The house lights dimmed to the rumbling introduction of Cheap Trick's "Stop This Game," while founding bassist Tom Petersson and new drummer Daxx Nielsen mounted the stage; the former clad in charcoal tones, while the latter sported a black T-shirt. Then, as vocalist Robin Zander appeared in a white suit and matching hat, the capacity crowd lost all restraint.
To the cheers of hundreds of fans, the rockers tore into their opener; 1977's "Hello There." The ensuing frenzy nearly morphed into a mosh pit, as guitarist Rick Nielsen — in a black cap and suit — dished out his signature licks. Without missing a beat, the group transitioned into "Long Time No See Ya" from the group's latest album, this year's "Bang Zoom Crazy ... Hello."
The band was on form and rocking harder than it did two years prior at a gig at Shibuya's O-East venue. Maybe it was because the members are coming off some highs this year, in particular its April induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As Zander sang from the edge of the stage, he gave off a kind of rock god swagger that's rare these days. Maybe it was just his moves in combination with Rick's guitar riffs that brought about some nostalgia for me though.