Xtreme Muzik Tour: featuring Big & Rich, Gretchen Wilson, Seneca Allegany Casino, Salamanca, NY - August 6, 2011
Monday, August 15, 2011 at 7:36AM 
Review and photos by Diana MacDonald
Although RockMusicStar.com mainly features groups from the classic rock/hard rock/metal scene, we truly believe there are 'rock stars' in all forms of music. It would be remiss to not include stars with amazing showmanship and true musical integrity, just because they don't fall into a specific musical category. For this review, we ventured out to the Seneca Allegany Casino (the sister casino to Seneca Niagara) to see the Xtreme Muzik tour, starring the original 'Muzik Mafia' Big & Rich, Gretchen Wilson, and special guest, Cowboy Troy. This was the first Country show that I have ever attended, and I have to say I was very impressed with the quality of the stage production, as well as the music itself. I thought the updated, metallic ol' western stage set was great, as it included a shot bar (which was used several times throughout the show), and a set of saloon swinging doors. The lighting and the sound system in the Events Center was outstanding. 
The first thing I noticed which was unique about this show is that the artists on the bill did not perform separate sets, as they all performed a near two hour set, together, as one big band. Not being too familiar with all of the songs played really didn't make a difference to me, as the performers were all so good, and their talents shined throughout the show. I did however, recognize some of the fan favorites when Gretchen Wilson took lead on "Redneck Woman," and when Big & Rich played their hit, "Save a Horse," as I had heard these songs being played by some friends of mine, who are heavily into Country music.
Although all of the songs were really fun, and we all had a good time listening to them while watching the band, there were definitely a handful of songs that seemed to REALLY go over with the crowd. I think my personal favorites were Big & Rich's patriotic "8th of November," and Gretchen's "Here For the Party." I have to add, to make things even more interesting, the set included Cowboy Troy taking center stage, rapping to a countrified version of the Red Hot Chili Pepper's classic, "Give It Away."
All in all, I think covering this concert was an excellent introduction to the modern day Country show. I was pleasantly surprised by the fine line that exists (and sometimes gets blurred) between a Country gig and your standard 'Rock' concert. It was definitely a great way to start off doing Country reviews for myself, and for the website as a whole. Honestly, I loved the show, as well as the beautiful casino in which I was allowed to have this amazing time. I would go to see these wonderful performers again with out hesitation, as should you all, if you like to mix in a little Country with your Rock and Roll.
Thomas