UK group The Wanted broke big in 2009, and have not looked back since. After achieving two platinum selling albums, 2013 brought the band’s newest hit-making effort Word of Mouth. Starting off their Word of Mouth 2014 Tour, in their native land back in March, on April 8th at The Paramount in Huntington, NY the North American leg kicked off with special guests Cassio Monroe and Midnight Red. Packing the room, a young vital fan base were chirping about which member of The Wanted is their favorite and ready for the fun to begin.
Opening up were Nashville, TN duo known as Cassio Monroe. Consisting of Tripp Weir and Jeff Garrison, their coupling of musical talents mixes pop dance, some funk, and hip hop flavor. For many in attendance, seeing Cassio Monroe live was a new experience, as most had only seen their music videos on YouTube. Engaged in the performance the audience smiled and indulged in the strong singing and smooth dance moves. Both performers seemed comfortable on stage and provided no let down for adoring fans. Upon the conclusion of their opening set, Weir and Garrison were spotted showing appreciation to their fans by taking photos with them and signing autographs.
Next up were the five-piece singing group called Midnight Red. Having a successful run touring with super-group NKOTBSB in 2011, they are ready to make their biggest mark with a debut album slated for this year. Taking the stage with tons of energy, Midnight Red’s sound is sparked with some rock and electronic elements. Each member held their own, singing at high levels showing their tremendous talents. Adding to the excitement of the music a solid backing band of keyboards, bass, guitar, and drums evoked a great rock feeling. Playing a list of songs including covers of Rihanna’s “Diamonds”, their hit “Take Me Home”, and “Hell Yeah” were just a few highlights of their performance. The audience responded with hands in the air, singing along, and occasional dancing. These guys have a lot going for them and it will be interesting to hear their album once it is released in the next few months.
After two solid opening acts it was time for The Wanted to take the stage. Already having four anthemic Top Five singles and two Number Ones, The Wanted are one of the hottest groups in pop music today. The group of Max George, Siva Kaneswaran, Jay McGuiness, Tom Parker, and Nathan Sykes announced after this tour they will be taking a hiatus from performing. While this may come as a disappointment to many, it also makes for a much higher anticipation for fans longing to see the guys live in action. With the room about to explode with tension, The Wanted was ready to show The Paramount what they are made of.
Taking off with a bang, the guys opened with “Gold Forever”, “Glow In The Dark”, and “In The Middle”. Moving about the stage like lightning flashing, their enthusiasm sent shock waves from the front all the way to the back balcony. Each member proved they are not just a studio group, singing their hearts out hitting each note perfectly. Fans belted out scream after scream and reveled in the music as songs like “Lightning”, “Running Out Of Reasons”, “Demons”, and “Could This Be Love” came one after another, keeping the party-like vibe flowing.
It appeared this crowd was not just here for the hits, singing and showing the same energy level through each song. Each member of the group showed great stage presence as they bounced around with some slick body moves. They interacted with the crowd and knew exactly how to keep the pace going without low points. As if the performance was not already filled with thrills, The Wanted came on full force pumping out hit after hit with “Walks Like Rihanna”, “Chasing the Sun”, “I Found You”, and “We Own The Night”. It was like having your own personal radio station playing all your favorite tunes. Unwilling to let the night fade, the wall of cheers poured down on the stage as The Wanted exited. Moments later they returned for a massive encore of “All Time Low” and mega hit “Glad You Came”. Looking at the faces of the youth in the room you could see the glowing exhilaration in their smiles. This will be a performance they will remember for the rest of their lives, and with a little patience, The Wanted vow they will return to the stage again soon.
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