January 10th was the day one of my music heroes died. Neil Peart’s lyrics and percussive prowess were indelible in my memory as long as I could remember. Rush was the soundtrack for my youth. So it was on this day that the band Enuff Z’Nuff played at Warehouse Live.
This is a band much different than Rush yet I knew a few of their songs and was looking forward to seeing them live. When we got to the venue the first thing I noticed was that they had a DJ. And, this DJ played Rush on constant rotation throughout the night between the bands. It was truly therapy for a few of us at the show and lifted the spirits.
Enuff Z’Nuff has gone through several lineup changes over the years but founding member Chip Z’Nuff is still leading the way now singing in front and center with a strong supporting cast. Alex Kane is back with the band after having left originally in 88′. He brought not only some great guitar playing but much needed energy to the stage. When this band originally had their heyday I was aware of songs like Fly High Michelle but at that time I was deeply immersed in my thrash years and pre-grunge. I did however admire their blend of Cheap Trick and melodic qualities of the Beatles which set them apart from their peers. It was obvious these guys knew how to craft a strong song.
They started the show strong with The World is a Gutter. Chips banter between songs was hilarious and the looseness fit the evening. Alex gave me a nod noticing I was wearing a Moving Pictures tour shirt. Other highlights of the show were Baby Loves You and of course Fly High Michelle. Chip even did a bass solo with day gloves strings and played some guitar at least with his right hand. They finished with a great version of New Thing and proved they still have some Choo Choo in their engine. We got to meet both Alex and Chip afterwards who were very personable and cool. Chip told us a story about seeing Rush in Chicago back during the Caress of Steel tour. Although the evening started somber I left with a big smile on my face thanks to Chip and the boys.
