Concert review: Styx w/ Kevin Cronin & Don Felder | 08.22.25, Hollywood Casino Amphitheater (with photo gallery)

Photo of Terry Gowan, Will Evankovich, and Chuck Panozzo of Styx by Michael O’Connor

The Hollywood Casino Amphitheater brought another outstanding performance hosting former Eagle Don Felder, longtime REO Speedwagon singer-guitarist Kevin Cronin, and Styx as part of their “Brotherhood of Rock Tour,” creating a timeless performance with a heavily stacked lineup.

Don Felder came onto the stage with a professional confidence. One thing that stood out to me was how kind he was. It seemed as if his main priority was for the audience to have a good time, using the full stage to walk towards the edge closest to fans and interacting with his other band members. He ended with the Eagles’ popular track “Hotel California,” a track that stirs up a flood of nostalgic memories.

Kevin Cronin, carrying the torch of REO Speedwagon’s golden era, proved that his talent hasn’t dimmed one bit. His guitar work was nothing less than extraordinary, with each solo a shred-fueled burst of energy that had the crowd roaring and on their feet. Cronin’s bright and magnetic presence drew in so much attention the moment he came onstage. He’s clearly a veteran of the live circuit, moving with ease and charisma that only decades of performances can hone. A high emotional peak came with the track “I Wish You Were There” a song that pulled heartstrings while bathing the crowd in warm orange and red lights. The finale, “Roll With the Changes,” sealed his set—Cronin came to the front of the stage, unleashing a final guitar and drum solo that felt like a firework display in sound.

Then came Styx, and with them, a wave of nostalgia that swept through the venue. As their most popular track “Come Sail Away” began, the audience joined in so quick, with voices rising in unison for the chorus like a ritual they’d rehearsed for years. You could tell the band’s connection with each other is extremely high, their vocals build off each other and really showcase how well they work as a team. Guitar solos sliced through a purple haze of the stage lights, adding texture and grit to the set. “Miss America” stood out as a thunderous highlight, its heavy riffs and unapologetic rock feel reminded everyone why Styx remains a staple of the genre. It was a performance that revisited the past, and truly ignited it.

The “Brotherhood of Rock Tour” was a living archive of rock history, brought to life by artists who still carry that fire. The Amphitheater became a space where memories were rekindled and forged in the glow of beautiful stage lights and roaring applause. For longtime fans and first-timers alike, the show was obvious depiction that classic rock is thriving, and still capable of stirring the soul. | Michael O’Connor