The Struts

House of Blues // Chicago, IL // November 23, 2018

The Struts have turned rock music into a nonstop party, and I am here for it.

The House of Blues was completely packed for the first night of The Struts’ sold out show, and it was nearly impossible to get to the photo pit. Hundreds of fans got as close as possible to the person next to them in order to get just a bit closer to the stage. Many of those in the front row had been waiting for hours to see the glam rock band play some of their biggest hits, and The Struts delivered a nonstop, stadium-worthy show. Having seen them last year at a much smaller venue, it was delightful to feel the body heat of a completely full concert hall, all there to see this glam rock powerhouse band. Frontman Lucas Spiller strode out on stage in a bright red and black leather suit and immediately had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand.

The Struts are the modern resurrection of British glam rock. Spiller’s mannerisms and stage presence are reminiscent of Freddie Mercury, but the group is careful not to copy Queen. Their sound and aesthetic are more of an homage to Queen and Led Zeppelin rather than an impersonation. Yet, as a massive fan of Queen, I could see and hear nods to the band in every song.  The Struts had their first big hit in 2013 with “Could Have Been Me” which made it to #5 on the U.S. Alt Rock charts. Since then,  they have toured across the globe, opened for some of the biggest rock bands, and released two studio albums.

Listening to their albums is one thing, but seeing them live is a completely superior experience. Every bit of detail in their shows, from the lighting to the costumes, compliments their sound perfectly, and the band’s onstage chemistry is incredible.

It’s no surprise The Struts sold out the House of Blues for two nights in a row, but what is surprising is the age range of their fans. I saw kids with their parents right on the barricade, and both were singing along the entire time. The band’s accessibility and sheer enjoyment with every song they create just confirms that they will be around for a very long time. Undoubtedly, the next time I see them, they’ll be in an even bigger venue.

The Struts

Photo by Kate Scott