Def Leppard @ Acer Arena,Sydney (05/11/08)

Fri 7th Nov, 2008 in Gig Reviews

As 8pm hit, rock legends Cheap Trick hit the stage in their support act slot. Singer Robin Zander looked every bit the rock man in his leather pants and cowboy hat, as Rick Neilsen asked the crowd if, “They’re ready to rock.”

Thirty years after their formation and the Illinois lads can still hold their own, as they belted out beauties we’ve grown to love – Surrender, Dream Police, If You Want My Love, Come On, Come On and Voices. Neilsen bought out a guitar for every song, going through his array of the big and beautiful that included a five-neck Fender. Neilsen took pleasure in being the spokesman for the band, mentioning how Cheap Trick was still the original members and this was their third visit to Australia.

The biggest crowd pleaser was the lovely The Flame, accompanied by a loud cheer and a few swaying lighters. Zander’s voice was angelic as he sang the innocent and intense words that give the song its pulling power.

An hour and a half later and the main act hit the stage, with Rocket accompanied by a collage of Def Leppard’s history on the backdrop screen. The boys hit the ground running, launching into Animal and C’mon C’mon from their latest offering The Sparkle Lounge. Though their songs may be a little cheesy, they nevertheless are tight and polished. The crowd loved them as they sashayed through hit after hit.

Pyromania’s Foolin was followed by Adrenalize’s Make Love Like A Man and completed with Nine Lives from The Sparkle Lounge, with an extended guitar interlude. Such was the diversity of the set list – a healthy mix of songs from each album that illustrated their longevity.

Love Bites came out of nowhere to a rapturous applause with a nice extended solo from Vivian Campbell. Joe Elliott’s vocals were crisp as he held his notes. This was best exemplified by the acoustic Two Steps Behind, as all band members (less drummer Rick Allen ) ascended to the front of the stage for their harmonious number. It was accompanied by Bringin On The Heartbreak, ending in an explosive version for an aluminous finish.

Amidst a guitar solo or two, the treats flowed with Hysteria, Armageddon, Pour Some Sugar On Me, When Love and Hurt Collide and Let’s Get Rocked. The guitar solos were lucid yet restrained, further exemplifying the sophistication and careful consideration of the band onstage. Though tickets were not cheap, this concert was worth saving up for.