Bravo for Squeeze, the fun-loving, great-sounding, English pop-rock quintet, led by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook. Squeeze performed for its audience at Saltair Saturday night, in a show suitable for the entire family. Although the crowd was somewhat small, the adoring fans loved the quality sound of the excellent vocals and lyrics.
During the first song, one of the lead vocalists turned the microphone toward the crowd, offering an opportunity for the crowd to display their musical talents.Two of the band members wore suits, while the other band members had yet another look. The drummer wore a T-shirt and jeans; the keyboard player wore black pants, a plaid shirt, and a black hat, while one of the vocalist/guitarists wore jeans and a black vest. Their friendly "guy-next-door" look and warm smiles added to the extreme likability of the multitalented performers.
Squeeze's songs were fun and upbeat; good dancing music.
The smoke from the dry ice drifted through the air, while the three vocalists stood near the front of the stage, strumming their guitars and tapping their feet to the beat of the music.
Although most of the songs were new to me, they now have a new fan. And the one song I did recognize also happens to be the band's biggest hit: "Tempted," with vocals by Paul Carrack, formerly of Ace. The No. 1 hit spent 11 weeks on the chart. Carrack's vocals were superb, and as he began to sing the song, the audience cheered in response. Some of the women fanned themselves and presence suggested they'd pass out any second.
Opening the evening for Squeeze was Over the Rhine, an artistic, poetic, and somewhat somber group. During the performance by Over The Rhine, the audience seemed very relaxed, and immersed in the tranquil sound of the lead singer's voice.
In the background was a half-burned candle, still burning on one of the speakers. Over The Rhine sang, "Circle of Quiet" from the "Patience" album, along with many other favorites.
The audience became more enthusiastic toward the end, and before the lead singer announced the last song, she quietly asked the audience if they could sing one more song. And of course, the fans cheered, whistled and screamed in affirmation. The last song by Over The Rhine was more upbeat; a good nightclub song.
Overall, it was a fun, great-sounding concert. It's too bad more people didn't show.