TESLA Brings “Keepin’ It Real” Tour to House of Blues in Orlando, Florida on March 7, 2025

March 18, 2025
Central Florida Concert Reviews, Central Florida Galleries, International Concert Reviews, International Galleries
by Johnnie Crow Photographer / Writer

TESLA rocked a packed House of Blues in Orlando, Florida on March 7, 2025, as part of their “Keepin’ It Real” tour. Fastest Land Animal opened the show, before making way for the main attraction. TESLA had an incredible set list, which included two new songs and a cover off of their latest EP All About Love.

Fastest Land Animal was the only supporting act for this concert. They are an eclectic blend of various rock and punk styles. The crowd did not quite know what to make of them. They were energetic, but maybe not the best fit. It would have been great if one of the bands about to join Tesla on the Monsters of Rock Cruise had been able to start the show-off.

Fastest Land Animal:

Screaming’ Jack Novak: Vocals

Shark Samuels: Drums

Alfonse Castillo: Guitar, Bass

Fastest Land Animal Setlist:

1. Run and Hide

2. Too Close To The Fire

3. Answer In My Head

4. Bubble Candy

5. Girl Like You

6. Can’t Get Away

7. Fourteen

8. I Try

9. Out of Range

10. Cowboys in Nashville

11. Next To You (The Police cover)

TESLA took the stage to thunderous applause. They played a musical intro, which sounded like someone changing the dial on an old FM radio, with snippets of songs from throughout their history being played. This put the crowd in the perfect state of mind for this show, which featured songs from across the years. They played for close to two hours, pleasing fans with their choices, as evidenced by the singing along and cheers.

The set list this evening was magical perfection. They knocked it right out of the park to start the show, going old school with “Rock Me to the Top”, “Modern Day Cowboy” and “Hang Tough”. They then dropped a new single “All About Love” and a new cover of the James Gang “Walk Away”, both of which cement their status as a working rock band who show no signs of slowing down. Hardcore fans were thrilled with some deeper cuts such as “Forever More”, “Miles Away”, “Call It What You Want” and “Song and Emotion”. They dedicated that to old friend Steve “Steamin” Clark of Def Leppard. They dedicated “What You Give” to the United States military. They showed their softer side with “Changes” and an acoustic version of “Paradise”. The night closed on the highest of highs with a final barrage of “Love Song”, “Little Suzi” and “Signs”, leaving everyone completely satisfied and thrilled with the performance.

TESLA has always been a band that excels on the stage. They give as much energy and love today as they have every step of the way. They clearly have fun performing and interacting with everyone in attendance, which spreads joy all around the building. Jeff Keith always has a huge smile on his face, and messages of love to share. New drummer Steve Brown is a perfect fit, combining with bassist Brian Wheat to keep the beat driving forward, and on time. Wheat shows his versatility with his backing vocals as well as taking a beautiful turn on the piano for an acoustic version of “Paradise”. Guitarists Frank Hannon and Dave Rude are the perfect rock and roll duo, playing multiple guitars, trading off parts, and making all of the classic guitar faces along the way. They love making noise and they love to show off, and the crowd eats it up. Once again, TESLA nailed it and they are a band you could watch every night and be happy.

TESLA:

Frank Hannon: Guitars, Backing Vocals