LIVE NATION PRESENTS: EXTREME
LIVE AT HARD ROCK LIVE IN WHEATLAND, CA ON 2/25/24
Extreme, the band that soared to fame in the late ’80s and early ’90s with their fusion of hard rock, funk, and soulful balladry, made a tour stop at Hard Rock Live in Wheatland. Known for guitarist Nuno Bettencourt’s technical prowess and the band’s unforgettable hits “More Than Words” and “Hole Hearted”, Extreme delivered a performance that not only revisited their glory days but also demonstrated their enduring relevance and musical evolution. Extreme’s song catalog has always been a lot heavier than the MTV and radio tracks played over the decades and tonight many of the songs would be heard tonight.
The Hard Rock Live venue is one of my favorite places to see and hear a band because of their state of the art sound and incredible lighting. The versatility on the venue layout can be change nightly from a completely seated venue, to a general admission open pit with or without seating around the stage.
Extreme kicked off the evening with “It(‘s a Monster)”, setting a tone that could be felt through the venue. The setlist was a mix of hits, deep cuts, and newer material, showcasing the band’s journey from their early days to their current musical explorations.
Nuno Bettencourt, renowned for his guitar virtuosity, did not disappoint. His solos were electrifying, blending technical precision with impassioned expression. Watching Bettencourt play live is a reminder of his status as one of the premier guitarists of his generation. His performances of “Midnight Express” and Flight of the Wounded Bumblebee” were a masterclass in musicianship, combining funk rhythms with rock intensity in a way that only Bettencourt can produce. Nuno’s harmonizing vocals with vocalist Gary Cherone on “More Than Words” added a personal touch to the show, making the performance feel intimate despite the size of the venue.
Gary Cherone’s vocal performance was so on point this evening. His ability to cross between rock anthems and ballads showed his versatility and emotional depth as a vocalist. Gary as a front man is the classic showman, always entertaining and controlling the emotions of the crowd. From the early club days to the venues the band play now, Cherone feeds off the energy of the crowd that he creates.
The rhythm section, comprised of Pat Badger on bass and Kevin Figueiredo on drums, provided a solid foundation that allowed the music to soar. Their tight, cohesive playing was particularly evident on tracks like “#REBEL” and “Rise,” where the complex arrangements and shifting dynamics require precision and energy. Badger and Figueiredo’s ability to lock in with each other while also interacting with Bettencourt and Cherone added a freshness to their performance while driving the band’s sound forward.
Extreme’s performance at Hard Rock Live was a statement of their enduring legacy and ongoing relevance in the rock genre. They delivered a show that was not only a trip down memory lane but a demonstration of the band’s continued evolution and vitality. As the final notes of “Rise” filled the venue, it was clear that Extreme had not just performed; but left us with a testament to the lasting power of great music and genuine talent.
EXTREME Photo Gallery Click HERE
Nuno’s Stage Setlist