SLADE / FELT FORUM, NEW YORK 31st MAY 1974
Most of the youthful crowd at [the] Felt Forum, N.Y., Friday (31), were up from the outset, many holding their ears to cut out part of the overpowering volume. Slade, who sold out the 4,500-seat arena for promoter Howard Stein, were rockin’ and exhorting their fans to make noise.
But since Slade had passed the threshold of pain at the beginning, the throng could never outdo them.
Actually, the audience included many on their feet as the concert began with Aerosmith, Columbia disk act from Boston, who had one of their best local turns, especially lead vocalist Steven Tyler and lead guitarist Joe Perry. Aisles were quickly clogged never to be cleared.
But when the British headliners came out, even those in front orchestra seats had difficulty seeing, though standing on their chairs and others stood on arm rests. And Slade, especially ever-screeching Noddy Holder, the lead vocalist, loved every minute.
Holder tried to get all on their feet, all clapping along, all shouting. Most responded, knowing how to take orders. Lead guitarist Dave Hill and bass guitarist Jim Lea stood on amplifiers at times, enabling them to be seen better. Drummer Don Powell completed the Warner Bros. disk quartet, who were in too loud form.
Slade fans are willing to put up with a lot, judging by the happy faces leaving the hall, several still with their hands over their ears. No one sleeps at a Slade concert.
Kirb. - Variety - 5/6/74