The Eagles at United Center in Chicago on March 14, 2018.
A “Peaceful Easy Feeling” coursed throughout the United Center on Wednesday, March 14 as Chicago rock fans were treated to an evening of endlessly enjoyable music, compliments of one of the best-selling bands in the business, The Eagles. James Dolan’s bluegrass-infused Americana group, JD & the Straight Shot warmed up the stage with a short set, highlighting material from their 2017 album, Good Luck and Good Night.
“Redemption Train” and “Moonlight” – the latter of which was heightened by a perfect, heartwarmingly pretty violin solo from Erin Slaver – made early appearances in JD & the Straight Shot’s performance, setting the tone for an evening of inviting bluesy rock music with a country twist. An old western vibe emanated from the Ballyhoo! stand-out “Perdition” as Marc Copley’s acoustic guitar provided a haunting accompaniment to Dolan’s lyrics of love and damnation.
JD & the Straight Shot opening for the Eagles at United Center in Chicago on March 14, 2018.
The Eagles took the stage in silhouettes singing – in perfect harmony – the intro to their rendition of Steve Young’s “Seven Bridges Road.” As the spotlights illuminated each band member, fans rose to their feet cheering the Grammy Award winning icons. Joe Walsh soon took the opportunity to introduce the group’s newest member Deacon Frey who, along with country superstar Vince Gill, is taking the baton from his father, founding member Glenn Frey who passed away in 2016.
Deacon Frey took the lead on the 1972 single “Take it Easy,” for a performance that felt like an enthusiastic encore though it was still very early in the night. The hits just kept coming with Don Henley singing “One of These Nights” from behind the drum kit. He then took center stage to reminisce about the first time The Eagles played Chicago at the Arie Crown Theater opening for Yes back in 1972, joking that the two bands’ styles were very different.
The Eagles at United Center in Chicago on March 14, 2018.
Impeccable songwriting has always been at the heart of The Eagles’ success as each composition reveals universal truths about the human condition while sweeping listeners away on a sunny sonic vacation. In the live setting, added layers emerge as fans are able to experience the unique delight of Walsh and Gill trading guitar licks and having fun with the music that means so much to so many.
The Eagle’s Chicago setlist had it all including “Witchy Woman,” “Lyin’ Eyes” and “Heartache Tonight.” A few of Walsh’s solo tracks – “Life’s Been Good,” “Rocky Mountain Way,” etc – were also highlighted throughout the night.
Classic music transcends the limits of age and genre. The Eagles have provided a soundtrack for generations of rock fans and with an unmatched catalog of timeless tracks, they will continue to do so for decades to come.
The Eagles and JD & The Straight Shot will continue to tour across North America throughout the Spring and beyond. Head over to Eagles.com for the full itinerary.
(Photos by Laurie Fanelli)