Concert Review: Trial By Fire

Performing a show where you cover the legendary Journey is no easy task. Journey has one of the most iconic legacies in arena rock, a perennial favorite among many music fans with a catalog that spans a myriad of smash hits. Journey's legacy is expansive and their sound is so recognizable that covering them is a dangerous risk to take because failing to meet the mark could prove a critical mistake.

Well, Trial By Fire does not need to worry about that. They are completely on par with Journey. I’ve always felt like I missed out on something never seeing the original Journey (Steve Perry fronted) perform during their touring days. After seeing Trial By Fire, I feel that dream has come to fruition. They played all of the hits, “Lights”, “Who’s Crying Now”, “Open Arms”, “Faithfully”, “Don’t Stop Believing’”, “Any Way You Want It”, “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’” etc.

A stunning vocal performance by lead vocalist, Ernie Shepherd, will have you doing a double take. As your ears will, definitely have trouble telling the difference between the renowned voice of Steve Perry and Shepherd’s spectacular vocals.

The skill of lead guitarist Tony Newell was spellbinding. He has to be the best guitarist I have ever had the pleasure to hear play live. He played every song to the hilt with embellishments that elevated the band’s covers to staggering heights. He displayed the seamless expertise of a guitar veteran, his rifts blazing with unfathomable acumen. 

Jason Rome was marvelous on the keyboard and guitar. Jon Reed performed an amazing bass routine and very memorable solo performance, doing a stellar rift solo. Dan Ross brought massive synergy on the drums, also giving an amazing solo performance. The band’s collective vocals had some stunning harmonies that were outstanding.

The camaraderie of the band was tangible and they had a sensational stage energy and rapport that raised this concert to another level, engaging with the audience on a steady basis. Afterwards they chatted with fans and took pictures with kids, an endearing mellow for rockers. If you get a chance to see them, do not let it pass you by!

For tickets you can click here. To learn the latest on Trial By Fire, you can visit their website, follow them on Twitter @tbfjourney and on Facebook.

[Image by Trial By Fire]