David Lee Roth: The Smile is the Same the Voice is Not

Few names are as synonymous with classic rock as VAN HALEN. With countless hits, scandals, no brown M&Ms, and three singers, the band has certainly left their mark on music history. Musically, Eddie, Alex, and Michael carried the group. David was never a phenomenal singer, but his charisma more than made up for it.

10 years ago, VAN HALEN played at Sandstone Amphitheater (it will always be Sandstone, ephemeral corporate renaming be damned), and I was fortunate enough to attend. Eddie and Alex were incredible of course, Wolfgang was fine as well. David, then in his early 60’s, was full of energy, his voice, a little weaker, but he was still the showman. Even if he forgot the lyrics, he’d be quick to make a joke, and the energy from the crowd was palpable.

Now 70, Diamond Dave’s energy is greatly diminished. He moves across the stage more slowly, which is to be expected, but his pacing comes off more out of boredom than a substitute for the antics he can no longer do. Maybe it’s both. He does manage to get some kicks in though, both figuratively and literally.

Grinder’s played host to David Lee Roth’s show, and it might be easy to make jokes about him playing at a pizza place, but Grinder’s genuinely is a great place to see a show, having played host to many big names over the years; the pizza is pretty damned good too. Many of those in attendance were wearing David Lee Roth shirts, and appeared enthusiastic.

With a five man backing band, including two keyboard players (no track for “Jump” on this tour), and four backup singers, the sound is full, and nostalgic. Unfortunately, David misses the mark. For those who missed out on seeing Van Halen in their heyday, or just want to see Diamond Dave one more time, I’d sit this one out.