Live with Leslie West on tour 2001:  March 9, 2001

Torn Ticket Productions Jeff Jatras finally caught up with the Leslie West tour at Jaxx's in Springfield.  Pics are compliments of Jeff unless otherwise noted.

The night rocked with Leslie West on guitar/vocals, Richie Scarlet on bass, and Steve Luongo on drums put on an amazing set of classic rock and roll that drew wild cheers from a packed house.

   Mr. West, known for his ability to create power trios from Hell such as "Mountain" and "West, Bruce, and Laing", was once again right on target.   In addition to the master himself, and Richie on bass, comes now Steve Luongo from "The John Entwistle Band" to round out the nights incredible triangle of talent.   With his guitar work in top form after lo these many years, and his voice unfazed by over 30 years in the business, Leslie and the boys held the audience captive as they belted out song after song including (appropriately) "Hall of the Mountain King" an incredible version of "House of the Rising Sun", and of course his signature, "Mississippi Queen",

Once again, Leslie proved he's a certified Rock Legend.  Richie, of course, could not help but be inspired by the bass slot once filled by the likes of Jack Bruce and Felix Pappalardi.  However, as Leslie once reportedly said, "I've already played with those guys.  Now I want to play with you", that's what he got as Richie placed his own brand and signature licks on the night for many fans of "The Emperor of Rock and Roll" who came to see him.  No one left disappointed as whether on lead guitar, bass, keyboards, and/or vocals, Richie Scarlet always raises the intensity of any show to that rare next level.

  Compliments of Mr. West, Richie and Steve both took an opportunity to display their own formidable vocal talents.   Richie, with his smokey vocal style in the tradition of the great bluesmen was an instant hit for an appreciative audience.

  In complete contrast, but no less inspiring, was Steve's fantastic vocals on

a knock down great version of   "Whole Lotta Love"...

...as Richie paid his own Page tribute.   

Not a weak link in the chain as each member of the band pushed the others further out to the edge of the envelope with sheer talent and energy.

After the show, Richie (as he likes to do when possible) hung around to meet and greet the fans, signing autographs, and just winding down, this time in preparation for the last night of the tour, on March 10 at the Stone Pony.

L-R Jeff Jatras, Steve Loungo, Richie Scarlet (photo by Mark Huffman)