Key Highlights
- The Pretenders performed two sold-out shows in Chrissie Hynde’s hometown, Akron, Ohio.
- The band focused on their recent albums ‘Relentless’ and ‘Hate for Sale’ as well as classics from their debut album.
- Chrissie Hynde addressed the crowd’s cell phone use with witty remarks, creating a more engaged live experience.
- They also opened for the Foo Fighters in Cincinnati, delivering a powerful and nostalgic performance.
**(livesinsight.com) -** The Pretenders, led by the indomitable Chrissie Hynde, have once again proven why they remain a staple in rock music. Their recent tour through Ohio, which included two headlining shows in Akron and an opening set for the Foo Fighters in Cincinnati, was nothing short of spectacular. From the emotional connection to Hynde’s hometown to dynamic performances that spanned their decades-long career, these concerts encapsulated the enduring appeal of the band. Hynde’s candid interaction with the audience, particularly her successful effort to have fans put away their cellphones, added a layer of intimacy rarely seen in today’s concert experiences. The Pretenders’ ability to blend new material with classic hits while maintaining an electrifying stage presence solidifies their place as rock icons.
Homecoming Triumph: Akron Shows
Chrissie Hynde and The Pretenders kicked off their Ohio tour with two spellbinding performances at the Goodyear Theater in Akron, Hynde’s hometown. The concerts, both sold out, were a testament to the band’s enduring popularity and relevance. Hynde, who posted a nostalgic photo of herself in front of her childhood home on social media, was visibly moved by the hometown crowd. The setlists for these shows were a well-balanced mix of the band’s latest work and their timeless classics. Key tracks from their recent albums, ‘Relentless’ (2023) and ‘Hate for Sale’ (2020), were prominently featured alongside beloved songs from their 1980 self-titled debut. The band’s current lineup, particularly guitarist James Walbourne, brought a fresh and invigorating energy to the performances. Walbourne’s guitar work added muscle, depth, and texture to each song, making the familiar tracks feel new again. Highlights included