Eighteen years strong and still belting out memorable tunes, the only tribute band officially recognized by Aerosmith is coming to town.
Bob Myers, the director of John R. Emens Auditorium and Pruis Hall, said he is excited to bring Draw the Line to campus Friday evening for Family Weekend.
"I wanted to find something that would be exciting and engaging for the student body, but more importantly for their parents during Family Weekend," Myers said.
Coming from Boston, Draw the Line draws from the roots that drove Aerosmith to its past and current success. Through extensive interaction with the audience, a powerful character dramatization, and sticking to the true forms and mannerisms of Aerosmith, Draw the Line pulls off a show that "provides consistent ticket sales and a production that delivers," said Bob DuTeau from Live Nation, according to the band's website.
What sets apart this powerful act is the lead vocalist Neill Byrnes, who comes off as a look-alike of Steven Tyler. Byrnes met Tyler at a look-alike contest, and Tyler was impressed by his sheer talent and proceeded to refer Byrnes to his personal voice coach Mark Baxter. Byrnes spent 10 years in vocal training with Baxter while attending Northeastern University, continuing past graduation. Although he has received his degree cum laude in psychology, Byrnes continues on with Draw the Line and perfects his trade by pursuing acting opportunities.
The show provides an experience that brings the characters of Aerosmith to life and embodies flashbacks of the '70s, the atmosphere of the '80s and the enthusiasm of the '90s.
In addition to Byrnes providing the vocals, Draw the Line consists of guitarist Patrick Benti, bassist Steve Lyon, guitarist Jim Dennis and drummer Phil Cefalo.
Myers said he hopes to have a sold-out auditorium to check out the performance.
"Aerosmith is an iconic rock band whose heyday quite probably coincides with the teenage ears of today's students' parents," Myers said. "Last year's Michael Jackson tribute was a big hit, and we hope this will follow suit."
This fall, Draw the Line went to Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Illinois. After Friday's show, it will head to New Hampshire, Connecticut and back to Massachusetts.
What: Draw The Line concert
When: 8:00 p.m. Friday
Where: John R. Emens Auditorium
Cost: $15 for adults, $5 for youth and $5 for students
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