Admittedly, Foghat has gone through numerous personnel changes throughout the years, although one constant has always remained, Roger Earl on drums. On this warm, sunny afternoon, the Foghat co-founder started things off with a drum intro that lead into “Honey Hush,” where it was obvious that singer/guitarist Charlie Huhn, who has been with the band for the last eleven years, keeps the spirit of departed Foghat co-founder Lonesome Dave Peverett alive. Huhn got the sparse crowd (the drawback to being the opening act of a festival on a 93 degree, not a cloud in the sky day) clapping along as the band launched into “Home In My Hand.” Huhn and company were having a good time and they invited anyone who wished to join along.
With “Road Fever” Foghat showed off some nice double guitar work and trade-offs between Huhn and fellow guitarist Bryan Bassett, a Foghat member since 1999. The Willy Dixon “My Babe,” highlighted the harmonies of the band, long time bassist Craig MacGregor joining in and sounding dead on in this live performance. Rewarding those loyal fans near the stage, Huhn fired off a few souvenir guitar picks and Earl was overly generous in throwing out a drum stick or two.
Foghat left the big four songs for last, starting with “Stone Blue” which finally got the crowd standing with the fans showing a little more head banging than they had previously. Earl then did a nice drum solo before Huhn introduced the members of the band. For those that were unaware of Bassett’s pedigree, a few bars of “Play That Funky Music,” showcased the former Wild Cherry guitarist who swore that his polyester jump suit was safely stored away.
The radio friendly “Fool For The City” and “I Just Wanna Make Love To You,” got extended play versions, again showing why Foghat live is the best way to listen to them. By the time Huhn asked the audience if they were ready for a slow ride, Bassett’s familiar slide guitar and Earl’s drum beat got the whole place up on their feet and dancing.
With album sales declining yearly, it is becoming more and more necessary for classic rock bands to perform live. For Foghat and their fans, that isn’t such a bad thing.
Set List: Honey Hush | Home In My Hand | Road Fever | My Babe | Drivin’ Wheel | Stone Blue | Drum Solo | Fool For The City | I Just Wanna Make Love To You | Slow Ride
