Concert Review
Tommy DeCarlo
Rudy Cardenas
Batavia Downs
Batavia, NY
Friday June 17, 2022
Review: Joseph Suto
Photos: Joseph Suto
It was a great kickoff to the Batavia Downs “Rockin’ At The Downs” concert series Friday evening. Tommy DeCarlo the lead singer of Boston and his band put on a clinic of how to pull off playing the music of Boston to perfection. Also on the bill was Rudy Cardenas who played the music of Journey utilizing the same backing band as DeCarlo.
DeCarlo has been playing many solo shows the past few years as Boston has been on a break following their 2017 run of shows. Joining DeCarlo were August Zadra on guitar and Mike Morales on drums. You may recognize them from Dennis DeYoung’s touring band. Also backing DeCarlo was the multi-talented Walter Ino who is the music director as well as keyboardist and guitarist. Rounding out the band were bassist Payton Velligan and Tommy DeCarlo Jr. on guitar.
The Boston catalog sounded refreshing to hear since the band itself hasn’t toured in five years as previously mentioned. DeCarlo was in fine voice during gems such as “More Than A Feeling”, “Amanda” and “Peace of Mind”.
Rudy Cardenas was a contestant on American Idol during season 6. He stood out for his portrayal of some Journey songs to which he continues to perform today. The cool thing was the band played a few rare tracks that even Journey never performs anymore. Sung by Walter Ino and Cardenas were “Feeling’ That Way/Anytime” and “Just the Same Way”. It was great to hear some different songs for once. Especially songs that Gregg Rolie was involved with.
This season marks the 5th year of concerts on the famed racetrack (2020 was not held due to the pandemic). With a fantastic Friday night lineup that runs til mid August, the Downs on a Friday night is the place to be.
For more on this years lineup watch a short video click here
Set Lists
Tommy DeCarlo
Rock & Roll Band
Feelin’ Satisfied
Peace of Mind
Don’t Look Back
More Than a Feeling
Let Me Take You Home Tonight
Amanda
The Launch
Cool the Engines
Something About You
A Man I’ll Never Be
Hitch a Ride
Foreplay/Long Time
Encore
Party
Smokin’
Rudy Cardenas
Separate Ways
Be Good To Yourself
Lights
Send Her My Love
Lovin’ Touchin’ Squeezin’
Open Arms
Stone In Love
Any Way You Want It
Who’s Cryin Now
Feelin’ That Way/Anytime
Just The Same Way
Wheel In The Sky
Faithfully
Don’t Stop Believin’
