A review by KEG / sugarkeg@hotmail.com

OK--no formal review here, but I am a TRUE Bon Jovi fan (and HAVE been a true fan since 1986). I have only seen Bon Jovi three times, but nothing prepared me for what I experienced Friday night.

It was an absolutely incredible show--from the moment the house lights went out and the audience heard the beginning notes for "One Wild Night" and the band appeared on the huge video screen, it was full-speed ahead.

After seeing the guys on "Behind the Music," I wondered if they would seem like the same old band that was doing it all "for the fans." But after seeing how Jon and Richie and the rest of the guys interacted, laughed, and smiled, it was apparent that they were having a good time. Jon made references to his U-571 movie and how the rest of the guys had to bring his ass back down to earth. He poked fun at his People magazine "Sexiest Man in Rock" award. He told stories. It was like he could have been the guy next door you've known for years and could always make you smile.

Most importantly, they sounded incredible and were FULL of energy. Richie played every solo to the note, especially in "The Next 100 Years" and "Wanted". And I don't even need to comment on the perfection of Jon's vocal abilities.

It was also incredible to see so many other Bon Jovi fans. The guy next to me knew the words to almost every song, which proves they aren't all about the glitz. Yeah, Jon did the jumps and the ass-shaking, but he's still true to the music, as always.

As the third (YES, THIRD) encoure came to an end (2 1/2 hours!), Jon even made a comment about how he didn't want to leave. OK--maybe he always says that, maybe not. But for myself--it was truly a night that I will never forget. If I ever am lucky enough to meet them, I will thank them for all of the awesome years of their music, which to me, is almost like an old friend. I just hope it isn't another 5 years before they are back!

back to tour information page