LA Guns Set to Ignite The Vixen Stage in McHenry on Aug. 29

Legendary hard rock band LA Guns will perform an intimate concert at The Vixen in McHenry, Illinois, on August 29, 2023. Known for their energetic performances and classic hits, the band promises an evening filled with fan favorites and newer material. Original singer Phil Lewis and founding guitarist Tracii Guns will lead the charge, showcasing tracks like “Electric Gypsy,” “The Ballad of Jayne,” and “Over the Edge.”

The show is poised to deliver a mix of nostalgia and fresh sounds, reflecting the band’s evolution since their reunion in 2017. “We’ve got a great set with a good mixture of old stuff and new stuff. The band is so solid now,” Lewis stated. His enthusiasm for smaller venues is evident, as he prefers the direct interaction with fans over larger arena settings. “I love playing clubs… There’s no interaction and I like to come out and meet people,” he added.

In recent years, LA Guns has toured alongside the Tom Keifer Band and other prominent artists, while also headlining their own shows in various theaters and clubs. Lewis emphasized their focus on authentic live performances, stating, “We don’t mess around. We don’t have stupid giant screens or animation while we’re playing. I find that vulgar and distracting. I like to think people come to see us for our vibe and music.”

LA Guns gained prominence in the mid-1980s after Lewis moved from England to collaborate with Guns. Their chemistry was immediate, leading to the release of three classic albums: their self-titled debut in 1988, followed by the platinum-selling “Cocked and Loaded” in 1989 and “Hollywood Vampires” in 1991. The band toured extensively with rock icons such as Def Leppard, Iron Maiden, and AC/DC.

The early 1990s brought challenges as the music landscape shifted with the rise of Seattle grunge bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, leading to a decline in popularity for bands like LA Guns. Lewis and Guns experienced a rift during this time. “We were young guys with egos… So we didn’t talk or see each other for about a decade,” Lewis recalled. Their eventual reunion at a charity event reignited their partnership. “The chemistry was undeniable. We understand each other much better now and it’s a joy. Great to have my brother back,” he said.

Since reuniting, LA Guns has maintained a rigorous touring schedule, illustrating their commitment to live music. “Playing live is what we were born to do. The longevity is due to an understanding and respect for each other and our bandmates,” Lewis stated.

Tickets for the show at The Vixen start at $29.99. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit vixenmchenry.com. The Vixen is located at 1208 N. Green St., McHenry, providing an intimate venue for fans to experience the band up close. As LA Guns prepares for this electrifying performance, fans can expect a night of unforgettable rock music and personal connection.