RECAP: “The Legendary Voices of Rock” @ Capitol Theatre (Rome), 10/18/2024

Written by Staff on October 22, 2024

Words and Photography by Stephanie J Bartik.

ROME, NY – The intimate setting of the Capitol Theater played host to a magical evening on Friday, October 18, as rock legends Ben Hans, Anthony Corder (the voice of Tora Tora), and Danny Vaughn (known for his work with Waysted, Tyketto, Vaughn, and as a former lead singer of the Ultimate Eagles) came together for a truly special performance. Opening the night were local musicians Roy Coston & Chuck Heath of LoveBone, celebrating 22 years of music.

While each performer is well-known for their powerful vocals and masterful musicianship, this show offered something unique — a storytelling session that let the audience experience a more personal side of these seasoned artists. The Capitol Theater, with its elegant charm and intimate layout, provided the perfect atmosphere for this format, allowing the audience to feel connected not just to the music but to the stories behind it.

Roy Coston and Chuck Heath set the tone for the evening, showcasing their local pride and skill as they warmed up the crowd with acoustic renditions that demonstrated their technical proficiency and passion for music. Coston, a fixture on the local music scene, together with Heath, opened the night with heartfelt performances that reflected their talent.

As the headliners took the stage, the night took on a different energy. Ben Hans, Anthony Corder, and Danny Vaughn didn’t just deliver powerhouse vocals and captivating guitar riffs — they invited the audience into their world through storytelling. It felt less like a concert and more like an evening spent with friends, hearing tales of life on the road, the struggles and triumphs of the music industry, and the personal moments that shaped the songs we’ve come to love.

Anthony Corder, stood out not only for his incredible vocal range but for his genuine connection with the crowd. Known for his time with Tora Tora, Corder’s ability to blend blues and rock with heartfelt emotion was on full display. He shared anecdotes about the early days of Tora Tora, their inspirations, and how some of their biggest hits came to life, as well as a bit of his home town of Avalon, Mississippi, where Mississippi John Hurt was also born. His stories were punctuated with acoustic versions of classic songs that at times had the audience singing along, transported back in time.

Danny Vaughn, with his rich musical history spanning from Waysted to Tyketto and beyond, brought a wealth of experience to the stage. Vaughn’s stories were just as compelling as his performances, recounting his journey through the various phases of his career and reflecting on the lessons he’s learned along the way. His voice was as powerful as ever, proving why he remains a beloved figure in the rock world.

The highlight of the night came when Ben Hans, Danny Vaughn, and Anthony Corder took the stage together. The chemistry between the three musicians was undeniable, and their harmonies filled the theater with a magic that words can hardly describe. Their collective performance felt like a rare moment of musical synergy, the kind of moment that only happens when truly great artists come together to share their passion with an audience.

As the final notes echoed through the Capitol Theater, the audience was left not just with memories of incredible music, but with a deeper appreciation for the stories behind the songs and the artists who bring them to life. This was more than just a concert — it was a shared experience, a connection between performers and audience that won’t soon be forgotten.