FOR THE LOVE OF BUDDY MILES RETURNS TO DEARBORN, MICHIGAN
After a successful turn out in 2024, For The Love Of Buddy Miles returned to Michael Guido Theater in Dearborn, Michigan on March 1st. The evening showcased an impressive array of talented musicians from the realms of classic rock and R&B, all sharing the same stage.
The night opened with a set from Detroit’s own, Slight Return. The five piece group graced the audience’s ears with their song, “Don’t Stop Me Now", which had the audience tapping their feet. They are a band that proudly shows their influences while making it their own thing.This was very prominent in their song, “Welcome To The D”, where they blend many styles ranging from rock, funk, and funk metal. The band’s tight performance and dynamic stage presence were particularly highlighted when members Christian Vegh and William Pope stood side by side, energetically engaging with one another. By the time the band hit their final chord, everyone in the crowd got out of their seats and gave Slight Return a well deserved ovation.
After a 15 minute intermission, Slight Return made their way back to the stage and were accompanied by a slew of special guests to honor Buddy Miles. These guests ranged from Juma Sultan who played percussion for Jimi Hendrix to Kenny Olson who played with Kid Rock. The set opened with “Runaway Child,” transporting the audience back to 1970. The Woodward Horns section added a delightful flourish to the song. With an ensemble of such caliber, the lineup featured various musicians rotating throughout the set; one moment, Kenny Olson would be on lead guitar, followed by Jim McCarty of The Rockets. The vocals were held down by Tony Lindsay, Henri Brown, and Derek St Holmes who added so much soul to each song. The first set concluded with drum duet solo by two drumming legends, Dennis Chambers and Bernard Purdie. Their chemistry and playing had the audience on their feet after their performances.
The second set was filled with just as many remarkable moments as the first. When you have “Black Magic Woman” as your set opener, you know you are in for a great time. Mark Kassa and Christian Vegh from Slight Return exchanged solos during the song showing off their great gifts. What followed was a powerful rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s “Machine Gun” lead by musician couple, Lance Lopez and Izy Riff. It was brought to the audience’s attention that this was Izy’s first performance in America and it was an impressive debut. The band transitioned to two of Buddy’s well known hits, “Them Changes” and “We’ve Got To Live Together.” Each song was performed with such passion and each member was having a blast. The addition of the Detroit Pershing High Choir added a unique touch to "We’ve Got To Live Together.” Just when the audience thought the concert was over, Derek St Holmes returned to the stage and led the band into the Ted Nugent classic, “Stranglehold”. It was an amazing surprise and great way to end a memorable night.
