LIVE REVIEWS + PHOTOS: Hollywood Vampires in Boston, MA (07.28.23)
The Boch Center in Boston was electrified on Friday night as the Hollywood Vampires took the stage, delivering a jaw-dropping performance that will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of everyone fortunate enough to attend. This all-star rock supergroup, consisting of Alice Cooper, Johnny Depp, and Joe Perry (among other notables) delivered a show that was nothing short of sensational.
This was a makeup show from a previously postponed show earlier this year, when Depp sustained a painful ankle injury that kept him from performing for certain dates on the tour. Fortunately, he seemed like himself and moved around well, even though he mostly kept to his side of the stage.
From the moment the lights dimmed, anticipation was palpable among the diverse crowd that had gathered to witness this iconic ensemble of musicians. As the band members made their grand entrance, the cheers and applause echoed throughout the venue, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
The night kicked off with a mesmerizing rendition of “I Want My Now,” immediately showcasing the band’s undeniable chemistry and showmanship. Alice Cooper, ever the consummate performer, commanded the stage with his signature theatricality, donning an array of elaborate costumes and captivating the audience with his hauntingly powerful vocals.
Johnny Depp proved he was more than just a Hollywood A-lister; his guitar skills were on full display, and he effortlessly blended with the seasoned rock veterans around him. Joe Perry, a rock legend in his own right, shredded through the night with incredible precision and style, cementing his status as one of the greatest guitarists in history.
The setlist was a harmonious mix of original tracks and well-curated covers, paying tribute to some of rock’s fallen stars, such as David Bowie and Jeff Beck. Highlights included soulful renditions of “Heroes” and “Beck’s Bolero”, as well as covers of Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way”, The Door’s “Five To One/Break On Through(To The Other Side)” as well Alice Cooper’s own “I’m Eighteen”, closing out with an encore of “School’s Out” with snippets of “Another Brick in the Wall”.
The visual spectacle accompanying the music was nothing short of breathtaking. Striking lighting, mesmerizing projections, and an impressively huge set of fangs enhanced the overall experience and added a layer of theatricality to the performance that Alice Cooper fans have come to expect. There was even a few moments of theatrical comic relief when Alice Cooper acted out his slow walk, donning his cane in stride, only to have the same bit mocked by Johnny Depp. All in good fun, and a wild performance (as was expected) from this collection of stellar musicians. The energy and passion displayed by this rock powerhouse were unparalleled, making for a show that transcended time and genre, uniting fans young and old in a mutual love for classic rock.
Max Cross can be found online at https://www.facebook.com/maxcrossphoto
