Rick Springfield @ Fallsview Casino, Niagara Falls, Ontario 4-5-13

Rick Springfield’s name conjures up images of swooning teenage girls in the 1980’s. Approximately thirty years removed from the era that brought us hits like “I’ve Done Everything for You” and “Jessie’s Girl,” Rick’s appearance hasn’t changed much, but his audience has.

The crowd at the Fallsview Casino show was a mix of ages and genders, but they had one thing in common, they enjoyed a high-energy performance from Springfield. It was the kind of show that young rockers should study, for it was a shining example of live performance perfection.

Springfield has developed a loyal fan base over the years. That is likely due to the fact he gives it all onstage. The clichéd rock star moves like the Pete Townshend invented windmill guitar technique, the endless throwing of guitar picks, and high tossing of guitars to the guitar tech on the side of the stage were done to perfection.

Springfield has his own trademark moves, including the smashed rose bouquet which he either destroys on a guitar or on the drums, and his wading in the crowd for “Human Touch.” It makes for a fun evening, and watching the sexagenarian pounce around the stage like a kid is downright inspiring.

In addition to the obvious hits like “Affair of the Heart” and “Love Somebody,” Rick is supporting a great new release “Songs for the End of the World.” He showcased a few of the songs, including the show stopping, “I Hate Myself.”

Overall, it was an amazing evening of music, and it reminded me why I became addicted to live music. It’s no wonder Dave Grohl tapped him for his Sound City project.

Set List:

Wide Awake
I’ve Done Everything for You
I Get Excited
Jet (Wings cover)
Our Ships Sinking
Affair of the Heart
Allyson
I Hate Myself
Man That Never Was (Sound City Players cover)
Love is Alright Tonight
Crossroads (Eric Clapton cover)
Human Touch
You & Me/My Fathers Chair/Love Screws Me Up (medley)
Don’t Talk to Strangers
Love Somebody
Jessie’s Girl