Review by Bob Mcdo
Photos by Jim LaValley
Galleries: Dropkick Murphy’s, Godsmack, Madison Rising, Tat Holler, Tony Orlando
Vets Rock 2016 made their annual stop on veteran’s day November 11, 2016 with the master of ceremonies, Tony Orlando hosting the event. The show started right on time and as the lights started to dim, the sound of bagpipes began to fill the room led by members of the Air-force. Tony Orlando introduced America’s Got Talent’s season 9 finalist, Mara Justine to perform a stunning rendition of “God Bless America”.
Tony Orlando was next on stage and although his songs such as “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” and “Coming to America” are timeless, his personality stole the show. Tony has such a passion for America and the men & women of the military that it bleeds through as he talks about friendships he’s accumulated over his lengthy career. Tony also spoke about the “Wall that heals” which is a one and a half scale model of the Vietnam War memorial that was on display for everyone in the parking lot at Mohegan Sun. Inspirational to say the least!
As Tony and his band played their set, they finished up by including members from the legendary 1960’s band “The Rascals”. They played some famous hits such as “Groovin” and “Good Love” and then added a surprise ending to the set by playing “Whole lot of love” by Led Zeppelin. The feeling from the crowd was electric as Tony recalled the many veterans he had met over his lifetime and the stories they shared.
Once the previous band’s equipment was dismantled and the next band was on stage and ready to start, Tony would introduce them with enthusiasm.
Tat Holler & Madison Rising were both very powerful and continued to play sets that had people in the audience pumping their fists. The sound seemingly grew louder with each band as they each played several songs for the many members of the military who were on hand to take in the evening of music. There were people both young & old and families with children who seemed to be having as much fun as the adults.
As the night went on God Smack was next to perform and they didn’t let off the gas. The intensity and drive in their hard rock music was felt by all. People who had remained initially in their seats, now began to fill the isles with fists raised and pumping.
Last to headline were the Dropkick Murphy’s which everyone seemed to be waiting to hear. Tony Orlando came to the stage with Chris Angel’s brother to let him introduce the Dropkick Murphy’s.
Ken Casey of the Dropkick’s spoke about how much our veterans mean to us and in a recent interview with WTNH said, “They are the first ones to thank you, when they’re the ones that deserve the thank you”. The Dropkick Murphy’s delivered a highly fueled set starting with their popular song “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” and then got the crowd screaming one of their recent song “Blood” which has a strong backbone to it that makes you feel like you can “Go to battle” with a song like that leading you forward. Dropkick Murphy’s then went into performing some well-known covers for the rest of their set, such as “Jailbreak”, “Just What I Needed”, “Barbara O’Riley”, “The Kids are Alright”, and “Taking Care of Business”.
Overall it was a fantastic night of music from multiple genres and it looked like the packed house enjoyed every moment of it. Every band was professional and appeared to appreciate the opportunity to perform on such a special day for the men & women who have protected us for so many years without asking for anything but respect in return. Being at Mohegan Sun for the show was great but to be surrounded by so many that served in our military was truly my honor and like many others I was humbled by their presence. Tony Orlando has hosted many such events and I would certainly encourage others to take part anytime these types of events take place!
Vets Rock 2016 – The Mohegan Sun Arena – CT
