5 reasons why you should have caught Stereophonics’ comeback to the upper Midwest
Welsh rock band Stereophonics embarked on their first tour in three years on March 21, marking their return to North America after a hiatus since 2018. The seasoned band, led by guitarist and vocalist Kelly Jones and bassist Richard Jones, took the stage at The Vic Theater in Chicago, a venue they had previously performed at. This tour coincided with the upcoming release of their new album, “Make ’em Laugh, Make ’em Cry, Make ’em Wait,” set to drop on April 26. Stereophonics treated fans to well-known hits, including an unexpected ukulele rendition of “I Wouldn’t Believe Your Radio.”
Among the top reasons not to miss Stereophonics’ revival in the upper Midwest was the exclusive sneak peek at their upcoming record. Despite only unveiling two tracks from the upcoming album, these songs seamlessly integrated into the band’s musical repertoire, offering fans a taste of what to expect from their 13th studio album. The band’s performance showcased a quarter of the new album, hinting at a collection that would resonate with loyal followers.
Fans in attendance were thrilled to hear iconic tracks like “Dakota,” “Maybe Tomorrow,” “Traffic,” “Have a Nice Day,” and “Hurry Up and Wait,” bringing back fond memories of the band’s classic hits. While some audience members may have missed out on personal favorites like “Pick A Part That’s New” and “A Thousand Trees,” the concert still delivered a nostalgic and electrifying experience to the crowd.
Kelly Jones’ enduring rock ‘n’ roll vocals stood out as a highlight of the evening, reminiscent of legendary voices like Rod Stewart during his Faces era. Following a vocal cord surgery several years ago, Jones’ vocal performance reflected his resilience and dedication to maintaining his signature sound. The band, now expanded to a six-piece ensemble, displayed a mature and cohesive stage presence, providing a solid musical foundation for Jones’ evocative voice to shine.
Early in the evening, rising young band Witches Exist captivated the audience as the concert’s opener, showcasing their guitar-heavy post-punk and ’90s “alternative” inspired sound to an appreciative crowd. The band’s diverse and energetic performance set the stage for an unforgettable night of live music.
Overall, Stereophonics delivered a memorable setlist that thrilled fans, featuring classic hits like “Superman,” “Maybe Tomorrow,” and “Traffic.” The band’s encore performance of “Mr Writer,” “Hurry Up and Wait,” and “Dakota” left the audience buzzing with excitement and nostalgia. The evening was a testament to Stereophonics’ enduring musical legacy and their ability to captivate audiences with their raw talent and timeless hits.