By Teri Kinne and Valerie Milano
Coachella Valley, CA (The Hollywood Times) 2/8/25 – Cheap Trick, the rock band whose hits spanned from the late 1970s through the 1990s, delivered an electrifying performance last night at the Spotlight 29 Casino Showroom, Coachella. The February 7th show demonstrated that the band’s signature blend of new wave rock ‘n’ roll and punk energy remains as potent as ever.
The intimate venue, which accommodated approximately 400 attendees, provided an ideal setting for the 8:00 PM performance. Despite the Spotlight Showroom’s 2,200-seat capacity, the strategic stage setup created an atmosphere that allowed for close interaction between the band and their multi-generational audience. The crowd was comprised of an eclectic mix: resort-dwelling couples, casino regulars, and notably younger fans experiencing Cheap Trick live for the first time alongside devoted followers who grew up with the band’s music.
The current lineup features original members Robin Zander (lead vocals), Rick Nielsen (lead guitar), and Tom Petersson (bass), joined by Daxx Nielsen (drums), who has replaced original drummer Bun E. Carlos. Each brought their distinct personality to the stage. Zander, dressed in SoCal formal wear—a silk shirt, full white suit, and wide-brimmed hat—presented a grounded, deliberate presence. The ever-playful Nielsen maintained his rebellious spirit, launching guitar picks into the crowd while showcasing an array of custom guitars, including a striking yellow one adorned with The Beatles’ portrait and one shaped like an alto saxophone.
Petersson, initially reserved, came alive during his, featured number “I Know What I Want (And I Know How to Get It)”, with his performance growing increasingly animated as the song progressed. The younger Nielsen proved a dynamic force behind the drums, maintaining the band’s signature energy throughout the set.
The show went well. We were impressed with the venue’s quality acoustics and live visual projections. This enhanced the experience and demonstrated the casino’s commitment to professional entertainment presentation.
The merchandise booth saw significant action, with longtime fans purchasing shirts before the show. And post-show, the merchandise line stretched even longer, as newly energized audience members sought souvenirs of the night’s performance.
The Spotlight 29 Casino, operated by the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians, provided seamless event management, from complimentary valet service to efficient ticketing and security. Ticket prices ranged from $50 to $150.
Set List:
Dream Police
Hello There
Just Got Back
Hot Love
In the Street (Big Star cover)
Voices
Ain’t That a Shame (Fats Domino cover)
High Roller
Need Your Love
Magical Mystery Tour (The Beatles cover)
I Know What I Want
The Flame
I Want You To Want Me
Auf Wiedersehen
Encore:
California Man (The Move cover)
Surrender
Goodnight
The concert proved that Cheap Trick, formed in Rockford, Illinois, in 1973 continues to deliver the high-energy performances that earned them their place in rock history. Their masterful blend of classic hits and cover songs left the Coachella Valley audience with an unforgettable evening of rock ‘n’ roll.
For those who missed this memorable night, a glimpse of the concert’s energy can be seen in the following video:
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