Concert Review
Lakeside Casino, Osceola, IA
June 16, 2012
Terrible's Lakeside Casino in Osceola, Iowa advertises "great shows in an intimate venue." That is exactly what fans got at the June 16 David Cassidy show. The room where the concert was held was large enough to contain several hundred hyperventilating, excited fans but small enough to offer concertgoers an up close and personal evening with their favorite singer.
Excitement filled the air before the concert began as fans milled around the lobby, exchanging stories sharing favorite songs and memories. The concert began at eight o'clock sharp with David being introduced by his lovely drummer, Teri Cote. Screams filled the air as David leaped onto the stage and opened with a rocking edition of "C'Mon On, Get Happy." Seeing David looking so good made his fans very happy indeed.
This was the first David Cassidy concert my husband and I attended and also the first concert we've been to since we went to see Frank Sinatra in 1990 (we don't get out much!). I can say in all honesty that I enjoyed David's concert more than Frank's. David's obvious enjoyment of the evening added to the fans' enjoyment. While he rocked the house with a tribute to the late, great Davy Jones with "Daydream Believer" and "I'm a Believer," he also brought us to our collective knees with a heartfelt rendition of John Lennon's "In My Life." Tears came to everyone's eyes, including David's. That he could get so emotionally involved in a song to the point that he takes the audience along with him is a true testimony to his talent. And I'm sure that none of us will forget "Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone." David's vocal range is amazing and the fun he had with the song was a joy to behold.
Also covered was an arrangement by keyboardist Craig J. of the much loved "Cherish" and the classic "I'll Meet You Halfway." David remarked that he was "old" but it sure didn't show. He's energetic, enthusiastic and apparently ageless.
Let's not forget the band. At the end of the concert bass player Frank Fabio came back onstage and handed out guitar picks to the throngs of women chanting "David! David!" In addition to being considerate, he's also a fantastic bassist. Guitarist Dave Robicheau can give Eddie Van Halen a run for his money and I believe Dave would win. His solos made the audience's hair stand on end and electrified the crowd. We can't forget the drummer and singer Teri Cote. Young, beautiful, talented AND she gets to travel around the world with David Cassidy? Maybe the women in the audience would like to forget her! Seriously, Teri has a great voice which she shared when she sang "Brass in My Pocket." Finally, keyboardist Craig J. played with heart and soul. He's a talent that truly shines.
Throughout the concert, David kept up a conversation with the audience that was funny, charming and warm. It's easy to see why his fans have remained loyal throughout the years. David remarked that he was having so much fun that it should be illegal. I'm sure the audience felt the same way. He ended this wonderful concert with the classic "I Think I Love You" to which the ecstatic audience responded: we love you too, David!
The Lakeside Casino is constructing an outdoor theater. Hopefully, David will return next summer. This Midwestern fan can't wait!
By Nell Musolf
