The Rockford Files

The Rolling Stones may be the model for sustained survival skills within that fickle arena known as rock 'n' roll. But any mention in that exclusive domain must also include Cheap Trick, a band now celebrating its 30-year milestone as the prime movers of American power-pop. While early breakthrough hits...

By Lee Zimmerman

October 26, 2006

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The Rolling Stones may be the model for sustained survival skills within that fickle arena known as rock 'n' roll. But any mention in that exclusive domain must also include Cheap Trick, a band now celebrating its 30-year milestone as the prime movers of American power-pop. While early breakthrough hits like "I Want You to Want Me" and "Surrender" set a standard, Cheap Trick's dogged ability to stay relevant (and keep rockin') has kept the group on the radar for so long. True, later attempts failed to match the heights of albums like In Color or Heaven Tonight. But the band's most recent effort, Rockford, marks a return to form — and it's easily Cheap Trick's best work in decades. What's more, guitarist Rick Nielsen still holds his own as one of rock's most iconic eccentrics. His antics alone guarantee a show exploding with flash and frenzy. There's nothing cheap about it.

Cheap Trick headlines Little Steven's Underground Garage Tour on Sunday, October 29, at Hard Rock Live, 5747 Seminole Way, Hollywood. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $20 to $47.50. Other performers include the Romantics, Shadows of Knight, and the Charms. Call 954-523-3309, or visit www.ticketmaster.com.

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