Concert Review: Intense Performance by Lynch Mob at Racket in NYC – 2/26/26
On a chilly evening in late February in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City, the band Lynch Mob put on a show that defied the boundaries of age and showcased the ever-changing nature of rock music. By merging various aspects of George Lynch’s musical career on one stage, this performance acted as a unique intersection of his past and present artistic endeavors. While some audience members added to the atmosphere by dressing up as characters from Miami Vice, the primary focus of the night was on the music, positioning Lynch Mob’s appearance as a nod to the enduring legacy of rock and a demonstration of its continuous evolution. The excitement surrounding the kick-off show of the Mr. Scary tour—featuring an extensive set of Dokken songs—emphasized Lynch’s lasting impact and his willingness to collaborate with contemporary artists. Despite the evening starting with four relatively average opening acts and a lengthy wait time, these aspects ultimately enhanced the importance and influence of the main performance, reinforcing the belief that rock music remains a lively and unifying cultural force.
The Kobi Reese Band, originating from New Jersey, opened the event with a display of youthful exuberance as they sought to establish their musical identity. Their energetic rendition of Extreme’s “Get the Funk Out” showcased their technical skills and enthusiasm, while their original song “Eyes of the Night” hinted at a budding songwriting talent that had yet to fully blossom. The band’s six members displayed a significant amount of energy and ambition during their brief thirty-minute set. However, despite their collective efforts, the overall impact of their performance was hindered by a lack of distinctiveness in both style and stage presence. Their set, while competent, felt like a bridge between a polished act and a band still exploring their musical direction.
Following the Kobi Reese Band, the classic rock-inspired group Dazr brought their South Carolina flair to the stage, performing songs from their self-titled debut EP. Though musically proficient, their set lacked innovation, sticking closely to the established norms of the New Wave of Classic Rock genre. Dazr’s original compositions displayed a fondness for familiar riff-driven structures and melodic guitar lines but failed to carve out a unique sound of their own. Despite a sincere stage presence, the band struggled to differentiate themselves within the genre. Ending their set with a rendition of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs,” a well-known crowd-pleaser, only added to the sense of predictability that lingered throughout their performance.
Boston’s All Sinners, a hard rock quartet, electrified the crowd with their brand of nineties-influenced heavy rock reminiscent of Skid Row. Their set attracted new fans and built excitement for the impending arrival of Lynch Mob.
Additionally, comedians Don Jamieson and Jim Florentine entertained the audience with comedic banter between sets, adding a touch of spontaneity to the event. Their humor and audience interaction further highlighted the night’s theme of rock music’s ability to bring together diverse individuals through shared experiences.
Trixster, as the special guest support for Lynch Mob, made their return to New York after nearly a quarter of a century. Despite their loyal following, their performance lacked the inventiveness that sets apart acts like Tesla or Skid Row. While the band showcased technical skill and energetic stage presence, their reliance on well-worn genre tropes left their sound feeling somewhat stale compared to more innovative peers. Though the band connected with the audience, their set served as a reminder of the timeless and evolving nature of rock music. Lynch Mob’s subsequent performance, marked by energy and renewal, stood out against the predictability of acts like Trixster, showcasing the continued dynamism and appeal of rock music across generations.