Peter Frampton
Avalon Ballroom inside Fallsview Casino
Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
June 16, 2016
The Avalon Ballroom was sold out and anticipating Peter Frampton’s entrance that evening. He did not disappoint. At 8:40 pm he stepped into the spotlight and you could see the happiness and content reaction to being greeted by such a warm welcoming crowd. The night started off with Baby (Somethin’s Happening) from his third album Somethin’ Happenin’ (1974). After a few songs he greeted everyone thoroughly and engaged in light conversation with a couple that he had met earlier that afternoon, gave them 10th row tickets and took selfies with them while cracking light hearted witty comments then moving on with the rest of the set list.
There was barely a moment where Frampton wasn’t smiling, it was infectious and uplifting giving a comfortable warmth to the room. The music was crisp and the guitar was strong and prominent. The audience was very responsive and sang back most of the tunes with or without Frampton’s help. Rebel Rebel was played to tribute David Bowie (which I was excited to hear!) It’s always rewarding to hear amazing musicians pay tribute to each other. There’s usually a lovely passion that comes through the performance.
One of my favourite parts of the night was when the band played an instrumental Black Hole Sun. The sound was rich and resounding every second. Hypnotic and entertaining when Frampton made his guitar talk using the TalkBox which he’s done in the past. It’s always an interesting method to listen to and observe.
They saved the good ones for the last two songs. Frampton announced that originally they weren’t going to perform Baby I Love Your Way but decided last minute to wing it live. (I was very pleased to hear this song live as well!) Everyone sang along with enthusiasm keeping up with every word. His last song on the list was Do You Feel Like We Do and rocked the whole venue and crowd. He had plenty of energy and the band flowed and meshed with Peter very well. Seemingly enjoying themselves on stage.
Before heading off stage they did an encore of Off The Hook for everyone and some eager fans were permitted to come closer to the stage to get them up on their feet and dance or cheer on the band for one song. It sparked energy in the crowd and it’s always rewarding to see a live show so up close and personal. After the show most of the crowd stood and gave him a standing ovation showing their love and appreciation for Peter Frampton and the rest of the band. It was a great performance and evening. Enjoyable every moment. And Frampton was full of life and smiles the whole time.
Set List:
1. Baby (Somethin’s Happening)
2. Rebel Rebel (Bowie Cover)
3. Doobie Wah
4. Show Me The Way
5. Lines On My face
6. I Wanna Go To The Sun
7. Black Hole Sun (Soundgarden Cover)
8. (I’ll Give You) Money
9. Baby I Love Your Way
10. Do You Feel Like We Do
Encore:
11. Off The Hook
Connect with Peter Frampton online: (Website) (Facebook) (Twitter)
All photos by Kat Augustine
©2016. Please DO NOT copy or use without permission.
