The Metal Files

Last night was the 4th time I’ve seen Chicago since 1991 and the 3rd time since 2012.  I’ve loved this band since I was a kid thanks to their heavy radio play and thanks to my Mom being a big fan.

Last night’s show was “an evening with” type show, meaning no opener which was fine with me.  My friend, Kitty, ended up going with me and into the Moody Theater we went.

As soon as they hit the stage, I noticed on huge difference in the band.  Jason Scheff, the bassist/vocalist who replaced Peter Cetera, was not there.  Instead, Jeff Coffey was handling those duties.  Apparently Jason had a family emergency and had to back out of the tour.  Coffey auditioned for the band a week or so ago and got the job.  Impressive.

The band played the set you’d expect with a song from their latest album thrown in.  These “geezers” still deliver and it’s impressive how much energy they have.  I’ll say this, though.  Jeff Coffey was the highlight for me.  For as good as Scheff is, Coffey was nailing Cetera’s vocal and bass parts effortlessly.  I was really blown away.  I’d be ok if he became a permanent member.

As always, the highlight song for me was Hard to Say I’m Sorry/Get Away.  Street Player, Call on Me and Another Rainy Day in New York City were also great to hear again.

Even more impressive is that they played 32 songs. 32!

Kitty and Monkey Boy