Styx – Live at Place Bell, Laval, Quebec – May 21, 2024

All photos by Ken Vantour

This will be a 3 part review. The concert was attended by Ken Vantour and his daughter Hannah and her boyfriend, Sam, and Paul Eastwood. The review features perspectives from Ken, Paul and Hannah and Sam

WELCOME TO THE GRAND ILLUSION

By Ken Vantour

A Styx concert is always a special occasion. My first time was the Kilroy Was Here tour in Ottawa. The last time was with Tesla and Joan Jett in Laval. This time, Laval again, but it’s extra special. I’m bringing my daughter, Hannah, and her boyfriend, Sam. Hannah’s name was inspired from the song Sing For The Day.

“Hannah you’re with me in spirit wherever I go
To the ends of the earth and all points between high and low”

Styx was the first rock band I ever truly loved, and I found it fitting to use their lyrics in naming my first child. Little did I know that my years of listening to Styx while she was around would pay off with her love for the band as well.

The last time I spoke with Lawrence Gowan, I asked him if he would be able to somehow slip it into the setlist. He told me he loves the song and would try. Alas, it wasn’t to be, but that didn’t take away from the concert in any way.

Although I didn’t get to sit with Hannah and Sam for the show, I could practically see the smiles on their faces when the band played their favourite songs.

When you go to a Styx concert, you pretty much know what to expect. Although the band has a catalog of 17 albums to choose, there are so many ‘must-play’ songs that it’s difficult to change the set up too much from tour to tour. There would be rioting in the streets of Laval if they didn’t play Renegade, Grand Illusion, Come Sail Away, Blue Collar Man, Suite Madam Blue…the list goes on and on.

Because I had interviewed the Canadian keyboardist/pianist/vocalist, Lawrence Gowan a month or so ago, I was able to score a photo pass, allowing me to snap shots mere feet from the band. I, of course, positioned myself in front of guitarist/vocalist Tommy Shaw’s mic stand. Tommy Shaw is easily in my top 3 most influential musicians of all time, but on Tuesday night, he was the clear #1. This man’s songs have helped me through some tough times, brought smiles to my face countless times, and I still get chills when I listen to his guitar solo in Crystal Ball, or his vocals in Man In The Wilderness. As I mentioned in a review of Styx’ most recent album Crash Of The Crown, Tommy Shaw could harmonize with a fart, and make it sound like Styx.

As the Place Bell lights dimmed and the band made their way to their positions on stage, the near sold out crowd, (I know it was a ‘near’ sellout because the seat next to us was empty, That was the only empty one I saw.) was deafening. If you’ve never seen a show in Laval or Montreal, I highly recommend it. The crowds in La Belle Province are LOUD, and they love their Styx…and every band, for that matter.

The Grand Illusion kicked off their set, and the 6 Stygians were in fine form from the get go. Guitarists Shaw, James ‘JY’ Young, and Will Evankovich, newest member, bassist and Lawrence’s brother, Terry Gowan, and drummer extraordinaire, Todd Sucherman got the party rolling as Lawrence belted out the classic from 1977’s album of the same name. It was evident from the get go that Styx brought their A-game. Wonderful vocals, intricate guitar solos, especially Shaw’s wah induced ripper from the riser.

Down in the photo pit, as the photographers began jockeying for position, seemingly focused on the Canadians in the band, this ‘photographer’ forgot that he had a job to do for a minute. As the opening keyboard ‘riff’ of Too Much Time On My Hands, from 1981’s Paradise Theatre, rattled rib cages, I found myself gawking at Shaw as he hit the opening guitar chords on a gorgeous Gibson Explorer. As much as I wanted to preserve this moment in photos, I could only stop and stare at this master musician playing one of my all time favourite songs. I became a fan boy, forgetting about my camera, until one of the other photographers, Lily, nudged me out of my daydream. In case you’re wondering, I did get my pics of King Shaw and his explorer, while singing along…

“I’m a jet fuel genius

I can solve the world’s problems

Without even trying”

On this night, in Laval, Quebec, he certainly did solve the problems of the near 10,000 in attendance, and watching him play, it didn’t look like he was even trying. A natural, musical genius. (Can you tell I’m a fan?)

Before Gowan began the gorgeous piano line of, Lady, from 1973’s Styx II, he introduced, in French, founding member and bassist, Chuck Panozzo, to join the band. This is one of the two songs Hannah was looking forward to. I found myself looking up to section 215, hoping to catch a glimpse of her smile. I think I saw it. Let me explain something that kind of blew me away. Watching 5 guys walk up to their respective mics at the same time to belt out the chorus of this classic, with perfect harmonies, is a sight and sound to behold. And it happened often throughout the show. What an incredible sound.

As Lorelei, from 1975’s Equinox started, and the photographers were led away from the pit, I gave a small nod to Tommy. I’m sure he didn’t see me, but I like to think he did. Back at my seat, JY took to the mic to introduce his signature piece, Miss America, also from The Grand Illusion. At 74 years of age, Young still has the snarl and growl to his voice that made so many early Styx songs rock.

Crash of the Crown, Suite Madam Blue, Rockin’ The Paradise, and Blue Collar Man set up the Canadian dude’s signature piece, which has become Styxified in the last few years. Tommy on mandolin and Lawrence on Piano singing A Criminal Mind. This was Gowan’s biggest hit, was released in 1985 and was reborn as a Styx song in the 2000s. It’s a song that is usually only played during the Canadian gigs, and some northern states. Not surprisingly, A Criminal Mind received perhaps the biggest crowd roar of the evening.

Fooling Yourself, The Best Of Times, an amazing rendition of Lawrence’s solo piano piece, Khedive, from 2017’s The Mission, which segued perfectly into Lost at Sea, and the crowd favourite Come Sail Away wrapped up the set.

Now, if you’re a Styx fan, you’ve no doubt seen the setlists and realized they’ve brought back a, what’s the word?, controversial? song in their encores. Mr. Roboto is a song that has long divided diehard followers of the band. From 1983’s Kilroy Was Here, the concept and lyrics threw some off, including Tommy Shaw, according to many articles I have read. However, in recent years, Roboto has been the opening tune of the encores, to mixed reviews. This song was never one of my favourite Styx songs, but I must admit…it’s different live. Sucherman’s drumming beefs up the song, making it much heavier. The guitars are louder in the mix, and Lawrence Gowan performs it in a way that makes it a little less, well, robotic. The crowd in Laval ate it up, and it led into perhaps the most popular song in the Styx repertoire.

When Tommy Shaw begins the a cappella intro to Renegade, not only do you know the show is coming to an end, but you know you’re about to get your face blown off one last time. The five part harmonies, the blistering lead guitar, and Sucherman’s drumming made this the perfect ending to perfect night. Seriously, this dude is one of the best in the business. Original drummer John Panozzo laid down some serious grooves in the 70’s and 80’s, and his drumming was perfect for the band. Sucherman takes those grooves, adds his own elements to them and seems to make every song a five minute drum solo, while not losing the feel. He’s an absolute beast behind the kit.

The Bottom Line

This was a perfect concert. The sound was incredible with every instrument shining through, aside from a quiet guitar solo from JY in Renegade, which was quickly adjusted. The Canadian contingent of the band, Lawrence and Terry Gowan, had energy and smiles to spare. They truly love what they are doing, and it is infectious for the crowd. Before the show, I was wondering why the band needed a third guitar player, but it was soon evident that Will Evankovich is a solid addition to the band. He didn’t do any solos, but his playing made the guitar sound even heavier and more powerful. Sucherman, as previously mentioned, is a monster worth the price of admission. JY is still JY. His snarling vocals on his one and only lead vocal track was exactly what you’d expect, and his solos were, for the most part, spot on. And finally, Tommy Shaw! What can you say about this guy? He’s an absolute legend, and at the tender age of 70, his voice sounds like a 30 year-old. His guitar playing, and sound, were spot on. He is a master entertainer, songwriter, musician and vocalist.

It was a perfect show and left everyone wanting MORE. And although I didn’t get a guitar pick and they didn’t play Crystal Ball, it will remain an unforgettable evening. There is no way anyone in Place Bell could have been unhappy with the show they witnessed on March 21.

Rockin’ The Paradise

By Paul Eastwood

Styx returned to Laval to play a packed Place Bell on Tuesday night for one of several Canadian shows.

Opening act David Myles played a solid set and won over the crowd with his French repartee.

Styx and Quebec is a perfect combination. Indeed, some of their earliest success was in La Belle Province.

From the opening notes of The Grand Illusion the mood was set for what was going to be an amazing night. Lawrence Gowan is a phenomenal frontman, his voice and energy showing no sign of decline. His keyboard abilities are top-notch, and were showcased during crowd favourites such as Come Sail Away, Lady, and his own composition, Criminal Mind. His infectious joy is quite evident and extremely well received by the appreciative crowd. A new addition to the band, and a second Canadian, is Terry Gowan on bass and backing vocals.

Fans of Let’s Rock will be aware of Tommy Shaw’s legendary status among the staff writers. His voice and playing also defy time, and he flawlessly added his key songs such as Blue Collar Man and the final number of the night, Renegade.

Original member James Young added one of my favourites , Miss America, and the band was joined by another founding member, Chuck Panozzo for a few songs.

The backbone of Styx is world class drummer Todd Sucherman. He is simply one of the best, and constantly left jaws on the floor.

A humourous moment occurred during band introductions when Gowan said in French, after praising Sucherman, that Todd didn’t have a clue what he was saying.

Overall, what else can you say? Styx is a legendary band playing hit after hit with perfect harmonies. A very enjoyable and entertaining show. Can’t wait til the next time!

The Best of Times

By Sam Chhoey (Hannah’s boyfriend)

Going to see Styx at Place Bell in Laval was an amazing experience. It was the first concert I’ve ever been to and it didn’t disappoint. Once the band came on and started playing, I had such a huge smile the whole time. One thing that I was surprised by was how loud everything was. Their voices were still as lively as the recordings. It was awesome! I’d definitely go see them again if I have a chance.

Setlist

The Grand Illusion

Too Much Time On My Hands

Lady

Lorelei

Miss America

Crash of the Crown

Suite Madam Blue

Rockin’ The Paradise

Blue Collar Man

A Criminal Mind

Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)