This past Friday night we got transported back to the 80’s. Complete with neon lights, loads of hairspray, and… a Conga line?! Indeed! Guardians of the Jukebox brought the party to Amos’ Southend for an epic experience you definitely won’t forget. The band features Rich Ward (Stuck Mojo, Fozzy) and describes themselves as The Ultimate 1980’s Time Machine Experience. I always hear about them, but hadn’t seen one of their shows yet and I’m definitely glad I did.
When I arrived at Amos’ Southend, I noticed all the fans trickling in. Not everyone dressed up in their best 1980’s era outfits, but a lot did. I saw lots of 80’s memorabilia, bright colors, all the neons, girls had their hair up in scrunchies and I even saw a few leg warmers. Everyone was clearly ready and it wouldn’t be long before the entire venue was transported. Checking out the stage, it was lined up with TV screens. During every song and in between songs these screens would be filled with all of our favorite 1980’s movies, videos, tv shows, all of it!
Guardians of the Jukebox hit the stage and dove straight into “Separate Ways,” which immediately had everyone in the crowd belting out the lyrics right along with the band. Immediately following everyone would be rocking down to “Electric Ave.” There was a little bit of talking in between songs, but mostly the Guardians just kept hitting us with another hit of nostalgia.
Not only is the crowd transported back and singing and dancing along to all of these songs, but the band is too. The energy each member is giving every single performance is just unparalleled and I think that’s actually one of the most special things about it. You can tell they love giving everyone this experience because they love the music too.
For a full list of tour dates, visit: https://www.guardiansofthejukebox.com/#tour
I’m Music Magazine Associate Editor/Photographer Daphne McKinney
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