The evening's festivities began with a set from former Material Issue bassist Ted Ansani. Backed by a lead guitarist, bassist & drummer, Ansani plowed through songs from his debut release,'Throttle And Pistons,' as well as Material Issue faves. 'Kim The Waitress' and 'Next Big Thing' sounded particularly great. The Chicago crowd clearly enjoyed seeing one of it's favorite sons return to the scene that he helped define.

Though it was nearly a quarter to twelve before The Smithereens appeared, no one was in the mood for complaining. The guys took to the stage and in a matter of seconds were ripping into the one-two punch of 'Only a Memory' and 'House That We Used To Live In.' Never a band to shy away from the hits, The 'Reens aim to please and did just that by including all the favorites....'Yesterday Girl','Behind The Wall Of Sleep' & 'Miles From Nowhere' were all present.

"This next one is from 'God Save The Smithereens,' which we pray to God you're familiar with," was Pat DiNizio's introduction to 'She's Got a Way.' The Smithereens also showed their darker, moody side with other 'God' cuts like 'Someday' & 'Try,' both making their live debuts. Late in the set came a heart-felt version of The Who's 'Behind Blue Eyes.' DiNizio traded verses & choruses with the crowd, who were only too happy to oblige. Other highlights included lead-guitarist Jimmy Babjak's 'White Castle Blues' and a rare live version of 'Deep Black.'

Having been a Smithereens' fan for years & having seen nearly every Chicago-area appearance, I'm still in awe of how great this band is. Even at their loosest, they're still tighter than most other groups, mostly due to the phenominal rhythm section of Dennis Diken & Mike Mesaros. They also manage to keep things fresh by mixing the hits with lesser-known album cuts. You really can't ever be sure of what songs might be included in the setlist. And, if you're looking for a fan-friendly band, these guys are the real thing. After the show my wife & I chatted with Jim about a wrist injury incurred while playing hockey with his son. Pat also took the time to pose for a photo.

I guess in closing, there are only three things left to say:

One......The Smithereens are the last great American rock band.

Two......we must continue to support them!

Three.....GOD SAVE THE SMITHEREENS!