Artpark opened its season with a bang this past Tuesday night. Hall and Oates first appearance at Artpark in 40 years (in 1974 they opened up for the late Richie Havens) was the most anticipated slated show on the schedule for this entire season in talking amongst concert goers. Hall and Oates delivered in every way that the fans hoped they would by performing an impressive set that consisted of just about every hit the duo ever cranked out.
The first Philadelphia homegrown talent to reach Rock and Roll Hall of Fame status took the stage opening up with the sax driven “Maneater.” Hall sporting longer locks these days and Oates without that famed mustache looked great and worked through initial sound difficulties. Oblivious to any feedback, the duo and their band smiled and kept the music flowing. By the 4th song, everything was locked in and being it the first show of the summer tour, they were able to work out any kinks and deliver a quality performance.
There was almost no interaction between the duo but by playing together for so long, they knew how to play off of each other so it really didn’t matter. “Alone Too Long” really was a highlight for the harmonies and the blues feel that ensued for the rest of the evening’s performance. Longtime sax/keyboardist Charles “Mr. Casual” DeChant had his moments as well enjoying some sax solos on “Las Vegas Turnaround” and of course, “Maneater.”
The band gave two separate encores that include their biggest hits “Private Eyes” and “Kiss on my List.” Before their 2nd encore started, Hall thanked the fans for showing support to his TV show “Live at Daryl’s House.” Oates talked about his recent solo release titled “Good Road to Follow” where Hall chimed in that’s it’s important to support new music.
This show was all about the hits, and Hall & Oates gave that to them. It kept the people moving and dancing the entire time. That’s what it’s all about. Keeping the audiences interest after 44 years proves that this band is not only Rock and Roll Hall of Fame worthy, but more importantly, worthy of each paid admission dollar.
Setlist:
Maneater
Out of Touch
Say It Isn’t So
Method of Modern Love
Adult Education
Alone Too Long
Las Vegas Turnaround (The Stewardess Song)
She’s Gone
Sara Smile
I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do)
Encore:
Rich Girl
Make My Dreams Come True
Encore
Kiss on my List
Private Eyes
We would like to thank Dillon Barbosa from Wolfson Entertainment for the photo pass and Maria Hays from Artpark for the tickets to review the show.
