Over the past several years, Count’s Vamp’d has proven to be the ultimate rock and roll venue in Vegas. It has been impressive to all kinds of rock and roll fans in Vegas just what acts the venue has been able to book. Local, national, and international alike, they have pulled off things I never would have expected; countless fans out here will back me up on that.
There are several bands out there, that for some reason or another, would be highly wanted at a quality rock venue like Vamp’d. I (with some help from other members of the site) have compiled this list of 40 bands that may be good bets to book out there in the future. Note that I do not have any direct affiliation with Vamp’d, aside from being a regular for shows out there. In a way this is just a “wishful thinking” list.
Common sense has been used when compiling this list. Each band is detailed, a list of potential reasons and attractions to play the venue is listed, and the things that could possibly be derailing factors when it comes to potentially booking a band. Naturally, “big” bands like Bon Jovi, KISS, Guns N Roses, and the like are not included on this list; they would never be able to be accommodated by a smaller venue like this. We have limited this list to 40 bands, though I have no doubt that one much larger and longer could have been compiled!
Without further ado, here is the list, in no particular order….
-Rated X
Who are they: A new supergroup featuring former Blue Murder members Carmine Appice and Tony Franklin, and former Rainbow singer Joe Lynn Turner.
Why should they play: Most of these guys have been at Vamp’d before as parts of other shows, and getting them all together in one band would definitely be a highlight to Vegas-based fans of classic hard rock. Their debut album is due out in May. Turner and Appice also played together in the band Mother’s Army in the past, and naturally, have chemistry together as musicians.
What obstacles are there: It is not clear if the band is yet doing actual performances together or not. And when touring begins it is a good bet their will be focused more on the East Coast (and possibly Europe) to start.
-Red Zone Rider
Who are they: New supergroup combining the talents of drummer Scot Coogan (Ace Frehley, Lynch Mob, Lita Ford), Kelly Keeling (Baton Rouge, Blue Murder, Trans Siberian Orchestra), and Vinnie Moore (Alice Cooper, UFO).
Why should they play: The band just released their first album and has a sound all their own, combining modern and retro rock sounds. Legendary music industry personality Mike Varney produced their album so you can tell there is a lot of faith in what they are doing. Plus, Scot Coogan lives in Vegas and Kelly Keeling pops up at Vamp’d on a fairly regular basis, as does album producer Mike Varney.
What obstacles are there: Each one of these musicians keeps fairly busy in other ventures. Coogan is embarking on a new Ace Frehley tour, Moore tours and records with UFO, and Keeling remains in demand as a singer
-Manowar
Who are they: New York based classic heavy metal band that peaked in the latter half of the 1980s, with hit songs like Blow Your Speakers.
Why should they play: In the glory days of MTV you could not escape from these self-proclaimed “Kings of Metal.” Say what you will about these guys being cheesy and over the top; their antics won them a huge following that they maintain to this day. With bigger classic metal bands like Saxon and Accept having recently played Vamp’d, why not Manowar? The group still tours and plays a wide variety of venues.
What obstacles are there: It is another case of a band that remains more popular on the East Coast, and in European countries.
-Last in Line Dio Tribute
Who are they: A semi-official tribute to Ronnie James Dio that features former band members Jimmy Bain, Vinny Appice, Vivian Campbell, and Claude Schnell, with new vocalist Andrew Freeman (Lynch Mob, Hurricane, Raiding the Rock Vault). This Last in Line is not to be confused with the Las Vegas-based Dio tribute that once used this name, and is now called Dio Rising.
Why should they play: Seriously, who does NOT love classic Dio tunes? They do a tribute that primarily focuses around the golden years of the classic Dio solo band, of which these guys were actually members! It is also worth noting that they are going to begin recording original material with Freeman on vocals. Appice has appeared at Vamp’d many times with countless bands.
What obstacles are there: Almost every one of these guys is in at least one other band. Case in point; Vivian Campbell is the guitarist for Def Leppard, and has also been fighting cancer. Plus, Andrew Freeman has commitments to Raiding the Rock Vault. Even if they could get together for a tour and get away from their other commitments, they would likely have bigger, more popular European outlets prior to Vegas.
-Michael Schenker’s Temple of Rock
Who are they: The new band featuring German hard rock guitar virtuoso Michael Schenker, including vocalist Doogie White (formerly of Rainbow).
Why should they play: Vamp’d caters to the classic hard rock fans of Sin City. Schenker is arguably the greatest hard rock guitarist of time (and he has played Vamp’d in the past as a part of his previous solo band). Doogie White and company have breathed new life into Schenker’s career.
What obstacles are there: Schenker, while popular even in the United States, heavily seems to play more dates outside the USA. But Schenker having played Vamp’d with his previous band is a good sign that this could be a possibility. This version of the band played the Las Vegas Country Saloon (LVCS) earlier this year, so them coming back to Vegas someday is definitely a possibility.
-Autograph
Who are they: The classic 80s rock band who had a massive hit in 1984 with Turn On the Radio, and a number of other minor hits.
Why should they play: The lovers of 80s classic hard rock in Vegas are many in number. This classic group just got a new vocalist and has been out on the road doing more shows.
What obstacles are there: They do not have the brand name recognition that some of the bigger names of the 80s do, and are primarily known for one song. Still, the fact that they have been playing dates and that they appeal to many classic hard rock fans makes this a band worth booking.
-Krokus
Who are they: A classic hard rock band from Switzerland. They were moderately popular in the 80s with classic hits like Heatstrokes, Screaming in the Night, Headhunter, Midnight Maniac, and Long Stick Goes Boom.
Why should they play: This is another example of “since the other popular classic heavy metal bands have played Vamp’d, why not Krokus?” Their classic 80s anthem remain favorites of many a fan.
What obstacles are there: The band is based outside of the United States, and it is difficult to say whether a Vamp’d show could generate enough money for the band. Their only major recent American performances (if you can call them that) have been on rock cruises, and they primarily play European countries, where their following is bigger. It is one of those examples of “heavy metal is better respected in Europe.”
-Kix
Who are they: Classic 80s hard rock band out of Baltimore. Classic songs like Don’t Close Your Eyes, Girl Money, Blow My Fuse, and Cold Blood.
Why should they play: The band just released their first studio album in 19 years and has been touring to promote said release. With a more bluesy sound than many of their contemporaries, the band definitely stood out from the pack back in the day. Fans will agree that this is a band that remains relevant and talented alike, with the passage of time not having taken a toll on them.
What obstacles are there: The band is far more popular in the Eastern United States where they hail from and for the past several years, played that area almost exclusively. In recent years they seem to be playing more West Coast shows, however. They are playing the Eastside Cannery in January, but Vamp’d seems like a realistic fit for them if they do future Vegas shows.
-Black Star Riders
Who are they: A Thin Lizzy spin-off band featuring classic lead guitarist Scott Gorham, teamed up with musicians like Jimmy DeGrasso (Y&T, Alice Cooper), Ricky Warwick (The Almighty), Robbie Crane (Ratt, Vince Neil), and Damon Johnson (Brother Cane).
Why should they play: Thin Lizzy was one of the most influential classic hard rock bands of all time; countless metal legends of the 80s cite their music as a major influence. This band released their debut album last year; it was one of the best hard rock albums of 2013, beautifully combining the classic Thin Lizzy sound with modern elements alike. They have even done some American tour dates earlier this year.
What obstacles are there: Thin Lizzy, despite their influential nature, was always more popular in Europe. Naturally, that is where Black Star Riders as a band has been most popular so far. Still, the previous American tour dates are a good sign.
-Tom Keifer
Who are they: The lead vocalist and co-guitarist for classic hard rock band Cinderella.
Why should they play: Cinderella has a massive following with fans of the 80s rock scene. Keifer has one of the most distinctive and beloved voices of the era, and recently released his first solo album, which he has done a number of dates to promote. A mix of his new solo tunes combined with the Cinderella classics (sung by the man who sang on the original recordings, no less) would be an awesome show.
What obstacles are there: Some concertgoers might not be too big on the recent solo material, which is decidedly different from Cinderella. But there would likely be considerably fewer obstacles in the way of booking Keifer than a number of the other names on this list.
-King Kobra
Who are they: Classic 80s heavy metal band that recently reunited.
Why should they play: The complete classic lineup has reunited sans vocalist Mark Free. The new singer is Paul Shortino, with whom they have recorded two albums, which rank amongst their best ever. They had a loyal following back in the day which still exists today. Shortino and bassist Johnny Rod both live in Vegas so they are easily accessible. Furthermore, they previously recorded a music video at Vamp’d.
What obstacles are there: Every member of the band seems to have at least one other commitment, including Paul Shortino’s commitment to Raiding the Rock Vault. Furthermore, Carmine Appice (drums) is one of the most in demand players in the world (that has not changed with time), with his popularity not diminishing. The group seems to be relegated to “studio band” status, not touring in any shape or form. But if there were a city that could possibly make an actual show happen, Vegas is the one.
-Stryper
Who are they: Classic Christian-based 1980s hard rock band.
Why should they play: Guitarist Oz Fox lives here and is well known in Vegas. The band has a unique, large following that could definitely pack the house at Vamp’d. They have a sound all their own and have just released new studio and live albums alike.
What obstacles are there: Members of the band have other commitments; Oz Fox does a good deal on the local Vegas market, and vocalist/guitarist Michael Sweet has just released a solo album. Even if the band got together for another tour, it is likely they would he hitting up bigger festivals and cruises before doing a tour, or more specifically, a Vegas date.
-Girlschool
Who are they: An all-female New Wave of British Heavy Metal band that peaked in the early 1980s, but has remained largely active ever since.
Why should they play: When it comes to women that rock, you cannot top Girlschool. For years they have kept up their reputation, and their early albums are some of the best to emerge from the NWOBHM. They are the world’s longest running all female rock band, and have a following in multiple countries.
What obstacles are there: The NWOBHM bands are far more popular in Europe, and in Girlschool’s case, this is true as well. They have done a number of international dates in recent years (including Japan) but do not seem to be a doing a whole lot of international touring as of late.
-Leatherwolf
Who are they: Classic heavy metal band, probably best known for their 1987 hit, the Calling. They combined a heavier sound of three lead guitarists with production more typical of the “glam” bands of the day, in a sense giving fans of that era the best of both worlds.
Why should they play: While never a hugely popular band on the level of many of their peers, the band was harder and heavier than other groups of the day and had some truly excellent songs. Vocalist/guitarist Michael Olivieri recently rejoined the band, and has made two Vamp’d appearances with the Sin City Sinners.
What obstacles are there: They do not have the brand name recognition of a number of acts from the same period, as they did not have the same amount of hits that many of said acts had. That said, this is one of the more realistic possibilities on this list, as Olivieri has played Vamp’d with the Sinners, and the band has played Vegas in other venues.
-XYZ
Who are they: Classic hard rock band that debuted in 1989, combining a great mixture of heavy songs, pop songs, and ballads alike. Don Dokken produced their first album.
Why should they play: In addition to their biggest hit, Inside Out, the group created a number of classic anthems from the era. They recently reunited and have been playing the festival circuit, proving they still have a fanbase.
What obstacles are there: The biggest problem here is that vocalist Terry Ilous is now the singer in Great White, a far more popular band that attracts much bigger audiences. That said, if Great White goes on a hiatus, getting them at Vamp’d could be a possibility.
-Diamond Rexx:
Who are they: Chicago-based classic hard rock band featuring SS Priest AKA S. St. Lust, also of the D’Molls.
Why should they play: A few years back they reunited for an anniversary show. This is one of those bands that is legendary in and around the Chicago area but tends not to have the same recognition elsewhere. Despite this, they do have a loyal cult following and their share of fans elsewhere.
What obstacles are there: Once again it is one of those matters of the band having a cult following but not brand name recognition on as large a scale possible. They would likely have to be in the midst of a tour already to even consider coming here. (editor’s note: Word has it that they are recording another album and going to be doing a little touring! Just throwing that out there… )
-Blue Coupe
Who are they: A new group combining the talents of Albert and Joe Bouchard (formerly of Blue Oyster Cult’s classic lineup) with Dennis Dunaway (bassist from Alice Cooper’s original band).
Why should they play: Two classic members of Blue Oyster Cult. One classic member of the best Alice Cooper band. Pretty much speaks for itself. To hear all of these guys together in one band would be the best; classic hard rock fans in Vegas are sure to agree.
What obstacles are there: Their shows are primarily in Europe and the Eastern United States, and the band name alone would not draw in an audience (though if people who what bands these guys were from, I have a feeling they would be quick to attend this one.)
-Riot V
Who are they: The latest incarnation of Riot, the classic New York-based hard rock band who released classic albums like Narita, Fire Down Under, and Restless Breed. The name of the group has been changed following the death of classic guitarist Mark Reale in 2012. This group is not to be confused with the similarly named (and much more popular band) Quiet Riot.
Why should they play: Anyone who has taken the time to familiarize themselves with Riot knows that they do an excellent job releasing classic hard rock songs over the years. Swords and Tequila, from their classic 1981 album, Fire Down Under, is one of the greatest rock songs of all time, and the group has always been fairly active despite lineup changes and tragedies, including deaths of major members of the group.
What obstacles are there: This is another example of the whole “heavy metal is bigger in Europe” thing, not to mention the fact that as a New York based band they are much more popular on the East Coast. Also, there may be confused potential concertgoers who wonder if this is Quiet Riot.
-Ian Hunter
Who are they: The classic lead vocalist for Mott the Hoople, and a respectable solo artist in his own right. It was Hunter that originally recorded Once Bitten Twice Shy, later a hit for Great White.
Why should they play: Hunter is not a young man anymore, but still brings the talent. In recent years he has done a number of American tour dates too, including West Coast stuff, so Vegas would not be a huge stretch.
What obstacles are there: With other venues he has played in America and the weight his name holds, this seems like a good bet if he is available and can be booked. Not only does it seem possible, but it seems like a must do, because we never know how many more chances we will get to see him play. This is especially important given that he has primarily done UK shows for most of his career, back in the day.
-The Rods
Who are they: A classic hard rock/heavy metal band formed on the East Coast in the late 1970s. Vocalist/guitarist David “Rock” Feinstein is the cousin of the late Ronnie James Dio, and played alongside him in the band Elf.
Why should they play: In terms of classic hard rock, it does not get much better than the Rods. While heavily underrated, they have a small but loyal fanbase that knows what they are capable of.
What obstacles are there: This is another band that, while American, is far more popular in Europe, and generally plays the festival scene out there. Likewise, in America, they are more popular on their native East Coast.
-Hurricane
Who are they: Classic 80s hard rock band. At different points the band has included Kelly Hansen (now the singer in Foreigner), bassist Tony Cavazo (brother of Quiet Riot guitarist Carlos Cavazo), guitarist Robert Sarzo (brother of legendary bassist Rudy Sarzo), and Andrew Freeman, Doug Aldrich, and Jay Schellen (all three of whom are now in Raiding the Rock Vault). They are best known for their classic 80s rock anthem, I’m On To You.
Why should they play: An underrated as hell band that knows how to keep hard rock and heavy metal alive. The current incarnation of the band is still going strong and performs fairly regularly.
What obstacles are there: The big problem here is that people probably do not know which members of the band they would be getting, as nearly all of these guys are now in other bands/projects/etc. Additionally, outside of that one hit song, many fans know little by them. Fans would most likely be getting a version of the band that has very few classic members, if any at all.
-Down N Outz
Who are they: A side project featuring Def Leppard singer Joe Elliott and members of the Quireboys.
Why should they play: A very cool and unique side project, dedicating to keep 70s glam rock classics alive, namely Ian Hunter/Mot the Hoople material and that of some related artists.
What obstacles are there: This is a SIDE PROJECT, and as the frontman for Def Leppard, it is not exactly easy for Joe Elliott to get time off for other ventures. Furthermore, when they do get around to doing shows it is almost exclusively a UK affair. Plus, on top of that, you have the Quireboys still as an active recording/touring band, so THOSE guys would have to get the time off too.
-Drivin N Cryin
Who are they: A classic 80s rock band combining a mixture of sounds, including Southern-style rock and hard rock. Their hit songs include Build a Fire, Drive Me Courageous, and the Innocent.
Why should they play: Not only are these guys still around and still going strong, but they are still touring and keeping active as well. Last year they played Vegas opening for a reunited Winger.
What obstacles are there: This comes down to another case of there not being a great amount of brand name recognition associated with the band. The small but loyal fanbase they have might not be enough to get them to this end of the country, unless they are in the midst of a tour already. Whether the band has the brand name recognition to undertake a full-on tour is questionable.
-Twisted Sister
Who are they: One of the biggest rock bands on the 80s. Fronted by Dee Snider, they had tons of hit MTV videos and songs, including We’re Not Gonna Take It and I Wanna Rock. They are still active and going strong.
Why should they play: Although they do not have a recent release, they stay pretty active with tours, and remain one of the most popular rock bands out there. Retro tends have even further boosted their already strong popularity.
What obstacles are there: Vamp’d may be too small to accommodate the crowd that they might draw in; they have played some of the bigger venues in town in the past. However the venue has proven to be effective at accommodating some large crowds in the past so this is not completely outside the realm of possibility.
-Super Troup
Who are they: A touring supergroup featuring Quiet Riot co-founder Kelly Garni on bass, plus vocalist Chas West (Bonham, Lynch Mob), guitarist Scott LaFlamme (Bang Tango), and drummer Derek Pontier (Great White).
Why should they play: This one seems like a no-brainer. Garni lives in the Vegas Valley, and Chas West has played Vamp’d countless times with assorted bands, himself practically being a regular out there. Former Bang Tango and Great White members are a definite bonus.
What obstacles are there: Their current tour dates seem to emphasize international and East Coast dates. But considering so many of these guys have been Vamp’d regulars, this could be a very realistic possibility.
-Warrant
Who are they: Classic late 80s/early 90s classic glam-era band that had classic hit songs like Cherry Pie, Heaven, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Down Boys, and Sometimes She Cries.
Why should they play: One of the few bands from the era that actually still maintains a pretty strong following and does regular tours and performances. The band recently hired new vocalist Robert Mason (formerly of Lynch Mob) and put out an album with Mason a few years back, showing that they are still going strong in this present incarnation. Bassist Jerry Dixon played Vamp’d last year as a Sin City Sinners guest.
What obstacles are there: Because of their following they are playing other places fairly often. However, Vamp’d would by far be the best Vegas venue for them to play for a number of reasons. Their show would draw in a huge crowd.
-Metal Church
Who are they: Classic heavy metal band that has disbanded but reunited on more than a few occasions, and remains popular with metal fans.
Why should they play: 2013 saw the release of a new album from these guys, and on top of that, their popularity amongst metal fans keeps them as one of the
What obstacles are there: During Vegas visits the band tends to play other venues. Their following with metalheads may mean that they need a bigger venue to play during their visits to Sin City. Still, this could end up being an all-around good fit given how well Vamp’d has accommodated some bigger bands in recent years.
-T&N
Who are they: This group is basically “Dokken without Don Dokken.” Classic members George Lynch, Jeff Pilson, and Mick Brown got together with a number of guests (Brian Tichy, Sebastian Bach, Doug Pinnick, etc.) and recorded an album combining remakes of Dokken classics with new material.
Why should they play: Don Dokken cannot sing anymore, so these guys got together and beautifully demonstrated with their album release, Slave to the Empire, that they can make music. Bassist Jeff Pilson even proved that he makes a decent vocalist! Fans of Dokken and associated bands would love to see these guys together.
What obstacles are there: Again, it comes down to this being another matter of almost everyone here being involved in other bands and projects. It is also not clear if the band has future plans to record or to work together again.
-KXM
Who are they: Supergroup comprising George Lynch (Dokken, Lynch Mob), Doug Pinnick (King’s X), and Ray Luzier (Korn).
Why should they play: Great new supergroup with a bluesy, modern-ish sound that sets them apart from all of these other so-called “supergroups” out there today. They just released their first album a few months back. George Lynch has played Vamp’d before.
What obstacles are there: Seriously, how many different bands/projects is George Lynch in? It is not clear if this group is touring or has plans to, but these members are all busy in other projects and groups as well. If they did a tour, though, this would be a great stop for it.
-John Waite
Who are they: Original lead singer for the Babys and Bad English, and a big solo star in the 80s in his own right with his hit, Missing You.
Why should they play: The Babys (the current incarnation that does not have Waite) played Vamp’d last year, so having Waite as a solo artist play the venue seems like a promising venture. Missing You was a massive 80s hit, and so were many classic Babys songs, so you know he would be popular in a place like this.
What obstacles are there: This is another instance of someone that might be looking to play larger venues with higher priced tickets (I believe he usually plays the Station Casinos clubs when he comes to Vegas).
-King’s X
Who are they: The band that Doug Pinnick rose to fame in. Active since the 80s and still popular today.
Why should they play: With an eclectic mix of hard rock, melodic rock, and everything in between, this is one of the most diverse and interesting rock bands of all time. If they embark on an American tour this could be a great stop for them.
What obstacles are there: They may be looking to play shows in larger venues/festivals/etc. Still, given some of the talent Vamp’d has attracted lately, this could very much be a possibility. However one must also keep in mind Doug Pinnick’s involvement in other projects.
-Armored Saint
Who are they: Classic heavy metal band. Following the death of classic guitarist Dave Prichard, they carried on with former Odin guitarist Jeff Duncan (himself now a Vegas resident).
Why should they play: Classic heavy metal, and Jeff Duncan is a regular at Vamp’d. These guys still remain popular to this day, and it is not too surprising that they seem like a perfect fit to play out here.
What obstacles are there: Jeff Duncan is involved in other bands. Even though Armored Saint is still active they seem to be on the backburner for the time being. Between his involvement in DC4 and the Bones, whether or not we will see an actual Armored Saint show at Vamp’d is up in the air.
-WASP
Who are they: Classic 80s hard rock band who scored big hits with songs like I Wanna Be Somebody, Blind in Texas, and Wild Child.
Why should they play: Amongst the hard rock bands of their era, this is one of the most beloved and recognizable. Whenever former members of the band have played Vamp’d in the past, it has been a respectable turnout.
What obstacles are there: The band never seems to be able to keep a steady lineup and primarily revolves around frontman Blackie Lawless. Even the members of the so-called “current” version have their share of side projects and other bands.
-Four By Fate
Who are they: New band featuring former Frehley’s Comet members Tod Howarth and John Regan.
Why should they play: These two men were instrumental in the comeback of Ace Frehley in the late 1980s, contributing heavily to Frehley’s Comet. Howarth, in particular, sang and write several songs on the Second Sighting record, and had a reputation as a skilled songwriter and performer prior to that.
What obstacles are there: On their own these names do not carry a good deal of weight to most. This could change if people know who they were and what albums they played on, though; those are classics and there is no denying people would love to see these two live and in person.
-The Sky
Who are they: A new band featuring former Journey and Vinnie Vincent Invasion vocalist Robert Fleischman.
Why should they play: Fleischman is one of the most underrated personalities in the rock and roll world. He actually co-wrote a number of the band’s biggest hits from Infinity, the first Journey album with Steve Perry. This band shows off his musical diversity, and has actually recorded a number of releases.
What obstacles are there: The band itself is not very well known at this point, and Fleischman’s name may not carry the necessary weight to attract the desired crowd. But it is another instance of a crowd potentially being attracted if people learn more about this man and who he has been with.
-Almost Queen
Who are they: One of the best received Queen tribute bands in the world today, having received countless positive reviews from a myriad of concertgoers, pros in the industry, and others alike.
Why should they play: The appeal of a band like Queen is universal, and this is the greatest band out there today paying a full-on tribute to them. Even to this day, over 20 years after Freddie Mercury’s passing, the band is as popular as ever. A full-on tribute to Queen could bring an impressive turnout.
What obstacles are there: The band’s past tour dates show that they have primarily played the Eastern United States and the Midwest, so it is questionable as to whether they would be a group willing to travel to Sin City to play a show; the cost benefit might not be there for them.
-D’Molls:
Who are they: Chicago-based classic hard rock band that started in the mid 1980s. Best known for their hit song, D’Stroll.
Why should they play: Despite relatively few actual releases they remain active and keep up their following. Their biggest hit is a regular staple of glam metal/hair band radio shows and the like.
What obstacles are there: The group does not seem to have much going on currently in the way of tours and the like, and it is unclear if they would command strong enough of a following to draw in a crowd for a show.
-Babylon AD
Who are they: Classic San Francisco hard rock band that debuted in the latter half of the 1980s. Still touring and staying active.
Why should they play: A great band that never got the proper credit. Their first album had a few minor hits which helped to get them a following, and most of the classic band is still together and active to this day. They have been touring on a fairly regular basis.
What obstacles are there: Aside from the fact that it is not an instantly recognizable name, this could definitely be a doable show, and one the hard rock fans of Vegas would likely love to see. The band recently did a show in Salt Lake City, Utah, not far from here, so Southern Nevada is not outside the realm of possibilities.
-Hericane Alice
Who are they: Minneapolis-based hard rock band that started in the 1980s. Their album, Tear the House Down, was moderately popular.
Why should they play: While not one of the “big name” bands of the 80s, it is worth mentioning that they had a great sound that epitomized everything about this musical era. They played out here last year for a Winger after party, so they are still very much active.
What obstacles are there: The big obstacle is that they have not released an album since 1990, so they do not really have anything recent to promote. It is also hard to tell if they will have the necessary brand name recognition to attract a crowd.
-Steel Panther
Who are they: A “parody” metal band of sorts, performing glam-style hard rock with ridiculous, comical lyrics and themes. They also perform covers as well.
Why should they play: They now have three albums out, have skyrocketed in popularity, and have played all over the world. A show at Vamp’d by Steel Panther would pack the venue; as they have had semi-residences in Vegas over the years, the band has a huge fanbase out here.
What obstacles are there: It is getting to the point where these guys are almost too popular and are getting bigger gigs. For the time being, they are opening for Judas Priest on a tour. Still, getting them out here should be doable, and seems like an all-around good choice.
While not really in any specific order above- those are just 40 of the acts that we think would be excellent to have booked at Vamp’d in the near future. Hopefully, all in due time, we will be seeing more than a few of them. Here is hoping for an exciting 2015 in Las Vegas’ leading rock and roll venue, with old and new faces alike on the stage! Did we forget anyone? Who do you think should be on the Wish List?
Geoff tate , the only voice of queensryche
King’s X would be amazing. So much more influential than people realize. Main obstacle is drummer Jerry Gaskill’s health, as he is recovering from a second heart attack and they had to cancel their touring plans.