Electrifying Opening Act: The Effect Rocks Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa
Being an opening act for a major band is no small feat. It's about warming up the audience and getting their adrenaline pumping. Many bands struggle to connect with an unfamiliar crowd, but The Effect defied these odds at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tulsa, opening for Billy Idol on May 14th.
Taking the stage promptly at 7 PM, just as the doors were opening, The Effect had a unique challenge. Yet, they turned this to their advantage, showcasing their undeniable talent and making an instant connection with the audience.
The Effect is no ordinary new band. Even without their impressive lineage, their raw talent and dedication to creating a sound that is both familiar and uniquely theirs sets them apart in today's music scene dominated by manufactured beats and auto-tune. This band is pure rock 'n' roll!
Vocalist Emmett Stang, guitarist Trev Lukather, and drummer Nic Collins took the stage with a powerful presence. Despite the initially empty theater, they drew the audience in from the first downbeat. Opening with "Toxic Envy," Emmett’s dynamic voice and commanding stage presence, reminiscent of Jim Morrison and Paul Rodgers, captivated the growing crowd, who eagerly moved closer to the stage.
Their set continued with "Something Wrong," their debut release from late 2023. Trev Lukather's masterful riffs and Nic Collins' tight rhythms showcased a chemistry usually seen in bands with years of performance together, despite The Effect recording their album remotely.
The Effect's music is fresh and new, yet it honors a distinct '80s feel, creating an immediate connection with the audience. Their enjoyment in performing was palpable, adding to the fun and engaging atmosphere.
Next, they performed the unreleased "High Life" and their latest release, "It Could Have Been You," a classic Journey deep cut featuring backing vocals from Steve Perry himself. The band's rendition honored the original while adding their unique touch.
As the set progressed, Nic Collins showcased his drumming prowess with a powerful solo, using the same kit he played on tour with Mike + The Mechanics in 2023, now enhanced with two added toms that are not only in the songs, but as he puts it are “part of the family crest”. His performance was a masterclass in rhythm and style, honoring his legacy while carving out his own distinct sound.
The six-song set concluded with the unreleased "World Between Us" and the electrifying "Unwanted." The latter, with its scorching licks, left the new fans eagerly anticipating more from The Effect.
The Effect is set for an exciting summer, opening for Toto in Europe and performing a set at the iconic Isle of Wight Festival. Don't miss any opportunity to experience The Effect live – a band destined to capture your senses and leave a lasting impression.
