Completely Unchained Brings the Roth-Era Thunder to Dania Beach

By Genevieve Penta

Photo by Larry Marano

Who needed a fireworks display on the 4th of July when we had Completely Unchained to “Light Up the Sky” at the Dania Beach Casino. Gene Hendrikson, Jake Miller, Clint Ettore and Tim DiDuro played tribute and nailed the sound, look and performance of the early era Van Halen: David Lee Roth, Eddie Van Halen, Michael Anthony, and Alex Van Halen respectively.

Before the festivities began, an unassuming Gene sat unrecognizable at the merch table (with concert t-shirts that mimic the classic logo graphic). I write this because shortly thereafter, Gene would transform into the earlier manifestation of Diamond David Lee Roth. Donning tight shimmering spandex, a single white glove tousling a platinum blonde mane of hair, Gene strutted on stage with the same gait, dance moves, energy, kicks, and quips as Diamond Dave.

This ensemble will make you do a double take between the big hair, replicated outfits and solid performances. In fact, the man seated in front of me pulled up a photo of Eddie Van Halen on his phone and exclaimed to his girl, "that guy looks exactly like him!" Give Jake Miller his props! Wearing my favorite Eddie VH outfit, red and white stripes to coincide with the Frankenstein guitar, he played notes and produced the sounds listeners crave in a guitarist. Of course there was an impressive guitar solo, but we were also struck when Gene did double duty and joined Tim DiDuro for a banging set on the drums.

The set list consisted entirely of songs from the first five albums, my favorite era of the band. "Pictures on the Silver Screen" in the background were the actual MTV video footage from Van Halen and Dave's solo videos, adding an additional emotional element to the show.

Completely Unchained are a group of talented musicians who, by all appearances, seem to enjoy what they do. Wait! I almost forgot the strong backing vocals and bass playing of Clint Ettore. Like Michael Anthony, his contribution was almost overshadowed by the rest of the guys...That is how totally unabashed and awesome Completely Unchained is in their tribute to the Mighty Van Halen! Sent from my iPhone