Earth Wind & Fire AND Chicago at the Hollywood Casino in St. Louis, Missouri on July 10th, 2024.
Photos and Review by The Pit Magazine Contributor Sevauna Photography
Fans at the Hollywood Casino Amphitheater in St. Louis were proud to be the first stop on the Chicago and Earth Wind & Fire Heart & Soul Tour. This would be an unforgettable night filled with epic sets from each band that would take the audience through a sonic time capsule
CHICAGO
Chicago was the first to take the stage. They would kick off an extraordinary night of classic jazz-rock, or as they describe themselves, a “Rock and roll band with horns”. Their set began with rich and energetic guitar riffs and horns from their hit “25 or 6 to 4”. From just the first notes, it was evident that the night was off to an astonishing start. While taking a trip down memory lane, the visuals behind them carried along, displaying groovy patterns from the ’70s and 80’s, such as “Saturday in the Park” from 1972.
Lead singer Robert Lamm was front and center, vocals sounding just as unforgettable as their vintage hits were recorded. Throughout the set guitarist Neil Donell provided both vocal backing and impressive guitar work. Chicago showcased their musical talent with a series of solos that highlighted the virtuosity of their lineup. Lee Loughnane on trumpet and saxophonist Ray Herrmann delivered standout solos, adding a rich layer of texture to the evening’s soundscape. Drummer Ramon Yslas also dabbled in the bongos, introducing a unique, percussive twist.
The energy continued to grow as Chicago navigated through the remainder of their set, which came with high-energy rock along with slow jazz, such as “Hard to Say I’m Sorry”. Going into this track, Lamm requested the audience to raise their flashlights creating a mesmerizing ocean of lights through the venue. The audience swayed along to the beautiful piano and harmonizing vocals.
As the set was reaching its end, the energy of the fans continued to grow, everyone on their feet for Chicago’s last few songs. Everyone sang in unison as the band went into their biggest hit, “If You Leave Now”. They set a high bar for the remainder of the evening, being a perfect opening act that left the crowd hungry for more.
Earth Wind & Fire
The sun had set and the crowd was still buzzing with excitement, ready for an unforgettable night with Earth Wind & Fire. A ten-minute countdown on the giant screens had fans on the edge of their seats. The lights dimmed as the final seconds ticked away. The anticipation was palpable as the audience prepared themselves for the musical magic about to begin. As all of the members took their spots on stage, bright purple lights created silhouettes of each one that made the crowd deafening in cheers. From the moment they launched into their set, the band explored a plethora of instruments. They weaved together intricate melodies that showcased their signature blend of funk, soul, and jazz.
The first major highlight of the evening came with the track “Devotion.” As the song’s infectious groove took hold, the audience responded by lifting their flashlights in unison, creating a sea of shimmering lights. This perfectly set the tone for an evening of collective joy and celebration. Lead singer Philip Bailey continued to astonish throughout the night with his remarkable vocal range, hitting impressive high notes that left the audience in awe. He continued to show off his skill in every song for the remainder of their set. His dynamic performance was a testament to the band’s decades of commitment to delivering a high-caliber show.
As Earth Wind & Fire took the audience on a journey through their extensive discography, they seamlessly transitioned between decades of hits. Classics like “Reasons” and “Fantasy” were delivered with harmonies throughout and were nothing short of beautiful, elevating each song to new heights.
The band then prepared to perform their greatest hits. The deep, synthetic vocals of “Let’s Groove” created a groovy energy that was nothing short of infectious. Every fan was swaying and singing along, being sent right back to the ‘80s. When it was followed by the opening notes of “September”, the audience’s excitement reached its peak. The band played several extra verses of their iconic hit, allowing the crowd to revel as long as they could during their timeless anthem. As the band concluded their main set, the audience began to shuffle out. Many began running back to their seats when the familiar introduction trumpets of “In The Stone” began to play. Chicago and Earth Wind & Fire came together for a spectacular six-song encore. The two bands performed several of each of their classics together, such as “Free” and “Sing a Song”. They continued with “Got to Get You Into My Life,” originally by The Beatles. The encore was a fitting end to a night of extraordinary music, showcasing the mutual respect between the two legendary bands.
Photos by The Pit Magazine photographer Sevauna Photography in St. Louis, Missouri. ©2024.
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