August 15 2015

Irvine, California – On a sweltering Southern California summer day, the historic Irvine Meadows Amphitheater played host to the rebirth of the legendary Cathouse Club, resurrected in the form of Cathouse Live. The heat was relentless, but so was the lineup, delivering a sonic onslaught of 80s rock that ignited the stage and the hearts of the dedicated fans who flocked to this iconic venue.

The day kicked off with the ferocious sounds of Swamphammer, winners of last month’s Battle Of The Bands. Their electrifying performance set the tone for what would become a marathon of rock ‘n’ roll. Following suit, BulletBoys took the stage, showcasing their prowess and receiving well-deserved praise for their recent album, “Elefante.” Marq Torien’s powerhouse vocals resonated through the amphitheater, proving that BulletBoys still command the stage with an unwavering energy that left an indelible mark on the audience.

As the rotating stage kept the momentum alive, the musical journey continued with Trixter, Black N Blue, Autograph, Junkyard, Saigon Kick, L.A. Guns, Dangerous Toys, and Faster Pussycat. The crowd, now fully immersed in the spirit of the Cathouse revival, began to swell with energy, a testament to the enduring legacy of Riki Rachtman and the cathartic power of rock music.

Faster Pussycat, led by Taime Downe, a key figure in the Cathouse’s genesis, brought the audience to a fever pitch. The hits echoed through the amphitheater, creating an atmosphere of pure rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia. The energy soared as Faster Pussycat reminded everyone why they are icons of the genre.

The stage continued to host legendary acts like Ratt’s Stephen Pearcy, who delivered a set filled with anthems like “Lay It Down” and “Round And Round.” Dokken, despite facing technical difficulties, powered through with classics like “Breaking The Chains” and “In My Dreams,” leaving an indomitable imprint on the crowd.

Sebastian Bach, the charismatic frontman, emerged with a vengeance, belting out timeless classics like “18 and Life” and “Youth Gone Wild.” His commanding stage presence and the collective glow of illuminated smartphones created a visually stunning spectacle, epitomizing the communal spirit of rock concerts.

The pinnacle of the event arrived with Tom Keifer of Cinderella, whose rendition of Joe Cocker’s “With a Little Help From My Friends” became a poignant and unifying moment. The connection between the bands, the audience, and everyone involved was tangible, turning the amphitheater into a sanctuary of shared memories and mutual appreciation for the timeless power of music.

Extreme, with their hits like “Decadence Dance” and “More Than Words,” proved that their musical prowess has only deepened with time. Gary Cherone’s vocals and Nuno Bettencourt’s guitar wizardry showcased the enduring quality of their craft.

As the curfew loomed, the bands defied convention, playing on with the rotating stage moving to the back, delivering a grand finale that etched Cathouse Live into the annals of history.

For those fortunate enough to have experienced the original Cathouse in its heyday, envy is the emotion of the day. Rachtman’s decision to breathe life back into this historic institution provided a prescription for 80s rock withdrawal, offering a glimpse into the heavenly debauchery and music that defined an era.

Despite minor technical hiccups, the bands demonstrated unwavering commitment to their craft. Rock ‘n’ roll, as showcased by these timeless acts, is not just a genre; it’s a way of life. The brilliance of this juxtaposition of bands and music ensures that Cathouse Live will be remembered as a triumphant celebration of a bygone era—one that we hope Rachtman will bring back, connecting fans old and new to the world of Cathouse.

Everything may have its end, but rock ‘n’ roll, as demonstrated at Cathouse Live, defies mortality, remaining eternally relevant and timeless. The event proved that rock ‘n’ roll, at its core, is not just music; it’s a perpetual force, a beacon of youth, movement, and life—a force that, as witnessed at Irvine Meadows, never has to die and never will.