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“The Grand Illusion” has maximum guitar riffage, yet it is the grand vocals of DeYoung that have, then as well as now, given that song its personality.  Same can be said for “Rockin’ the Paradise” and even “Mr. Roboto.”  When DeYoung adds the one-two punch of his keys and his pipes is when he is at his best.  “Lorelei” has that damn musical intro, and then that voice, and then that guitar… a true masterpiece of Seventies rock and roll.  “Come Sail Away” is his most beloved tune and, once again, it is the piano, the voice and then the massive guitars that send this through the roof.  “Suite Madame Blue” is another example, as the song drifts into the keyboard abyss before being resurrected by electric guitars and then the chant of “America…” 

On this performance, all eras of Styx music comes alive, as close to the original as is physically possible in the present day.  Only Tommy Shaw and James Young being in tow would make this performance more authentic. 

Of course, DeYoung has his softer side included in the show.  “Lady,” “Babe” and “The Best of Times” all make you want to grab yer girl and slow dance with her on the gymnasium floor after the high school football game.  His love songs are part of his DNA, as Dennis expresses his soft side with the same passion that he expresses his other feelings.  “Show Me the Way” is another emotional moment, as the song is stripped down to the core and delivered with raw emotion. 

At the end of the day, both DeYoung and his band are energetic, vibrant and colorful.  While the CD is an excellent display of talent, the visual aspects of the show and the unique stage design make the DVD or Blu-ray the chosen medium to experience this event.  Hell, buy them both, you won’t be disappointed.  

The bottom line is that Dennis DeYoung is in fine voice, a natural born showman and has a strong desire, even after all that has happened, to share his music with us.  One can tell he wants to be where he is and doing what he is doing.  He may not be in the band Styx anymore, but rest assured, he is the band Styx. 

Tracks
The Grand Illusion
Lady 
Lorelei
Blue Collar Man
Show Me The Way
Mr. Roboto
Crystal Ball
Don't Let It End
Too Much Time On My Hands
Desert Moon
Babe
Foolin’ Yourself
Suite Madame Blue
The Best Of Times
Renegade
Come Sail Away

MPEG-4 AVC Video   1080i / 29,970 fps / 16:9 
LPCM Audio              4608 kbps       2.0 / 96 kHz 

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