Fresh off his high-profile return at M3 in Maryland earlier this year, David Lee Roth rolled into Atlantic City on August 8 on his “The Last Tour Unless It Isn’t” Summer tour, ready to prove that in 2025 the Van Halen catalog still hits just as hard live. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s memorabilia-packed live venue was the perfect backdrop for an evening of Van Halen classics, Roth’s legendary showmanship, and enough Jersey-flavored humor to keep the crowd grinning between every power chord. Long before the house lights dimmed, a lucky handful of fans caught a glimpse of the man himself strutting through the casino — stopping for selfies and banter before disappearing backstage to prepare for the 90-minute rock ‘n’ roll time machine ahead.
Backed by his tight four-piece band, anchored by longtime guitarist Al Estrada, Roth was joined by a crew of talented male background singers who delivered pitch-perfect harmonies worthy of a barbershop quartet on steroids. While their names may not yet be etched in rock’s Hall of Fame, their energy and musicianship made them the perfect foil for “Diamond Dave’s” playful swagger.
The camaraderie was on full display when Roth turned to his Jersey-born bassist Ryan Wheeler and drummer Francis Valentino, slipping into a mock Jersey style Italian “Godfather” alter ego to dish out fatherly advice in true wise-guy style. Between quips about Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, and a running gag about finding Snooki, Roth showed that the years may have seasoned him, but the humor and charisma remain as razor-sharp as ever.
The 17 song setlist was a lean, mean, hit-packed journey through Van Halen’s golden years, with every song delivered with maximum energy and minimal filler. “Runnin’ with the Devil” had fists pumping, “Dance the Night Away” turned the venue into a singalong, and show opener “Panama” nearly blew the roof off the place. While some fans may debate whether Roth’s vocals are up to par these days, the truth is he sounded no better or worse than he did 10, 15, or even 20 years ago — and considering he’s in his 70s now, that’s a feat worth celebrating. Physically, he’s still in incredible shape, flashing that million-dollar grin and moving with the vitality of someone half his age.
For those in the crowd, the night wasn’t about perfection — it was about nostalgia, joy, and the rare privilege of hearing these songs live from one of the men who helped write their history.
Legends like David Lee Roth won’t be around forever, and this Atlantic City show was a reminder to grab the chance while you can. After all, when the music’s this good, and the party’s led by Diamond Dave himself, “Everybody Wants Some!!”
Concert review by Metal Walt
Setlist:
1. Panama
2. Drop Dead Legs
3. I'm The One
4. I'll Wait
5. You Really Got Me
6. Runnin' With The Devil
7. Romeo Delight
8. Dance The Night Away
9. Mean Street
10. Atomic Punk
11. Jamie's Cryin'
12. Unchained
13. Oh, Pretty Woman
14. Ain’t Talkin’ Bout Love
15. Hot For Teacher
16. Everybody Wants Some!!
17. Jump
Watch exclusive video clips from the show:
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