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Neighborhood friends Don Barnes and Donnie Van Zant decided to form a band in 1974 and called it .38 Special, and were joined by Jack Grondin, Steve Brookins, Jeff Carlisi and Ken Lyons. They released their first, self-titled, album in 1977 followed a year later by “Special Delivery,” both of which had a strong southern rock influence. For their third album, they shifted to a more general arena rock sound, which helped them achieve success with the albums that followed.
Alongside a sound shift, there was also a lineup change with Ken Lyons no longer a member, and the addition of Larry Junstrom, Carol Bristow, and Dale Krantz. Their first series of successful singles came in 1981 with the release of “Hold On Loosely” followed by “Caught Up In You” in 1982 and “If I’d Been The One” in 1983; all of which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Album Rock Track Chart. Their album “Rock & Roll Strategy,” which was released in 1988 contained the successful single “Second Chance.” The single reached No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts, as did the single that followed, “The Sound Of Your Voice.” Throughout the years there were many lineup changes, with Don Barnes being the most constant member, and as of 2014 the lineup consists of Don Barnes, Danny Chauncey, Bobby Capps, Gary Moffatt and Barry Dunaway.
.38 Special have been around since ’74 but these guys play with more energy than your typical group of 20 somethings.
One of the most popular American rock groups from their time, nobody should have any question whether this is a group worth seeing. Some people might worry whether they can deliver the same show they did back in the 70’s, but I assure you this group’s performance does not disappoint. If anything, they almost seem more alive than ever because it is rare to see a group of their age play with such energy. When older icons like .38 Special are still playing live shows for thousands, you know it is because they love playing and the audience equally loves listening.
.38 Special have played alongside groups like Grand Funk Railroad and Lynyrd Skynyrd for years, and it is no surprise they have a similar sound and same lively show. One of the founding members, Donnie Van Zant, is a brother of Ronnie Van Zant, founder and former head singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd, as well as Johnny Van Zant, who is now the head singer for the same group. Southern classic rock is simply in their blood.
.38 Special are more than happy to play their old hits, including Hold on Loosely and Rockin’ Into the Night, but they also broadened their horizons and showed appreciation for all classic rock, covering bands like ZZ Top and Creedence Clearwater Revival. It was great to see one band’s take on their peer’s tunes. All in all, the quality of music was very high, complimented well by the quality of energy and enthusiasm coming from the band and audience. Whether you’re a younger person or an old fan from the 70’s, this show has a lot to offer.
jacksonhoward
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