STYX at Ruoff Music Center for the "Renegades & Juke Box Heroes Tour"
Review & Photos By John Geiger
July, 26th 2024
Styx, the American rock band formed in Chicago in 1972, brought their unique blend of melodic hard rock, progressive musical elements, and theatrical flair to Noblesville's Ruoff Music Center for their "Renegades & Juke Box Heroes Tour." Celebrating 50 years together, the band delivered a performance that was both nostalgic and electrifying, leaving fans old and new thoroughly entertained.
After Forgeiner blew away the audience as the opening act, Styx took the stage to a palpable sense of excitement. Opening with “The Grand Illusion,” they set the tone for a night of high-energy rock and intricate musicianship. The band immediately kicked into high gear with “Too Much Time on My Hands,” showcasing their tight sound and dynamic stage presence.
Tommy Shaw, on guitars and vocals, and Lawrence Gowan, on keyboards and vocals, were the driving forces of the night. Shaw’s guitar work was impeccable, and his vocals resonated with the crowd, while Gowan’s energetic performance and mastery of the keys added layers of richness to the sound. James "J.Y." Young on guitar, Todd Sucherman on drums, and Will Evankovich on guitar, along with bassist Ricky Phillips, rounded out the lineup, each bringing their own flair and skill to the performance.
The setlist was a perfect mix of classic hits and newer tracks, keeping the audience engaged and on their feet. The huge hit ballad “Lady” was a standout moment, drawing a wave of nostalgia and applause from the crowd. James Young's vocals and guitar work added a powerful punch to the performance, especially on tracks like “Miss America” and “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights).”
Midway through the set, the band injected extra energy with a pair of mega-hits, “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)” and “The Best of Times.” Todd Sucherman’s drumming was particularly impressive, driving the songs with precision and power. The momentum continued with “Come Sail Away,” a song that had the entire venue singing along and swaying to its iconic melody.
After a brief departure from the stage, Styx returned for an encore that began with the fan- favorite “Mr. Roboto.” The crowd’s reaction was euphoric, and the band’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. They closed the night with “Renegade,” sending fans into the night with smiles on their faces and the music still playing in their heads.
The band's chemistry was evident throughout the show, as they played with a sense of camaraderie and joy that comes from decades of performing together. It was clear that they were not just playing for the audience, but also for each other, celebrating their 50- year journey with every note.
Styx’s performance on the "Renegades & Juke Box Heroes Tour" was a testament to their enduring legacy and their ability to captivate audiences with their blend of rock, theatrics, and musicianship. It was a night to remember, celebrating five decades of incredible music and unforgettable performances. If you have the chance to see this tour, don’t miss it – it’s a rock experience that promises to be memorable from start to finish. You can purchase music by Styx from Indy CD & Vinyl online HERE!
Styx Rock Out At Ruoff Music Center
Current Band Members: Tommy Shaw (Guitars, Vocals) - Lawrence Gowan (Keyboards, Vocals) - James "J.Y." Young (Guitar) - Todd Sucherman (Drums) - Will Evankovich (Guitar) - Ricky Phillips (Bass)
Setlist: 1. The Grand Illusion 2. Too Much Time on My Hands 3. Lady 4. Lorelei 5. Crash of the Crown 6. Miss America 7. Rockin' the Paradise 8. Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) 9. The Best of Times 10. Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man) 11. Come Sail Away
Encore. 12. Mr. Roboto 13. Renegade
Photo Gallery:
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