A Very Cold Night Found Fans Packing the House of Blues Orlando for Geoff Tate's Operation Mindcrime - The Final Chapter" Tour

Karen Romano Adams
7 hours ago
2 min read

Even though the temperature outside was nearing the freezing point, the heat was ON inside the HOB tonight! As we all filed into the venue Florida was a balmy 50 degrees and FRIDIG 30 degrees (or colder) when we left, with a bitingly cold wind that seemed to go right through you.

Geoff was back to perform his classic album for us and this time with a string section. This addition has made for a more full, dynamic sound. You may think that you've heard it before, yes, but not like this and it gives fans a new experience in sound!

This time out he has a total of 10 people on stage including him and the movement across the stage from everyone never stops. This ensemble creates a total package performing this classic album. Geoff, the man, the myth, the legend, is always on point with his vocals and a stage presence that is second to none. He tells us colorful stories of life, music, and the road, captivating fans in attendance.

He made mention of some special fans in the audience that are part of his fan travel experiences called 'Back Stage Pass Travel'. These are week-long, guided tours to various international locations—such as Scotland, Ireland, Italy, and Germany—where fans sightsee, engage in jam sessions, and attend his shows. Sounds fun, right??!! Follow him on his socials for more information on that.

Our first opening band tonight was Tomas McCarthy hailing from Cork, Ireland. His music is heavily steeped in Irish tradition. Haunting and heartfelt songs about strife and loss, or undying love and even a beautiful song his wife, who plays saxophone in the band, sings entirely in gaelic, which is the official language of the Republic of Ireland. This trio was hand picked by Geoff to tour with him last year and we were very happy to see them asked back this year.

The second opener this evening was a band called OMGA. This is a newly formed band and, unfortunately, I am lacking information about them, yet, they put on an absolutely great hard rock performance. Their set was very short, comprising of only a few songs, some of which were covers, but the sound of those guitar solos have definitely stayed with me. We very much hope to see and hear more from them!