Honkin' on Bobo Era

Lore & Background

The atmosphere during this time was one of celebration and camaraderie. Backstage interactions were marked by a focus on musical integrity rather than spectacle, with the band members sharing stories about the artists they covered. The production team worked to capture a rawer sound that mirrored the vintage recordings being honored. This approach resonated deeply with long-time supporters who appreciated the authenticity of the performances.

In Their Own Story

The stage lights dimmed as the opening chords rang out, heavy and distorted like old vinyl crackling through a tube amp. Steven stood center stage, leaning into the microphone with that familiar swagger, while Joe unleashed a riff that echoed decades of history. The crowd roared, not for a new hit, but for the memory of where it all began. Smoke machines filled the air, creating ghosts of past tours in the haze.

Reader's Guide

The promotional cycle began in late 2012 following the album launch across major markets. Shows featured a dynamic mix of original hits and newly arranged covers from the record to engage diverse audiences. The setlist evolved throughout the run to prioritize high-energy blues interpretations alongside established fan favorites. Brad Whitford returned fully to touring duties during this stretch, solidifying the classic five-piece lineup on stage for fans. Joey Kramer remained active throughout most of the initial run before health concerns later impacted his availability in subsequent years. Venues ranged from intimate theaters to massive arenas across North America and Europe during the leg. A highlight included special guest appearances by artists whose songs were covered on the record itself. The tour served as a celebration of rock history rather than just new material promotion for the group. Production values emphasized vintage aesthetics with neon signage and classic stage setups reminiscent of earlier decades. This period marked a mature phase for the group, focusing on endurance and legacy above all else. Merchandise featured retro graphics aligning with the album's theme of paying homage to roots music. Sound engineers worked closely to balance the heavy blues tone with modern amplification systems for clarity. The band interacted more casually with audiences during this era, sharing stories behind each cover song selection. Critics noted a renewed vigor in the rhythm section compared to previous touring cycles. By the tour's conclusion, the group had cemented their status as enduring legends of hard rock history.

Did You Know?

• The album consists primarily of covers with only one original track included on the final tracklist.
• The title references a nickname for the band's long-time touring bus used across decades.
• This was the first studio release to feature all five classic members since the late nineties.
• The project charted highly upon release, proving continued fan demand for their brand of rock.