Cheap Trick Live at Mystic Lake

As the announcement said before they hit the stage,

“Ladies and Gentleman, introducing the best F@&king band ever, Cheap Trick.”

When telling someone that you are going to see a Cheap Trick show, the most common response is “I’ve seen them before.” And why not? They have played over 5,000 shows since forming in 1973.

They have had their ups and downs throughout their 46-year career, including line up changes, corporate-caused creative limitations, and record company lawsuits. Yet they have remained one of the world’s most sought after artists, leading to a 2016 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame.

Vocalist Robin Zander, bassist Tom Petersson, drummer Daxx Nielsen, rhythm guitarist Robin Tayor, and legendary guitar god Rick Nielsen took to the stage at Mystic Lake Casino to an invigorated crowd that spanned generations. Their support showed why the music of Cheap Trick has become a representation of rock and roll Americana.

Opening with “Hello There,” they blasted through hit after hit from their over forty gold and platinum awards. Their ageless energy made it easy to understand how they have continued to sell over 20 million albums.

One of the many highlights was bassist Tom Petersson took the mic while playing Velvet Undergrounds I’m Waiting For The man on his 12-string bass.

Rick Nielsen wandered the stage throughout the show, insisting that everyone in the first few rows would take home a guitar pick (or maybe even a dozen) as he peppered the crowd between monstrous guitar solos. Amazingly, a different guitar was played for each of the eighteen songs on the setlist.

Before leaving the stage, Rick promised another chance to see the rock and roll icons for a summer return to Minnesota. Their performance at Mystic Lake showed that they still have a lot left to offer.

Setlist
Hello There
Big Eyes
He’s a Whore
Elo Kiddies
On Top of the World
Speak Now
She’s Tight
Ain’t That a Shame
Need Your Love
You Got It Going On
Stop This Game
Waitin’ for the Man
The Flame
I Want You to Want Me
Dream Police
Never Had A Lot to Lose
Surrender
Goodnight