The Sweet brings glam rock to the Egyptian Theatre

British rock band Sweet played hit songs “Fox on the Run” and “Ballroom Blitz” Saturday at the Egyptian Theatre.

By Peter Zemeske

Iconic glam band The Sweet is on tour, and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, they brought the sounds of classic power rock to the Egyptian Theatre stage, 135 N. Second St.

The drum kit taking center stage, flanked by Les Pauls, bass amps and keyboards, screamed rock’n’roll. Founding member Steve Priest walked to a seat on stage where he said, “If you don’t mind me sitting down, I don’t mind rocking and rolling.”

The band played a blistering rendition of “Action” with lead singer Paulie Z firing up the crowd, saying, “You want some action?” Paulie Z’s highly dynamic and powerful voice carried across the theatre with ease.

Paulie Z had several outfit changes throughout the night in classic ’70s glam rock form. On his final outfit change, he brought not only a striking silver jumpsuit to the stage, but an instrument to make any song better: a cowbell.

Guitarist Mitch Perry displayed his clear virtuosity on his instrument with killer guitar solos during “Teenage Rampage” and “Fox on the Run.” The last song played was the mega hit “Ballroom Blitz,” which had the entire venue on fire. Although Priest is older than most touring musicians, he showed he definitely has what it takes to keep up. Throughout the night, the band proved they have not lost touch with their audience and still know how to give fans a stellar show.