Kowloon hosts a summer concert series – Back to the 80s! 5 stars!
The government shutdowns will long be what dominates the early 2020s when it comes to history. We will remember that theatres, restaurants and entertainment venues were all closed by decree. For a brief time, the warmth of gathering with fellows and going out was denied to all. For those that loved to get out into a crowd, it was a dismal time. Yet, this legacy still lingers in a positive manner.
Kowloon, the larger-than-life Tiki bar on Route one in Saugus, continues to have outdoor entertainment in its back parking lot. Initially this was done to re-open when indoor dining was still not allowed. However, it has continued to be a great success to this day. Why not allow folks to come and enjoy some of the best Asian food under the stars. But even better – let’s play live music!
Kowloon has a summer series of music and concerts to entertain the folks who come to have fun and food. They have hosted some well-known acts, recently having the rock n roll legends the Coasters, The Drifters and the Platters play. They have had tribute bands that emulated Neil Diamond and the Beetles. They have country music nights, DJs and Bingo! Truly something for everyone.
Today we fired up our DeLorean and hit 88 miles an hour! We are going back to the 80s! Yes, the band is called Back to the 80s. And they do not disappoint. To begin with, they are decked out in the finest of 80s fashion. The guitarists are sporting the tightest of tight spandex. They don massive 80s “Big Hair” coifs to do their best head banging. The lady lead singer is evoking her best punk rock look decked out in skintight black leather.
Speaking of the lead singers, it should be noted that there are two. One male and one female. This allows them to cover tunes from not just the boy bands, but also the many female fronted acts that were pervasive throughout the decade. The singer did an absolute amazing job emulating the voices of famous singers like Tina Turner and Pat Benatar. With such talent, that means if it was played in the 80s, it’s on the table tonight!
The songs were long ranging. If you are a fan of glam metal, they had plenty. If you liked new wave, they had that too. Pop hits were plenty. We heard Michael Jackson, Prince, Van Halen, Madonna, Queen, White Snake and AC/DC. If you remember the 80s, then one of these songs would have brought you back to the past. If you are just a fan too young to remember the decade of decadence, then this is a great musical history lesson.
What made this night truly energetic was the enormous crowd. There are no tickets for all but the most select seating, so you can simply show up and enjoy the show. However, the parking lot was packed as was the outdoor venue. There was a line to get a table, so either pay for a reserved table or come early.
The audience was just as much a part of the show as the band was. Many came dressed in 80s band shirts like the Misfits or Guns N Roses. Some wore their hair in the bouffant 80s style teased out with a mountain of hair spray. We saw leg warmers and jean jackets. The 80s returned with not just the band and the music, but also with patrons there that night.
There was no dance floor, but many chose to get up and party anywhere they could find space. Since nearly every song was a well-known hit, much of the audience sang along. Overall, the energy was very high for the entire night. The band played a few encore songs that went a little past the time allotted. But when the crowd demands it, you must comply to leave them on a high note.
On top of this top-notch nostalgia, there is also some of the best Asian cuisine available in New England. Be aware, Kowloon serves a limited menu outdoors. However, the favorites are all there. You can get your Pu Pu platter among other great appetizers including the famous Saugus wings. Plus, they serve favorite entrees like Generals Tso’s Chicken, Chicken and Broccoli, Kung Pao Beef and many more.
One of the allures of Kowloon is that it is a giant Tikki Bar. And of course, that means Tiki drinks! They are famous for their Scorpion Bowls that typically take two people to finish. And among their most well-known is the Suffering Bastard, Navy Grog, The Mai Tai and the Pina Colada. They serve a full bar with a selection of beers as well.
Best of all, Kowloon will host 80s night once again. Back to the 80s return to Kowloons August 10th for another music concert. So don’t miss out!
For more information please visit – https://www.kowloonrestaurant.com/
Please check out our video of this event! https://youtu.be/p76OPAe7OKU