Don Felder, former lead guitarist for the Eagles, graced the stage at the Seneca Allegany Events Center, in Salamanca, NY, on Saturday night. The opening number, “Hotel California,” complete with Felder donning a double neck guitar, set the tone for the next 90 minutes. The intimate crowd of about 2000 was treated to an evening of mostly Eagles’ songs as Felder and his band put on a tremendous display of musicianship. The Eagles’ heavy set was just what his fans were looking for, although he did manage to fit in two very well received songs from his latest album “Road to Forever” with “Wash Away” and “Girls in Black.”
Felder is a truly amazing guitarist and has continued to surround himself with top notch musicians as he traded solos with guitarist Frank Simes throughout the show. Scott Devours on drums, Shem von Schroeck on bass and keyboard player Timothy Drury rounded out the rhythm section and although Felder handled lead vocals, his band members are certainly capable singers. The vocal harmonies were spot on throughout the performance and highlighted during “Seven Bridges Road.” Upon introducing the Steve Young cover, Felder told the audience that the Eagles used to warm up by singing the tune backstage. This song really showcased the incredible vocal harmonies that the Eagles are famous for and Felder’s band did the song justice as they began singing a capella before the instruments kicked in. It was the highlight of the concert for me, and it appeared the rest of the crowd was in agreement as the song garnered a standing ovation.
“Those Shoes” included talking guitar effects from both Felder and Simes and in a comedic moment, Felder dedicated “Witchy Woman” to Tiger Woods, saying that Woods knows plenty of them. “Heartache Tonight” had fans on their feet and singing along. Felder closed the set with “Life in the Fast Lane” and returned to the stage for a one song encore, finishing off with “Take it Easy.”
The lights came on and Felder returned to the stage for several minutes. He casually sat down on the front of the stage and took the time to sign autographs and shake hands with fans. I was impressed that this Grammy Award winning Rock and Roll Hall of Famer shared his time after the show. This legendary musician is very down to earth. One of his roadies gave a devoted fan the set list from the stage and Don Felder personalized it, even making sure he had the fan’s name spelled correctly as he autographed it. Another admirer mentioned that it was her birthday and he posed for a picture with her. He’s a class act and clearly demonstrated that he really appreciates his followers.
Setlist:
Hotel California
Already Gone
One of These Nights
Pride and Joy (Stevie Ray Vaughn cover)
Wash Away
Victim of Love
Peaceful Easy Feeling
Tequila Sunrise
Seven Bridges Road (Steve Young cover)
Those Shoes
Girls in Black
Heavy Metal (Takin’ a Ride)
The Long Run
Witchy Woman
Heartache Tonight
Life in the Fast Lane
Encore:
Take it Easy
We would like to thank Tony Astran for his assistance in helping BackstageAxxess review the show.
