Previews and Reviews - The Lynyrd Skynyrd franchise

By Steve Chess
September 21, 2007

The Lynyrd Skynyrd franchise appears to be safe in the hands of its current trustees. From that day in 1977, when the band’s chartered plane crashed (on the way to a gig in Louisiana), Lynyrd Skynyrd’s personnel have been adjusted several times. Front man, Ronnie Van Zant and two other band members were killed in the plane crash that also severely injured five other band members. This prompted a tenyear hiatus while survivors did their physical and emotional rehab. It was rumored that the band, that had been so successful since 1970, had reached an end. The rumors were greatly exaggerated. Since the band reunited for a comeback tour in 1987, their multigenerational fan base has continued to grow exponentially. On Friday, September 14th, Lynyrd Skynyrd once again brought their traveling show to the Post Gazette Pavilion. With two surviving members (Gary Rossington /guitar and Billy Powell / Keyboards) and Ronnie Van Zant’s little brother Johnny fronting the band, Lynyrd Skynyrd played (gleefully) to a full house (and lawn). Mark Matejka (formerly of the Charlie
Daniels Band) and Rickey Medlocke filled out the “ 3 lead guitar” signature sound and bassist, Ean Evans did an excellent job maintaining the Skynyrd grooves and rhythm in conjunction with Michael Cartellone on drums. Carol Chase and Dale Krantz Rossington sang backup as a duo.

The first part of their set included the Skynyrd classics, “What’s Your Name,” “That Smell” and “Simple Kind Of Man,” after which, Johnny Van Zant pointed out (above the din of excited fans) that, after 7 years of nominations, Lynyrd Skynyrd had finally been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame (in 2006). He also expressed (at this time and throughout the show ) the band’s gratitude for their fans’ continued loyalty.

The band then entered into a medley of several Skynyrd hits. This included one verse each of; “The Needle & The Spoon,” “Curtis Lowe,” Gimme Back My Bullets” and Tuesday’s Gone.” Johnny Van Zant introduced “Red, White and Blue” as a tribute to American service men and women throughout history. The band performed the song with passion and enthusiasm while video of American GIs (in
various conflicts) was projected on the screen behind them (the band). During this song, Van Zant brandished a microphone stand wrapped in the Stars And Stripes.

Finishing the regular set with stand out classics “Gimme Three Steps,” “Call Me The Breeze” and “Sweet Home Alabama,” Lynyrd Skynyrd’s band members’ energy never seemed to wane…nor did the outstanding
musicianship. When they returned for their one-song encore, the band played the Rock anthem probably most associated with Lynyrd Skynyrd (Free Bird). The euphoria of the band and the audience seemed as one.

Opening for Lynyrd Skynyrd was Blue Oyster Cult. Leading the band were rhythm guitarist and lead vocalist, Eric Bloom and lead guitarist, Buck Dharma (both are original band members). A stand out in their
Rock heavy set was “Godzilla”, which featured a lot of creative guitar improvisation and solos by the new bassist, Rudy Sarzo and drummer, Jules Radino. Conservatory trained, Richie Castellano did multiple duty on
keyboards and guitar. The band seemed to transform into ethereal Prog-Rockers with the performance of their mega-hit, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper.” The harmonic blend of vocals on this song was outstanding.