If you’re an ’80s baby like me, then you most likely grew up listening to the same jams as your parents — you know, good old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll. Even today, when I hear an oldie song on the radio I get excited, which is why I was psyched to see The Hit Men, featuring members of Frankie Valli’s The Four Seasons in New York last week. Jersey Boys brought awesome, classic tunes to Broadway and told the story of the unique and successful high-pitched singing band and The Hit Men actually features two original members — Gerry Polci and Lee Shapiro. Polci sang the lead vocals on “Dec. 63, Oh What a Night!” and both members toured the world and recorded numerous hits with the band. These former Seasons reunited along with an A-list group of musicians and bandmates — Jimmy Ryan, Larry Gates, and Russ Valazquez — the likes of which recorded and performed with legends Carly Simon, Elton John, Cat Stevens and The Ramones.
The epic show at Town Hall brought together a crowd of all ages, all eager to see the band perform their favorite hits from back in the day. And what a show it was. I felt bad for those sitting near me, as I was belting out the lyrics to every song with no shame…and I am not a good singer. The best part of the evening was the spontaneous dance party near the end of the show when the songs were just so good, the whole audience was on their feet boogying down.
The Hit Men are all over the country this year and next, so follow their schedule and make sure you get the chance to see these guys in action. Their heydays are definitely not behind them.
