Photos and Review by Colleen Goyer
Galleries: Toto, Christopher Cross, The Romantics
The torrential downpours at the Boston seaport the other night could not dampen the
energy or performance of Toto and their fellow tour bands at the Leader Bank Pavillion.
The show started with, The Romantics, performing classics like “What I like about you”
and “Talking in your sleep”. Next up was Christopher Cross with hits, “Sailing”, “Ride
like the Wind” and the theme from the movie Arthur.
Finally, it was Toto’s turn to come to the stage, lead by legendary guitarist Steve
Lukather, the band took the night up a couple notches. Joined by Joseph Williams, the
two shared lead vocals. Although Lukather is the only remaining original member
touring, 2026 incudes a group of incredible musicians like Williams who have been in
the band for a significant length of time. Keith Carlock who has been with Steely Dan
and John Mayer for tours has joined the tour for the summer. John Pierce on bass
guitar and two amazing keyboardist, Dennis Atlas and Rai Thistlethwayte, all of whom
performed incredible solos and performed the Toto catalogue as if they had been with
the group since the start. Dennis also took vocal duties at times including one as the
lead and his keyboard solos were phenomenal. Warren Ham filled out the remaining
instruments, sax, percussion, whatever was needed basically.
Songs included, “Hold the Line”, “Georgy Porgy” and of course “Africa”. Just about
every song featured Lukather guitar solos, each one perfectly fitting the song and
showing why he is considered one of the best guitarists of his time.
Toto is a rock band that has continued with new members that maintain the bands
performance level. The tour continues through the summer. Definitely a great band to
see live!