VIXEN – LIVE AT THE WOLF DEN IN THE MOHEGAN SUN CASINO
By Mandy Reid
On Friday June 16th, as I was preparing to see the band, Vixen at Mohegan Sun, I found myself taking a little extra time to get ready. Kind of like, a first-time date night. I mean have you seen these ladies?? They are so stunning, beautiful and all so very smart, talented, and intelligent. Vixen is an all-female heavy rock band from Saint Paul, Minnesota, that was formed in the 1980s. The band hit the big time when they were signed to a major label and released their first album in 1988 entitled Vixen. They aren’t new to me. I grew up listening to them as many of my contemporaries did but I am more drawn to this band now than ever. So an extra swipe of lip gloss was called for.
Looking back over my most impressionable years, I realized that many in my circle happened to be strong, successful women. Although probably not realizing it, I always admired women who exuded confidence and insane talents. Their inspirations leaving bright pathways that infiltrate everyday life. Just when you need it the most. And over time, their influence and grace has helped shape me and so many other women into who we are. Thank you, Vixen for this treasured gift. Now time for the accolades!!
Like with many other bands, Vixen has experienced significant line up-changes. As fans get older, the likelihood bands will change and evolve their sound over time is a reality. Vixen has changed their lineup considerably, bringing new members into the fold as others leave. But at no cost of Vixen sounding less than incredible. The only remaining member of Vixen‘s “classic” lineup is drummer Roxy Petrucci. She is joined in the band by singer Lorraine Lewis, bassist Julia Lage and guitarist Britt Lightning (a.k.a. Brittany Denaro).
Vixen infiltrated the infamous Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun and performed 12 high-energy songs with an octane level of a million-plus!! Coming out strong with “Rev It Up”. The incomparable Lorraine Lewis, formerly lead of Femme Fatale, gave an incredible performance. Lorraine is no stranger to the stage. She is a platinum performer and easily commands a rockin’ crowd. Her force is infectious and there were smiles and fist pumping aplenty. Lorraine has been the voice of Vixen since she joined the L.A.-based rock legends in 2019, replacing the super- talented Janet Gardner. Lorraine is a consummate professional who connects with the crowd like no other and got the rocking crowd primed for the remaining 90 mins with pure unparalleled coolness. It definitely earned her the title crown of the night, “Vixen”.
The 4th song in, “Cruisin” was like a blast of adrenaline you feel when you are experiencing “Fight or Flight” Syndrome. This in-your-face- song really showcases Roxy Petrucci’s’ undeniable and magnetic talent as an expert musician. Roxy’s bass and snare drums took a major beating as she showcased her thunderous drumming abilities to perfection. Roxy was raised in a family of talented musicians and if you witnessed Friday’s performance, you can see it is in her DNA. She is also a song composer and plays a part in the vocals. Roxy is truly the “heartbeat” and legend of the band. If I ever come back to this world-I’m going to be Roxy, her stage wardrobe and all.
One of my absolute favorite songs they performed is “Rock Me”. Brittany Denaro, was just electrifying during this song. She is known professionally as Britt Lightning and is one of the best guitarists in the crop of current day talent. My guitar heroes of past and present typically have been male, but Brittany and Julia prove “guitar heroes” have no labels attached. Musical aptitude encompasses inclusive and diverse talents across all genders. I wonder if Brittany developed her slick guitar skills from her mom, whom I had the pleasure of meeting. Beauty and coolness doesn’t fall far from the tree. Whether it’s Brittany or the other band members, there’s a lot to be said for humbling yourself and learning from these amazing women and their dynamic performances. They are living out their rocker dreams and their insights on success are invaluable.
Early in 2022, longtime and beloved VIXEN bassist Share Ross had announced that she was “taking a hiatus” from the band. Her replacement Julia Lage, formerly of the Latin Grammy nominated Brazilian rock group BARRA DE SAIA and wife of Richie Kotzen. She made her live debut with VIXEN on February 8 at the pre-Monsters Of Rock cruise concert at the Magic City Casino in Miami, Florida. Friday’s performance was the 2nd time I had the pleasure of seeing Julia perform with the current line up and she did not disappoint. The band’s chemistry is enigmatic, and they are super tight. It seemed as if they have been playing in unison for years. It’s no wonder Ross gave a huge thumbs up to her replacement.
Finally, rounding the band is the multi-instrumentalist, UBER talented and only male band member of the all-female rock band Vixen, Tyson Leslie! In 2017, he became keyboardist and tour manager for the rock band. Tyson is also the first of Vixen‘s keyboardists to be visibly prominent on stage. His talents were notable during the medley of the Rush/Sabbath/WhiteSnake snippets about three-quarters into the live performance. Tyson, like me, is adopted, and I appreciate his incredible journey to land where he is today He is continually stretching his artistic talents, nationally and beyond. Tyson is not only a phenomenal keyboardist for Vixen, but he also has many other musical projects he spearheads, like The Rare Hare which has become a cult favorite amongst all monster musicians alike.
No Vixen performance is ever complete without hearing their iconic song “Edge Of A Broken Heart” which they saved for last. This power ballad was clearly a house favorite that night. Any human being that has a pulse knows these words by heart as the lyrics are timeless. As their closure song, it was a great way for Vixen to keep the audience engaged. Their 90 minute energy-fueled performance exploded with consistent excellence. Truly, an outstanding performance from all band members!! And as always, Wolf Den’s house sound engineer, Curt Wade, delivered flawlessly and contributed to the amazing production.
The band took time to meet and greet their fans. About half of them in line showing their loyalty and wearing “Vixen” attire and holding nostalgic items for signing.
All young female musician just starting out in the business question what is it that successful female musicians do differently that sets them apart, I think the best way to find that answer is to experience bands like Vixen. Surround yourself with human beings that are amazing at life. Watch them as they perform live. By being so vivacious and spirited, Vixen pushes us to be remarkable as well!
Vixen have a busy Summer and Fall Tour schedule. Check them out if you want to stay connected to your 80’s roots, or if for the first time, want to experience a freaking astounding live performance by an amazing group of professional musicians!
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