Double Vision: Then and Now celebrates over 40 years of iconic rock music during a special performance bringing together current and past members of Foreigner.
The legendary lyrics “Now he needs to keep on rockin’, he just can’t stop” from “Juke Box Hero” define Mike Jones and the music of Foreigner. Since their debut album in 1977, Foreigner has been a driving force in rock and popular music. Spanning over 40 years, the band’s hits such as “Feels Like The First Time,” “Urgent,” and “Cold As Ice” still resonate strongly with fans of all ages.
Double Vision: Then and Now captures a 2017 performance at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, which features a lineup of former and current members of Foreigner. This includes original band members Ian McDonald (guitar/sax), Lou Gramm (vocals), Al Greenwood (keyboards) Rick Wills (bass), Dennis Elliot (drum) and Mick Jones (guitar) teaming up with current members Kelly Hansen (vocals), Jeff Pilson (bass), Tom Gimbel (guitar), Bruce Watson (guitar), Chris Frazier (drums), and Michael Bluestein (keyboards).
The tracklisting on Double Vision: Then and Now reads like a greatest hits list. It is a testament to the outstanding songwriting of Mick Jones and Lou Gramm. It also outlines the significant impact the music of Foreigner has on rock music.
Double Vision: Then and Now opens up with “Cold As Ice” from the first album before bouncing forward to “Head Games.” Kelly Hansen handles the lead vocals here and sounds outstanding. Dynamic and powerful vocals that retain the original vigor of original recordings while providing his own insight. The band’s performance is equally impressive with Mick Jones showing that his chops are sharp.
After an extended jam version of “Juke Box Hero,” Lou Gramm takes on the vocals for “Feels Like The First Time,” “Double Vision,” and “Blue Morning, Blue Day.” Lou sounds strong and clear. The cheering audience gives a clear indication that they are happy to see Lou and the other original members performing with Foreigner again.
One of Foreigner’s greatest hits is the power ballad “I Want To Know What Love Is.” On this timeless song, Kelly and Lou trade off on vocals. While each musician has their strengths, they sound stellar together. Adding to the power of this song is a full backing choir. Wrapping up the album is the fiery swagger of “Hot Blooded.”
While Double Vision: Then and Now is a joy to listen to and packed with essential Foreigner music, it could have been even better if they would have included all the songs from the DVD/Blu-ray. Most likely this is due to space issue in trying to get all 17 songs onto a double LP.
The Double Vision: Then and Now album can be purchased on November 15th via earMusic. Fans can experience the concert for themselves via DVD/Blu-ray. In addition to audio CD, this special performance can be enjoyed on a limited edition two-LP set. Pick up your copy and enjoy this phenomenal performance by one of the best rock bands in history; Foreigner.
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