On Friday, May 16, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Pat Benatar and Neil “Spyder” Giraldo returned to Turning Stone Casino in Verona. Performing alongside soul rock band The Vindys for a must see show filled with powerful female lead vocalists and virtuosic musicians.

The Event Center Stage pulsated with anticipation as The Vindys primed the eager crowd. The set was short but energetic, and quickly transitioned into the main show.

An electric storm was detonated as the rock duel Benatar – Giraldo were greeted by a thunderous crowd. Strobes flashed like lightning across a back lit stage as the Rock and Roll legends gave awe inspiring performances. Filled the evening with storytelling, reminiscing and powerful performances.

The set list was a beautiful mix of 80’s hits, unfamiliar tunes, and remixed classic songs. Breathing new life into favorite songs and giving them a bluesy, soulful sound. Early into the show Jackie Popovec accompanied Pat Benatar on stage for songs In These Times and We Belong. The two women vocally melted together to recreate remarkable new renditions of old hits.

The evening ended with a roaring drum solo and a medley. Blending artfully Johnny Cash’s Ring of Fire with her song Heartbreaker.

As the crowds dissipated through the casino halls, fans gushed over the experience. Woman admitted to idolizing Pat Benatar’s persona and talent, men reminiscing about past shows, and everyone left awestruck. Knowing that they were in the presence of greatness.

Don’t fret if you missed this show. The Benatar – Giraldo team will be returning to New York May 21, to perform at the Palace Theatre in Albany and again on October 30t with Canadian musician Bryan Adams at Madison Square Garden.

Setlist: All Fired Up, Invincible, Ties That Bind, Promises in the Dark, In These Times (With Jackie Popovec), We Belong (With Jackie Popovec), Come Together (New song), River of Love, Go, Shadows of the Night, Hell Is for Children, You Better Run, Love Is a Battlefield

Encore: Disconnected, Everybody Lay Down, Heartbreaker / Ring of Fire / Heartbreaker