It doesn’t seem like it’s been that long since I’ve seen Foxy Shazam, but I really think it has been! I jumped on a ticket as soon as I could, especially when I saw the show was at the Grog Shop again. I’d like to think they could sell a bigger venue, but they must have some soft spot for the Grog Shop. Not that I’m complaining – I love it, too!
After getting in the venue only twenty minutes before the opener went on, I was rather impressed with myself for the spot I was able to get at the side of the stage. Though it was on the side, I could see everyone pretty perfectly. After local opener, Cellophane Jane closed out their lively, rock-heavy set, I was given an even clearer view of the stage thanks to some nice girl. The only problem with the Grog Shop is that it’s not short people friendly, so she was a real savior. The set up was quick and Foxy took the stage with “Yes! Yes! Yes!” then immediately slid into “Killin’ It.” Talk about a way to start a show!
To a newcomer, Foxy Shazam has to look absolutely bonkers. There are six of them on stage, but they aren’t delicate about space. They thrash around, somersault, and jump however they want. Compared to the last time I saw them, this lineup has been fixed, so there’s definitely more love and comfort there. The keyboardist, Shuyler, continues to be my next favorite member to watch on stage. Eric has no limitations with his movement since he’s just got the mic, but Shuyler makes the most of it with his giant keyboard. Again, I watched him pick that thing up and place it on top of the crowd to play some more. Plus his bald head and big beard really add to the look.
And again like other times, Eric lit a trio of cigarettes, smoked them throughout the song, and then promptly ate what was left at the end. A legend. Almost one-upping him was a circus performer that they brought out a few times. She had her stockings stapled to her thighs, balanced swords, and set off some metal sparks at the end of the show. For me, nothing will top “Oh Lord” and “Holy Touch” from the evening, though I was really surprised that “Pink Sky” is the only song that made the set off of the new album. By previous standards, this was actually a pretty short set, but in their defense, it was a forty-date tour. And we’re all getting older, so I guess they had to conserve some energy to make it through the whole tour. Because let me tell you, the energy never waivered once during the set. They are just so much freaking fun. I hope they tour again sooner rather than later.
