Todd Rundgren

AUGUST '08

Harder Beat Magazine Online

Todd Rundgren —
National treasure

By Scott Mankoff
Edited by Linda Hollar

Todd Rundgren - Stiull winding, wailing guitar solos
Photo: Scott Mankoff

Todd Rundgren in a classic. For over 40 years, he’s endeared himself to millions of fans worldwide. When performing (as he did at the House of Blues on July 20), he combines his signature vocal stylings and winding, wailing guitar solos with brilliant wit during banter between songs.

In true form, Rundgren challenged the audience by performing the upcoming Arena album in its entirety. Due out Sept. 30, it was inspired by arena rock in the 1980s. Other songs included “I Saw the Light” and “Love in Action,” 80’s hits “Lunatic Fringe” and “Walls Came Down. The encore was 1973’s “Just One Victory.”

The band members have their own claims to fame. Guitarist Jesse Gress is a former music editor of Guitar Player and has five books out including “The Guitar Cookbook” and latest, “Blues Lick Factory.” Drummer Prairie Prince is known for his work with The Tubes, Journey and Jefferson Starship. He also plays with Rundgren in the New Cars. Other members are Rachel Haden (bass, backup), who has an angelic voice, and Matt Bolton (guitar, keyboards) who adds some screaming vocals to the mix.

Rundgren has also produced albums for bands including the New York Dolls, Grand Funk Railroad, Hall & Oates, Meatloaf, Patti Smith, The Tubes and XTC.

Todd Rundgren is a national treasure. His performance at HOB proved this to be true.

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