I had the chance to see the current version of Foreigner twice recently, one at my company’s convention and also with the United in Rock tour at Dodge Theatre here in Phoenix Arizona. I was very impressed with both shows, these guys still can bring it. Actually, I felt bad for Styx. Foreigner took the stage after a solid Kansas set and rocked the crowd so much that it seemed that they were too tired to react to the strong show that Styx put on. I guess at this age demographic, it pays to be the early Band instead of the headliner.

The addition of Kelly Hansen was a stroke of genius for guitarist, and only remaining original member, Mick Jones. Its rarely very popular when a band replaces a legend like Lou Gramm, or as Boston is facing adding former Stryper singer Michael Sweet to replace the late Brad Delp. However, Hansen is more than up to the challenge. He sings all of the classic Foreigner songs with power and finesse, and even nails many of Gramm’s vocal nuances. He actually sings these songs with enough respect that if you didn’t know better would think that they are his own. Hansen was strong back in the hair band days with Hurricane, I remember seeing them open for AC/DC in the sweltering heat of Compton Terrace back in the 80s. But fronting a band in the classic rock genre seems to be a better match for him.

The rest of the band is equally impressive. With the addition of ex-Dokken bassist Jeff Pilson, Thom Gimbel (keyboard, sax, guitar), and Michael Bluestein (keyboards), are blessed with a very strong group of backing vocalists. Along with drummer Jason Sutter, these guys are a very talented and energetic band who really seem to be enjoying themselves. Pilson was reported to have said that this is the best band that he has ever been in, and watching them it is evident. Actually, the weakest link in the band is Jones. Although he has never been noted as being a great lead player, you give him a pass knowing that he is the mastermind behind all of these great songs.

If you get the chance to catch them on tour in support of the new material on their new cd Cant Slow Down, do it! It will take you back to the good old arena rock days.