Review and Photography by Chris Joles
9/14/2012
University of Maine, Orono, at The Field House
Disclaimer – I am a photographer. My long time reviewer was unable to attend the show, please bear with me while I share my impressions of the event as seen through my camera lens.
UMaine’s Field House was a Friday night’s dream-come-true for a few hundred ecstatic young women when the All-American Rejects tour rolled onto campus on the second night of their co-headlining tour with Boys Like Girls and opener, The Ready Set. I must admit this show was entertaining not only musically, but because the average concert goer is the same age as my daughter, this was a chance to see what this age group thinks is a good time. Since I was photographing the show, I had the opportunity to chat with the crowd on the barrier, one of those being a close friend of my daughter. When I asked Katie and her group of friends what they were looking forward to seeing they replied, “Everything” and screamed.
The night was full of luck and started by me taking a wrong turn heading to the restroom, giving me an opportunity to chat briefly with AAR guitarist, Nick Wheeler. Nick was very personable and shared that the tour had gotten off to a great start at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom in New Hampshire the previous night.
AAR took the stage with the audience fully committed and ready for the second act. Opening with a fan favorite, “Dirty Little Secret,” they followed with “Beekeeper.” Lead singer, Tyson Ritter, strutted suggestively about the stage stopping long enough to connect with individuals in the crowd. Each girl he made eye contact with screamed for more. While this may date myself, watching Tyson work the crowd reminded me of watching a young Bono work a crowd into a complete frenzy. Tyson shared his 4th grade academic knowledge, obtained while doing a book report, and listed Maine’s exports of potatoes and blueberries although he was stymied by the pronunciation of Orono, UMaine’s hometown. This, however, didn’t faze the crowd and the show roared on.
Back to the music, AAR’s alternative/rock/power-pop performance was high energy, fueled by pounding drums, driving bass and guitars. Nick Wheeler’s guitar work had an 80’s retro feel, with characteristics of The Edge’s jangling guitar, building each song until it lets loose. I was equally impressed by Mike Kennerty’s ability to play guitar flawlessly, while Energizer Bunnying the scope of the stage. All in all this band demonstrated showmanship, crowd interaction, and varied, but solid, musical talent. They kept the crowd’s energy going for each and every song. Wrapping up the show with “Gives U Hell,” the crowd was happy and satisfied.
Being the photographer for the show, I had the chance to speak with Nick Wheeler again as he came off stage. I asked him about his musical influences and he shared the names of several 80’s icons including Phil Collins, Def Leppard, Richie Sambora and he even reached farther back in history mentioning Queen. When I expressed the resemblance in his stage presence and his playing style to that of The Edge, he seemed genuinely flattered. Let me just say, one of the coolest things about my access as photographer is when I get to meet the artists and find out that they are down to earth and sincere. Thank you Nick for chatting with me.
Meet The All American Rejects:
Nick Wheeler (guitar)
Tyson Ritter (vocals/bass)
Mike Kennerty (guitar)
Chris Gaylor (drums)
Set List:
Dirty Little Secret ~ Beekeeper’s Daughter ~ My Paper Heart ~ I Wanna ~ Walk Over Me ~ Swing Swing ~ Kids In The Street ~ Mona Lisa ~ It Ends Tonight ~ Move Along ~ Heartbeat Slowing Down ~ Gives You Hell