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CONCERT REVIEW - TOTO WITH CHRISTOPHER CROSS AND MEN AT WORK @ TOYOTA PAVILLION, CONCORD, CA (08.25.25)

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Smooth sailing and rocking nostalgia took center stage tonight as TotoChristopher Cross, and Men at Work shared the stage for a spectacular evening of new wave humor, progressive pop brilliance, and yacht rock greatness. This lineup felt like a time machine, transporting fans to an era when FM radio was king, yacht rock ruled the airwaves, and arena rock anthems reigned supreme. Fans packed the Toyota Amphitheatre for a night of sing-alongs, soaring musicianship, and a celebration of why these artists are the undisputed kings of smooth rock from the '70s and '80s.

Men at Work kicked off the evening with Colin Hay leading the charge. The band brought a storm of familiar songs from the past, with Hay guiding his group through an upbeat set featuring hits like “Overkill,” the super hit “Who Can It Be Now?,” and the universally beloved “Down Under.” These classics reminded fans just how deep the Men at Work catalog runs.

Hay shared the stage with a group of spectacular musicians, and their camaraderie and sheer talent were palpable. The crowd joined in with enthusiastic sing-alongs, setting the tone for an evening of nostalgia. Though Hay is the only original member of the band, it didn’t matter—his timeless vocals and dynamic stage presence captivated the audience. His wife, Cecilia Noël, added an extra layer of energy with her impressive dance moves, infectious enthusiasm, and playful use of maracas and a cowbell. Men at Work delivered a performance that was both nostalgic and electrifying, proving why they remain a standout band and a cherished part of the '80s soundtrack.

Christopher Cross took the middle spot, seamlessly delivering the calm seas of yacht rock. Backed by a full band and backup singers, Cross transported fans into a sweet sailing experience through soft rock classics. Opening with timeless hits like “Sailing” and “Arthur’s Theme (The Best That You Can Do),” Cross impressed the crowd with his understated yet masterful musical craftsmanship.

The setlist continued with fan favorites, as Cross’s velvety vocals and smooth melodies created a dreamlike trance. The energy turned up a notch when he performed “Ride Like the Wind,” a track that had the crowd swaying and singing along. With no need for flashy production, Cross and his band delivered a seamless performance that celebrated the timelessness of his music. The audience was left in awe of his ability to evoke nostalgia while showcasing his enduring talent.

The night reached its peak with powerhouse headliners Toto, led by the legendary Steve Lukather. From the moment they took the stage, the band delivered a masterclass in musicianship and technical brilliance. Joseph Williams, one of the best vocalists in rock and roll, flanked Lukather for an unforgettable performance.

The setlist was perfectly curated, featuring extended versions of hits like “Rosanna,” which included a jaw-dropping guitar solo from Lukather. Other highlights included “Pamela,” “99,” and the emotional “I Won’t Hold You Back.” The band got funky with “Georgy Porgy” and impressed with the deep cut “White Sister,” showcasing their dynamic range and ability to captivate the audience.

The night ended with a triumphant performance of “Africa,” where members of Men at Work and Christopher Cross joined Toto on stage. The arena buzzed with nostalgia as fans sang along to the iconic anthem, celebrating the hits that defined a generation.

This show was more than a concert—it was a celebration of an era and a reminder of why these bands remain legends. The charisma, musicianship, and timeless hits brought the '80s back to life, leaving fans both old and new in awe. If you have the chance to catch this lineup, don’t miss it. This is a must-see show that will leave you reminiscing about the golden age of smooth rock and arena a

Lisa Holt

Photojournalist - Reno / Lake Tahoe

Website: www.instagram.com/lisaholtphotography777 Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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