Well, here’s something you don’t see every day – a Billy Idol concert performed in front of the iconic Hoover Dam in the US.
Why don’t you see this every day? Because no one has ever performed a concert in front of the Hoover Dam before. Not me, not you, and certainly not Billy Idol.
Yet when Idol was asked if he’d like the opportunity to put on a show-stopping concert in front of the iconic structure, he seized the chance with both hands. In fact, in his own words, he said “I jumped at it”.
So, it’ll probably come as no surprise to you then, that Billy Idol: State Line – Live at Hoover Dam is exactly what it says in the title. This is a music concert-film about Idol’s milestone gig at the Hoover Dam.
But not just one gig – two! Well, sort of.
The first set is a short (and I mean short) warm-up gig, where Idol is joined by guitarist Steve Stevens. Idol and Stevens jam directly in front of the dam, belting out a few hits to get a feel for the acoustics.
It’s a bit bizarre, it’s kind of camp, and I’m all here for it. I’m just sad it lasts mere minutes.
However, the second set is the real meat in this sandwich. Idol takes to a heli-pad, which overlooks the dam, and performs an intimate gig to 250 select fans.
This set features all of his hits, ranging from Cradle of Love, Hot in the City, and Dancing with Myself, to Rebel Yell, Eyes Without a Face, and of course, White Wedding. Joining Idol on stage are a selection of guests including The Kills’ Alison Mosshart, former Sex Pistols guitarist Steve Jones, and No Doubt bassist Tony Kanal.
Of course, throughout the entirety of this musical extravaganza, one question persists: why is Billy Idol (or anyone for that matter) performing a concert in front of the Hoover Dam? Is the Hoover Dam tourist board trying to drum up business?!
Well, I can’t tell you the answer to that question, because frankly, I don’t know, nor do I particularly care. What I can tell you, is Mr. Idol performs a ruddy good set, which is fun to watch, and no one rocks a leather jacket better than him.
Well, maybe Alice Cooper, but it’s up for debate.
Either way, what you get with Billy Idol: State Line – Live at Hoover Dam is a beautifully shot, well-stage, expertly performed gig directed by George Scott and Vincent Adam Paul. The 250 guests who got to experience the set live, really got something special, and to watch Idol, his backing singers, musicians, and guests perform on the Nevada/Arizona state line really is something to see.
As for those of us not on the guest list, we now have the opportunity to watch the music concert-film in the cinema, or via home video. Billy Idol: State Line – Live at Hoover Dam will be appearing in UK cinemas for ONE NIGHT ONLY on Tuesday 14th November, and if you can’t make that screening, the concert will also be available in the UK on DVD, Blu-ray, and digital platforms from Monday 11th December.
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Thank you for taking the time to read this review on It’s A Stampede!. For more reviews, check out the recommended reads below.
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