Mr. Big
BB Kings
New York City, New York
August 23, 2011
Tony Pijar

With a less than amicable split back in the day, who would have thought we’d ever see Mr. Big release a cracking new album, let alone play live again? Well, it was certainly worth the long wait. A sold out BB Kings in New York City welcomed the band back with open arms, especially bassist extraordinaire Billy Sheehan whose first professional band, Talas, is from the New York area.
Opening with “Daddy Brother Lover Little Boy”, the band came out swinging and looking genuinely happy to be on stage together. Sheehan and guitarist Paul Gilbert exchanged electric drills which emanated some cool sounds from their instruments. Sheehan isn’t the only jewel in this bunch; Gilbert has to be one of the best guitarists in the business, Pat Torpey is an incredibly solid drummer, and Eric Martin remains one of the best vocalists in the field – how does he keep his voice in such impeccable shape after all these years? The set list was extensive, with the band rocking out on 23 songs! There were so many highlights, but for many others and me, the new stuff was phenomenal live, specifically “Undertow” and “American Beauty”. Man, what great songs to hear live! While not a fan of solo spots, you’ve got to hear Gilbert and Sheehan do their thing; truly incredible. Sheehan’s bass solo led into the band’s signature song, “Addicted to that Rush.” Again, to see Gilbert and Sheehan spar was unbelievable. The encores were cool too. “To be with You” and “Colorado Bulldog” morphed into “Smoke on the Water”. Pulling a Night Ranger, the guys switched instruments with Gilbert exchanging the guitar for a pair of sticks, Sheehan took over on lead vocals, Martin donned the six-string, and Torpey grabbed Sheehan’s bass. Musical instrument swapping continued with Martin handing Sheehan Gilbert’s guitar just in time for the lead spot, while Martin took Sheehan’s bass from Torpey, and after the solo Torpey sang lead vocals! Unreal! And, finally, they closed with “Baba O’ Riley” with Sheehan playing the keyboard parts on his bass!
It’s all about having fun and both the band and audience were in stitches while nailing it! Bands like Mr. Big do not come along that often…catch them live and see what I mean!