|
| |
Gwen Stefani and the Black Eyed Peas
|
 Entertainment
Art
Bradley Center
Milwaukee, Wis.
November 13, 2005 |
| |
|
The two played all those and more for the Bradley Center crowd on November 13. The crowd had more than its share of 12-year-old girls, but sprinkled in were 20- and 30-somethings who have been following Stefani since her early No Doubt days. In fact, when she mentioned No Doubt before singing her latest single "Luxurious," the crowd gave a hearty roar. (The song was co-written by No Doubt guitarist Tony Kanal).Stefani's stage show was top-notch. She changed clothes and props about every other song, and was surrounded by four male dancers, her four "Harajuku Girl" dancers, and a full live band.
Stefani stuck with current album tracks only, no covers or No Doubt hits. But that was more than enough to thrill. She opened with "Harajuku Girls" before going into the driving force of "What You Waiting For?"
The hits kept coming with "Rich Girl," "Cool,"Bubble Pop Electric," and more. And for an encore, Stefani and her entourage played "Hollaback Girl."
I've heard a lot of hate for Stefani for many reasons, including poor live vocal performance and gimmicky songs. I'm sold on the fact, however, that Stefani is nearly flawless vocally, having a unique style that sells records and separates her from the waify sounds of Sarah McLachlan or Natalie Imbruglia. Stefani is a rocker, and she really can work her songs, as well as the crowd.
Stefani was humble during the show. Stopping mainly to thank the crowd for supporting her first solo project. She said she didn't even plan to tour, but with CDs flying off the shelves, she took it as an indicator that fans wanted her to play.
Opening the show were the Black Eyed Peas, on their game in dance and song. During the intro, "Don't Phunk with My Heart," however, sound blew out and the group had to start over after about a 10-minute break.
Having a shorter time slot, the Peas stuck with the hits, rattling off "Hey Mama," "Don't Lie," "Where is the Love," "My Humps" and closing with "Let's Get Retarded."
Photos from Allstate Arena, Chicago, concert, of November 28.
