Warrant Debuts New Front-Man With First Performance In Tucson, Arizona

Tucson, Arizona, September 9, 2008, Warrant took the stage in the desert. The crowd wondered would this night prove the band could regain control of their sound and present a formidable rock ‘n’ roll show?  Would they end the recent bout of turbulent vocals and poor showmanship?

The lights dimmed and there was a hush, the crowd didn’t know what to expect. Quickly, there were cheers and a low roar from a hyped and hopeful audience. A weak front row of fans would swell into 2 full rows standing cheering on the songs they had come to hear. Enter Robert Mason (Lynch Mob and Cry of Love) the fresh face who led the band restoring the vocal integrity of the many Warrant anthems. Erik Turner on guitar, Jerry Dixon thumping bass, and Steven Sweet pounding drums brought the tight and polished sound they’ve had since reuniting.

Mason was eager to please by belting out what was so desperately needed, a clear and on- point vocal. Guitar shreds and pounding beats filled the venue as the band gained the respect and cheers they so justly deserved. There were no gray clouds hanging over Warrant’s head this night – only clear, blue skies.

The first three songs “Down Boys’, ‘D.R.F.S.R,’ and ‘So Damn Pretty’ were unblemished and solid. The band members seemed relieved, often sharing a smile or a head nod. They should be proud; this was Warrant we could identify with. ‘Heaven’ was next on the list, a power ballad, one easily recognizable and Mason pulled it off with heart and convinced the crowd he is worthy. Mason asked, “Can we rock some more?” At this point, the audience showed their appreciation to Mason by responding in a loud roar.  The band continued through the hour-long set with “32 Pennies,” “The Hole in my Wall,” “I saw Red,” “Sure Feels Good,” “Mr., Rainmaker,” and “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” Robert would run the length of the stage with antics of showmanship that brought a fresh and excitable air. Erik strutted the stage seemingly effortlessly and Jerry thumped a mean bass in time with Steven’s massive sound.  The show delivered, the audience had been heard singing along with the newly accepted singer, Warrant’s goal was achieved. Mason was magic and as the band walked off stage with satisfaction in their back pocket, “encore” could be heard in loud voices, fans craving more and more and more. We would be dealt one last song in the band’s arsenal, “Cherry Pie.”

Mason pulled no punches, didn’t offer up a lot of verbiage; it wasn’t needed. He needed to prove he was at the helm with unabashed conviction. Mission accomplished.
If you were there, you know you witnessed consummate rock performers who love their jobs. This band is well oiled and has been around the block but this time they’ve added a new kid and he is solid. Tonight, a brighter fire was lit. Kudos to Warrant, the mix is right, the sound is solid, and the show is all rock ‘n’ roll!

Lorri Mitchell - Bandwidth Rock Magazine© September 2008

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