Some of the best moments in my life have been in the dark.
You know, when a packed arena lowers the lights, muffled screams a guitar hit echo and a large velvet curtain falls from the sky? The anticipation can be lethal. But so many of us crave these moments and aren't getting our fix. The drug? Classic rock and roll shows. Def Leppard, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi. Arena rock isn't left in the dark ages anymore.
With so many sub genres of music -- and the Internet to blame/thank -- I came across a band from the east coast doing everything right: Cinder Road. Paying homage to a classic sound but remaining influeced by modern music, their pop-rock songs are infectious, well-written and delivered in a nice little rock and roll package. Awesome stage presence, attitude, generosity toward fans and the determination to play 250 shows a year.
They've opened for Daughtry, KISS and Alice Cooper. But don't be surprised if the guys backing frontman hottie Mike Ruocco are giving lessons to newbies in a few months. They're good, dedicated and do a great job using the Internet to reach fans through their YouTube tour diaries. I'm taking pointers for my band Macadam.
Boys, hit up the West Coast. It'll be fun.
