It happens. Bands break up and some get back together – and then there’s The Tea Party – who brought their much-anticipated show to Gratwick Park in North Tonawanda, NY, on Sunday July 14, 2013.
“Why do we wait so long to return here?” Jeff Martin belted out to the mass who packed the park. Every second of the show complemented the one that came before it! Every song was flawless! They rocked like the absolute polished professionals that they are, as if they had never been apart. A group that has received comparisons to Led Zeppelin and The Clash. The Tea Party’s music is filled with those influences, yet sustains their own unique, timeless sound – an intoxicating mix of blues and rock led by Martin’s booming baritone vocals.
The time was right for the return of The Tea Party – and the boys are back in true rock and roll fashion. Taking the stage to a huge roar, they kicked off the show with “Writing’s on the Wall,” originally released as a promo single CD in 2004.
More hollers of approval greeted the scorching guitar riffs of “The Bazaar” from their ’95 album “The Edges Of Twilight,” and fan favorite “Psychopomp.” After some mixed performances in recent years, it was evident Martin’s voice was as strong as ever, and the band is fit for action, packing as much punch as ever. Stuart Chatwood on bass and keyboards, with his slicked back hair and glasses, kept it tight, alongside powerhouse drummer Jeff Burrows, who was relentless behind the kit.
There’s no denying Martin’s stage presence and charisma – strutting and throwing back his mane of hair as he strikes rock star poses with his guitar slung low. He appeared to be having a great time rocking the park with his buddies. “Messenger” led right into an epic version of “Fire In The Head,” with Chatwood providing the bass line and backing vocals, proving that the combined power of the band is much greater than its parts.
After a scorching finale of “Temptation” they left the stage, only to return to unleash their signature tune, “Sister Awake,” reaching an explosive climax before bidding the crowd goodnight.
Like “Heaven Coming Down” says; “Stay Strong, Keep Faith – There is a change that’s coming through.” The Tea Party is bringing it back to us. Cheers.
Set List:
Writings on The Wall
The Bazaar
Lullaby
Psychopomp
Messenger
Fire In The Head
Heaven Coming Down
Sun Going Down
Halcyon Days
Save Me
Release
Temptation
Encore:
Sister Awake
We would like to thank the Caronia Media Group for the credentials to review the show.
