Photos + Review By: Ava Butera
On the second night of the famed British rock outfit, The Struts’ stop at the House of Blues in Chicago, I had the pleasure not only to finally witness the band live but also photograph their incredible set. When I lived in Miami, I almost saw The Struts multiple times — each attempt not working out in the end. However, this time, I convinced myself that I would not miss The Struts again, in that I heard great things about the band in a live setting. Not to mention me loving their new release, YOUNG&DANGEROUS, and wanting to hear new tracks such as “Body Talks” and “Primadonna Like Me” live — both songs were delivered with infectious energy by lead singer, Luke Spiller. Spiller possesses the gift and talent of amazing stage presence. Not many frontmen or women can control a crowd or work a camera — for that matter. I’ve attended plenty a show where artists I love just stand and play their instrument, which again, I have no problem with. But Spiller really puts on a show for the crowd, with of course the help of bandmates Jed Elliott, Adam Slack, and Gethin Davies.
After a jam-packed set put on by openers, The Glorious Sons, the crowd was already buzzing for the headliner to take the stage. As I overheard the chatter amongst the crowd, many attending last night’s sold out show were present at Friday’s sold out show as well, showing The Struts’ dedicated fans. As the crowd sang UK band, Blur’s song, “Song 2” from the top of their lungs together, the lights dimmed and the backlights turned on — one by one, The Struts graced the stage in a fashion I would have imagined Queen or David Bowie would utilize, something like true rockstars.
The Struts opened with “Primadonna Like Me”– a fun and energetic song. By the time the band transitioned into “Body Talks” the crowd was intensely jumping up and down, so intense in fact, that I had trouble photographing due to the floor shaking (definitely a pet peeve of mine at The House of Blues, since the venue is located on the second floor). However, I soon forgot my grievances agains the House of Blues when the band began playing old favorite, “Kiss This”. Before I knew it I could hardly focus on my job because I was singing and truly enjoying myself!
After I shuffled out of the photo pit, I hung out near the barricade, and still close enough to the stage that I could witness the entire show. For the duration of the show, I sat back in awe of the band’s presence and true musicianship. Mixing in one of my favorite songs, “One Night Only” as an anthemic take on the song as well as a cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing In The Dark” and bringing a fan up on stage to relish in the energetic song with Luke, I was definitely blown away.
If you’re a photographer, writer, or just a straight up concert attendee, you need to catch The Struts on The Body Talks Tour! Not only do they put on a phenomenal show, but their music rocks!
The Glorious Sons:
The Struts:
Keep up with The Struts // @thestruts (Twitter + Instagram)
