re one of the most exciting up-and-coming acts in rock today.

Venue Atmosphere:

The venue was an ideal choice for Stone Horses, offering an intimate yet electric atmosphere. Whether it was a cozy club or a mid-sized theater, the audience felt connected to the band from the moment the lights dimmed. Fans packed the floor, eager to get up close to the stage and feel the full force of the band’s energy. The audience was a mix of die-hard rock fans and newcomers, all of whom seemed to appreciate the band’s raw, authentic sound.

Performance:

Stone Horses delivered a high-energy set that was equal parts classic rock swagger and modern grit. They kicked things off with a powerful opener, building the momentum and getting the crowd in the right headspace right from the start. The band’s ability to seamlessly blend hard rock anthems with southern rock grooves and bluesy undertones made for an engaging and dynamic show.

Vocals:
Lead singer Tommy Gibbons was the true star of the show. His gritty, soulful voice is a perfect match for Stone Horses’ hard-hitting rock sound. He commanded the stage, delivering each line with passion and authenticity. Whether belting out powerful choruses or crooning through slower, more introspective moments, Gibbons’ vocals were a standout element of the night. His connection with the audience was palpable, and his ability to switch between raspy, gritty rock delivery and smoother, melodic moments added depth to their performance.

Guitar & Rhythm:
Guitarists Shane Green and Gibbons (who also plays guitar) crafted a sonic landscape that was both robust and dynamic. Their riffs were a perfect blend of classic rock stylings—think gritty, blues-infused solos and big, anthemic hooks—paired with some contemporary, harder edges. The dual guitar interplay added texture to the sound, especially during solos, which were electrifying.

The rhythm section, made up of drummer Tim McTague and bassist Andrew Elkins, provided a tight and solid backbone. McTague’s drumming had a propulsive quality, driving the band’s intensity, while Elkins’ bass playing was both melodic and powerful, adding depth to the mix.

Highlights:

  • “Edge of the World”: This track, a fan favorite, had the crowd singing along as the band unleashed its infectious, stadium-ready chorus. The song captures everything Stone Horses does best—big hooks, gritty lyrics, and a sound that’s both timeless and fresh.
  • “Desperation Blues”: A slower, bluesy number that gave Gibbons a chance to showcase his vocal range and allowed the band to explore a more soulful side. The crowd swayed to the rhythm, totally lost in the groove.
  • Instrumental Solos: Stone Horses’ guitar solos were a standout moment, especially during the extended bridge sections of songs like “Stand or Fall,” where Green and Gibbons riffed off each other, creating a truly memorable musical moment. Their tight musical interplay made the solos feel organic rather than flashy, giving the audience something to appreciate beyond just technical prowess.
  • Audience Interaction: The band’s ability to connect with the crowd was undeniable. Gibbons chatted with fans, shared stories between songs, and created a welcoming atmosphere. Whether it was telling a funny anecdote or thanking the crowd for their support, the band’s camaraderie with the audience was genuine and engaging.

Sound & Production:

The sound at the show was crisp and clear, allowing Stone Horses’ raw energy to shine through without overpowering the more nuanced elements of their performance. The mix was balanced, with the guitars, vocals, and rhythm section all getting their due time in the spotlight. Lighting was tastefully done, enhancing the atmosphere without detracting from the music. There were moments where dramatic lighting matched the intensity of the music, but overall, it felt like the focus was always on the band itself.

Setlist:

Stone Horses played a well-curated setlist, showcasing material from their debut album along with a few new tracks that hinted at the band’s growth. Fans of classic rock would have recognized the influences, but Stone Horses also brought their own flavor, blending modern grit with timeless rock sensibilities. The show included an excellent mix of fast-paced anthems and slower, moodier ballads, with each song flowing seamlessly into the next.

Conclusion:

Stone Horses’ live show was a testament to their rising place in the rock scene. Their ability to balance infectious, anthemic rock songs with soulful, bluesy moments makes them a band to watch. Tommy Gibbons’ powerful, emotive vocals, combined with the band’s stellar musicianship, created a performance that was both engaging and high-energy.

Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or you just enjoy hard-hitting, authentic music, Stone Horses’ live show is not to be missed. They’re a band that is clearly committed to their craft and delivering a memorable experience for every audience. Expect big things from them as they continue to grow and refine their sound.

 

Steel Panther, the glam-metal parody kings, brought their signature blend of over-the-top rock n’ roll energy to the Fillmore Minneapolis, and it was exactly what fans hoped for—and more. Known for their self-aware humor, epic guitar solos, and unapologetically crude lyrics, the band’s performance was an intoxicating mix of nostalgia and satire that had the crowd on their feet the entire time.

Atmosphere & Crowd:

The Fillmore, with its intimate yet electrifying vibe, was the perfect setting for Steel Panther’s larger-than-life presence. The venue’s capacity allows fans to get up close and personal, while still feeling like part of a big rock spectacle. The crowd, a mix of die-hard fans and curious newcomers, was pumped and ready for an experience that blended music with comedy. From the moment the band hit the stage, the energy in the room was electric.

Fans of all ages, from 80s rock enthusiasts to younger attendees who may have discovered the band through viral videos or word of mouth, all seemed to embrace the joke, enjoying both the music and the antics.

Performance:

Steel Panther’s setlist was a crowd-pleaser, filled with their greatest hits like “Death to All But Metal,” “Party Like Tomorrow Is the End of the World,” and “17 Girls in a Row.” Their blend of 80s glam metal riffs, hair-whipping solos, and absurd humor created an atmosphere of pure rock abandon.

Satirical and self-aware, the band poked fun at everything from their own personas to the world of rock stardom. Lead vocalist Michael Starr was as charismatic as ever, effortlessly shifting between his high-pitched screams and deadpan comedic timing. Guitarist Satchel, a virtuoso in his own right, nailed every solo with showmanship to spare, while bassist Spyder and drummer Stix Zadinia provided solid rhythm and punchy backbeats that held everything together.

The humor was raunchy and unapologetic—think double entendres, crude jokes, and playful ribbing. The band members are fully aware of their ridiculousness, which makes it all the more fun. Their banter with the crowd was classic Steel Panther—endlessly quotable and hilarious, yet never too mean-spirited. Whether they were serenading a bachelorette or mocking rock clichés, their humor struck the perfect balance between outrageous and charming.

Sound & Lights:

The sound at the Fillmore Minneapolis was stellar, with each instrument coming through clearly despite the chaotic energy. The guitars were loud and crunchy, the bass thumping, and the drums snappy. The lighting added a theatrical touch, enhancing the glam-metal vibes with a barrage of flashing colors, lasers, and smoke.

The mix was spot-on—Steel Panther’s sound is bigger than life, and the venue made sure it felt that way without overpowering the performance.

Highlights:

  • The Opening: The band kicked things off with their trademark bombastic intro, immediately pulling the crowd into their world of 80s excess and debauchery.
  • Satchel’s Guitar Solo: This was a masterclass in shredding, with the guitarist not only showing off technical prowess but also weaving in humorous, on-the-fly riffs that had the crowd laughing as much as they were headbanging.
  • Michael Starr’s Stage Presence: His ability to command the crowd with both humor and serious vocal chops is what truly sets Steel Panther apart. He didn’t just sing the songs, he became them.

Conclusion:

Steel Panther’s performance at the Fillmore Minneapolis was a celebration of excess, fun, and heavy metal nostalgia. While their act is definitely not for the faint of heart (or those easily offended), it’s undeniable that the band knows how to put on a show. Fans left grinning from ear to ear, having been thoroughly entertained by the perfect combination of comedy, musicality, and rock n’ roll spectacle.

If you’re a fan of 80s hair metal and aren’t easily offended, Steel Panther’s live show is an experience you won’t want to miss.