Concert Review: The Psychedelic Furs

The innovative stand out 1980s English rock band, the Psychedelic Furs played metro Detroit Michigan's Royal Oak Music Theater Thursday night, June 10th of 2010. Lead singer Richard ButlerRichard Butler's raspy voice was both artful and mesmerizing, as the band gave him able backing.

It was never fair that the Psychedelic Furs were somehow lumped in with the whole 1980s nostalgia train, because the band was without question above the fray.

The Psychedelic FursThe Psychedelic Furs were at their onset, a step forward in the evolution of punk rock, as evidenced by their 1980 self titled debut album. As they progressed, the band's debts to David Bowie and Roxy Music could be heard. Both artistic and soulful, theirs was a beautifully harnessed noise.

The Psychedelic Furs were launched to international attention in 1986 when director/ writer John HughesJohn Hughes borrowed their song title "Pretty in Pink" for his movie of the same name. By the mid 1980s, the band had become a staple of both U.S. college and modern rock radio stations.

The band split in the early 1990s, but re-formed in 2001. Bassist Tim Butler joins singer and brother Richard Butler in the band.

This night's opening band She Wants Revenge owes a debt to 1980s dance acts like New Order and Depeche Mode.

The Psychedelic Furs opened their set with the brilliant song "Love My Way" from the album "Forever Now". The song features Richard Butler's stark ballad style. The singer sounded great as he delivered the lyrics "Love my way. It's a new road. I follow where my mind goes." Butler's signature rasp was velvety, coarse and soothing all at once.

A few songs in, the band played a lovely version of "Ghost In You". The band was tight and the energy vibrant. Soon there was a rocking rendition of "President Gas", the Psychedelic Furs ode to political cynicism. The sextet's performance featured some powerful saxophone playing by Mars Williams.

The compelling "Sister Europe" was gorgeous, featuring rich textured singing. An uplifting version of "Heaven" was followed by "Pretty in Pink"- the legendary tune with the Psychedelic Furs signature melodic hook.

A strong set list included "Forever Now" as Richard Butler's voice went straight to the soul.

On this night in concert, the Psychedelic Furs captured their vintage music of the 1980s without ever sounding dated.