Summer Road Trip 2024 Tour Is An Evening of Timeless Hits: Train, REO Speedwagon, and Yacht Rock Revue Ignite the Kia Forum in LA

 On the night of September 8, the Kia Forum was a melting pot of music history as Train took the stage, alongside the smooth sounds of REO Speedwagon and Yacht Rock Revue. The air was thick with excitement from the moment fans began filling the seats, ready for a night of nostalgia, powerful vocals, and timeless melodies.

       Opening the show with their signature laid-back charm, Yacht Rock Revue took the audience on a delightful journey through the best of the soft rock era. As they expertly delivered hits from artists like Hall & Oates and Steely Dan, the crowd couldn’t help but sway along. Their uncanny ability to capture the essence of this genre made it hard for anyone to remain seated, and their contagious enthusiasm laid the perfect groundwork for the night ahead.

       Next, it was the legendary REO Speedwagon’s turn to take the spotlight. With frontman Kevin Cronin leading the way, the band launched into a set brimming with classic hits that have stood the test of time. As they belted out fan favorites like “Take It on the Run” and “Keep on Loving You,” the audience erupted into applause, singing along and reliving their youth.

Cronin’s energy was palpable, and his connection with the crowd turned the concert into a shared memory for all. With each song, it became clear that REO Speedwagon is not just a band; they’re a part of many people’s lives.

       As the stage was reset for Train, anticipation filled the air. The band opened their set with “Calling All Angels,” a poignant reminder of their ability to weave emotion into melody. Frontman Pat Monahan’s powerful vocals soared, captivating the audience from the very first note. The night continued with crowd favorites like “If It’s Love” and “Get to Me,” showcasing Train’s distinctive sound that blends rock with a hint of pop sensibility.

A highlight of the evening was the collaboration between Train and REO Speedwagon’s lead singer, Kevin Cronin, during the mash-up of “Meet Virginia” and “The Joker.” The synergy between the two legends was palpable, and it was a treat for fans to witness the seamless transition from Train’s heartfelt lyrics into the whimsical storytelling style of REO’s classics.

Train’s cover of Led Zeppelin’s “Over the Hills and Far Away,” featuring Rock Monahan, was an unexpected surprise that showcased the band’s versatility and respect for musical legends. They kept the flow going with a mix of hits like “Angel in Blue Jeans” and“Bruises,” which resonated deeply with a crowd that was more than willing to sing.

        One of the concert’s standout moments was the debut of “Bloom,” a track by Cheat Codes that featured none other than Cheat Codes on stage. It felt fresh and exciting, a reminder that Train isn’t afraid to experiment and bring new sounds into their repertoire. The blend of classic Train elements with contemporary influences was a testament to the band’s evolution over the years.

        As the evening approached its thrilling conclusion, the audience was treated to the collaborative performance of “Hotel California,” featuring Rock Monahan and Yacht Rock Revue. This moment was a celebration of musical camaraderie, blending the styles of the artists into something truly memorable.
Finally, Train capped off the night with “Drops of Jupiter,” a song that resonates with themes of love and longing, leaving the audience with a sense of nostalgic warmth. The cheers and applause echoed through the venue as the crowd departed, feeling grateful for an unforgettable night filled with stellar performances:

      In summary, lt was a magical evening featuring the distinct talents of Train, REO Speedwagon, and Yacht Rock Revue. From the smooth melodies of soft rock to powerful anthems, each act built on the last, creating a night that was not only about music but also about shared experiences and connections. Fans left with smiles on their faces and memories in their hearts, already looking forward to the next time they would gather to celebrate these beloved musical acts.

PHOTO CREDIT: All Live Photos by Angel Mejia for ZRockR Magazine – (c) 2024 – All Rights Reserved