The Enduring Power of Suzi Quatro's Scream
At 75 years young, Suzi Quatro proves that age is just a number when it comes to rock 'n' roll. Her recent Glasgow concert was a testament to her enduring energy and iconic stage presence. What's remarkable is how she has managed to retain her signature scream, a defining element of her performances since her early days in Detroit.
The Suzi Q scream, as I like to call it, is not just a vocal technique; it's an embodiment of raw desire and teenage rebellion. It's fascinating how a single sound can capture the essence of an entire era, in this case, the glam era. When she lets out that holler, it's as if she's summoning the spirit of rock 'n' roll itself, and the audience can't help but be enthralled.
A Study in Contrasts
Quatro's performance offers an intriguing study in contrasts. Here we have a 75-year-old woman, who has undoubtedly lived a full life, yet on stage, she transforms into a leather-clad teenager, brimming with innocence and unbridled passion. This is particularly evident in her cover of Neil Young's 'Rockin' in the Free World', where she infuses the song with sincerity, stripping away its anger. This ability to reinterpret classic songs is a testament to her artistic versatility.
The Art of Showmanship
However, not every moment of the concert was a hit. The second set, unfortunately, fell flat with its lackluster material and overlong band introductions. This segment felt like a missed opportunity, especially when compared to the well-paced and entertaining first hour. It's a reminder that even the most seasoned performers can stumble when it comes to pacing and material selection.
One segment that particularly stood out for the wrong reasons was Quatro's career retrospective with pictures. It felt like an awkward PowerPoint presentation, a la Alan Partridge, which disrupted the flow of the show. This is a common pitfall for artists who want to share their journey but often lose sight of the audience's engagement.
Pop Rush and Emotional Sway
Thankfully, the evening redeemed itself with a powerful one-two punch of 'Can the Can' and 'Devil Gate Drive', a pure pop rush that had the audience on their feet. This was followed by the beautiful country sway of 'If You Can't Give Me Love', showcasing Quatro's versatility. These moments are a reminder of her ability to connect with audiences across genres.
Knowing When to End
The show's finale, however, was a bit of a mixed bag. As Quatro sang 'Sweet Little Rock & Roller', some audience members began to leave, perhaps sensing the show's natural conclusion. But Quatro had one more surprise, returning to the stage for a final song, 'Singing With Angels', a tribute to Elvis Presley. While a touching moment, it felt slightly anti-climactic, leaving me wondering if the show could have ended on a higher note.
In my opinion, the concert highlights the importance of editing and pacing in live performances. Sometimes, less is more, and a well-timed cut can make all the difference. Despite these minor missteps, Suzi Quatro's performance remains a testament to her enduring appeal and the timeless power of her iconic scream.
