Rockin' the night away
Thousands cheer sweet sounds of CCR once again
By Shondiin Silversmith
Navajo Times
WINDOW ROCK, June 12, 2012
(Times photos - Bobby Martin)
Enthusiastic fans enjoyed the concert performed by Creedence Clearwater Revisited last Tuesday night at the Dean C. Jackson Memorial Rodeo Arena in Windwo Rock. CCR played their classics for about two hours on a cool evening that was blessed with a light rain.
C
reedence Clearwater Revisited was nothing short of amazing as thousands of people - young and old - rocked out to a genuine rock concert July 3 at the Dean C. Jackson Memorial Arena.
Creedence Clearwater Revisited kicked off the Fourth of July celebration with "Born on a Bayou."
As the first riff went off the guitar the crowd instantly recognized the song and began cheering.
Millie Harvey, 64, from Round Rock, Ariz., said that when she was younger she would listen to Creedence Clearwater Revival on the radio and TV.
The July 3rd show was the first time Harvey saw Creedence Clearwater Revisited. She said that one of the main reasons she came to the concert was, "to see the real persons."
Thousands of people filled the rodeo arena as Creedence Clearwater Revisited belted out long guitar solos and classic beats throughout the evening.
Another fan favorite was introduced by bassist Stu Cook.
"It was true 40 years ago and it's still true today," Cook shouted to the crowd before guitarist Kurt Griffey started playing "Who'll Stop the Rain."
The crowd roared with applause.
Later, lead singer John Tristao addressed the large crowd and led them to yet another Creedence classic.
"Once again we got an awesome venue for rock 'n' roll and, by God, you're going to get it," said Tristao just before the sounds of the song "Hey Tonight" began.
After "Hey Tonight," Cook introduced the members of Creedence Clearwater Revisited.
Creedence Clearwater Revisited consists of five members, two of whom are ex-Creedence Clearwater Revival members - Cook and drummer Dough "Cosmo" Clifford. They are joined by Tristao, guitarist Kurt Griffey and keyboardist Steve Gunner.
Jose Gonzalez from Round Rock, Ariz., said, "It's not an imitation but an exquisite tribute band. Anybody can imitate but these guys are a wonderful tribute."
Gonzalez added that what he enjoyed most was the sound of the guitar and bass mixing perfectly,
"I loved it, it was wonderful," he said with a smile.
Then, Cook shouted to the audience, "This song's for all the pretty girls," as the slow guitar riffs started to "Long As I Can See The Light."
Before the set ended, Tristao acknowledged the cheers and support of their fans.
"We'd like to thank you, the fans, for keeping this music alive for so many years," Tristao yelled to the excited specatators.
The band ended the night with a song that has played on many radios and juke boxes across the Navajo Nation for many years, "Bad Moon Rising."
Kathy and Gary Sells of Window Rock said the band still performs and plays like they did in the old days.
"We grew up with them," they said as they explained they first heard the band 40 years ago and that it made them feel young again to be able to see them perform.
Kathy described the concert as "super."
"It's nice to listen to songs with lyrics," Gary emphasized as he talked about how music today can't compare to what Creedence Clearwater Revival was and what Creedence Clearwater Revisited is.
"Something with good lyrics," he said with a grin.
For more information about Creedence Clearwater Revisited visit www.creedence-revisited.com.