August 12 2023

In the glitzy realm where the vibrant lights of the Las Vegas Strip meet the raw energy of rock, Steel Panther recently commandeered the stage at the House of Blues, delivering a performance that transcended parody and embraced the heart-pounding essence of glam metal.

Fifteen years have passed since Steel Panther transformed from Metal Skool, shifting their focus from ’80s metal covers to crafting their own originals. In a recent interview with Germany’s Rock Antenne, Michael Starr, the band’s charismatic frontman, addressed questions about the perception of their act as a parody. “I love playing heavy metal. It’s the most exciting job in the world for me,” Starr proclaimed. “I’ve always dreamed about being on stage and going all over the world with my buddies to play for people who love our music. It’s really cool.”

Reflecting on the journey from rejection to triumph, Starr shared the band’s decision to be true to themselves. “We were, like, ‘You know what? Fuck it! We’re gonna sing about what we wanna sing about. We’re gonna sing about what we’re thinking.’ And once we did that, we got signed right away, and we put out ‘Death To All But Metal,’ and the rest is history.”

As a journalist immersed in the world of rock, witnessing Steel Panther’s spectacle at the House of Blues was an electrifying experience. The venue, a sonic temple nestled in the heart of Vegas, became a haven for fans seeking the unapologetic allure of glam-infused metal.

The setlist, a concoction of Steel Panther’s signature anthems and classic hits, was a testament to the band’s evolution and enduring appeal. From the infectious energy of “Community Property” to the rebellious anthem “Death to All But Metal,” the night was a journey through the very fabric of glam metal’s audacious spirit.

The House of Blues, an iconic venue in a city that thrives on spectacle, proved to be the perfect backdrop for Steel Panther’s brand of musical revelry. The stage became an altar, and the audience, fervent devotees in the congregation of glam metal, reveled in every note.

Michael Starr, Satchel, Lexxi Foxx, and Stix Zadinia delivered a performance that seamlessly blended musical prowess with the irreverent charm that defines Steel Panther. The crowd, an eclectic mix of die-hard fans and those newly initiated into the Panther fold, collectively surrendered to the pulsating beats and infectious hooks.

As the night unfolded, it became evident that Steel Panther’s essence transcends categorization. More than a parody or an homage, they are, as Starr asserted in the interview, “Steel Panther at the end of the day.” The audience, too captivated by the sonic onslaught to worry about labels, embraced the experience with unbridled enthusiasm.

In the neon-lit expanse of Las Vegas, Steel Panther emerged victorious. Their performance at the House of Blues was not just a concert; it was a celebration of the enduring spirit of glam metal. As a journalist, I found myself immersed in a world where the boundaries between parody and authenticity blurred, and what remained was the unassailable truth — the undeniable power of Steel Panther to rock the house and keep the spirit of glam metal alive and kicking.

The group’s music has been described as “VAN HALEN meets MÖTLEY CRÜE meets RATT meets ‘Wayne’s World’, complete with operatic shrieks, misogyny, shredding guitar solos and libidinal overdrive.”