After 40 plus years and no signs of slowing down anytime soon, Lynyrd Skynyrd rolled into the Seneca Allegany Casino for the 1st time in 5 years this past Saturday night. Lynyrd Skynyrd seemed to be primed to go as they hit the stage. Vocalist Johnny Van Zant noted “we are still celebrating over 40 years as a band.” The band then began the classic “Workin’ for the MCA.”
Van Zandt understands what the “Skynyrd Nation” (what the fans of the band are called) wants and gives it to them. He works the stage making lots of gestures which engage and energize the crowd.
During the track “Mississippi Kid,” guitarist Rickey Medlocke played a mandolin and guitarist Mark Matejka played an acoustic guitar adding a special flavor to the song. Original and founding member Gary Rossington led the band on the tune “That Smell.” The man who shows little emotion can still play a lick with the best of them.
A new face has taken over bass duties since the last time I saw them. Former Black Crowes bassist Johnny Colt is now holding down the rhythm section along with drummer Michael Cartellone. Colt fit right in and actually reminded me a little bit of original bassist Leon Wilkerson with his outlandish hats.
The love filled the room as the audience hung on every note and word the band played and sang. The fans were into it through the entire 1 hour and 20 minute set. No matter who is in the band one thing remains certain, Lynyrd Skynyrd still remains a hearty draw and a damn good time!
Setlist:
Workin’ for the MCA
I Ain’t the One
Call Me the Breeze (J.J. Cale cover)
What’s Your Name?
Down South Jukin’
That Smell
Saturday Night Special
Simple Man
Mississippi Kid
Tuesday’s Gone
Gimme Three Steps
Sweet Home Alabama
Encore:
Freebird
We would like to thank Greg Bechkos from the Seneca Niagara Casino for the credentials to review the show.
