The official ‘Stadium’ tour, consisting of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Poison, Def Leppard and Motley Crue rolled through Los Angeles. Kicking ass at the brand new SoFi Stadium. One of the most massive venues in the world.
The day began with a tight set from Classless Act. An upcoming hard rock band that will hopefully fly the flag for future generations to come. Joan Jett followed with her Blackhearts. But the venue didn’t really fill up until Poison took the stage. Their 50 minute set set the standard for the evening. Playing with a raw, youthful energy that can be tracked back to the Sunset Strip, the place of origin. Motley Crue played in the same veign. But it was innovators Def Leppard that claimed the evening.
Playing with passion, accuracy and intensity. Def Leppard let Los Angeles know that they are the kings. Their 17 song set list fired up the stadium to the max. The opening ‘Take What You Want’ and ‘Let It Go’ slammed on another level. Firing on all cylinders, Def Leppard were saying ‘WE’RE HERE!’ And they never let up. Following with ‘Animal,’ the crowd went insane. The signature ‘Foolin” came next before ‘Armageddon It.’
The Lep then indulged in their new album ‘Diamond Star Halos’ with the new single ‘Kick.’ Which sounded way better live. Before going into their first number one hit ‘Love Bites’ off of ‘Hysteria.’ ‘Euphoria”s ‘Promises’ followed. The band then went to the front of the stage runway to perform a couple of ballads. ‘Diamond Star Halo”s ‘This Guitar’ followed by the legendary ‘Two Steps Behind.’ The tracks created an intimate atmosphere. Even in the biggest of venues.
The energy was brought back up with the signature ‘Rocket.’ Before going into ‘Headed for a Heartbreak.’ The original power ballad. ‘Switch 625’ followed in fashion. As is tradition. Before finishing out with the typical big hit run: ‘Hysteria,’ ‘Pour Some Sugar On Me,’ ‘Rock of Ages’ and ‘Photograph.’
All in all it was a set heavy on nostalgia. And while Def Leppard aren’t moving around quite like they used to. They’re certainly still playing with plenty of passion and energy. It’s simply emoted out of their style. I’ve read a number of blog posts reflecting on the Stadium Tour over the summer. And from what I saw I was least excited for Def Leppard. Despite them being the only major act I haven’t seen before. But they came out and killed it. Stole the night and left me wanting more. Will have to absolutely catch them on a solo headlining tour in the near future.
