The Eyes have it, in Newport
Those peaceful, easy harmonies that helped make the Eagles one of rock’s most enduring bands will fill the Newport Performing Arts Center when tribute band Eagle Eyes takes the stage this Friday, Oct. 23.
The concert will include songs from throughout the Eagles’ catalog, including “Take It Easy,” “Witchy Woman,” “Lyin’ Eyes,” “New Kid in Town,” “Life in the Fast Lane” and, naturally, “Hotel California.”
Based in British Columbia, Eagle Eyes has built its reputation around one of the most challenging aspects of reproducing the Eagles’ sound: the band’s intricate vocal harmonies.
Every vocal during an Eagle Eyes performance is sung live, without backing tracks or Auto-Tune. The group has taken its tribute throughout Canada and the western United States, earning standing ovations along the way.
The four musicians divide up the roles of the Eagles’ best-known members while also tackling the instrumental arrangements that made the original recordings distinctive.
Bassist and vocalist Jack Gunderson handles parts originally sung by Glenn Frey and Timothy B. Schmit. A veteran of more than 30 years on the rock circuit, Gunderson studied music in college before becoming a full-time touring and recording musician.
Guitarist and vocalist Jason Dunajski covers vocals associated with Don Henley and Randy Meisner while taking on much of Don Felder’s guitar work. A graduate of the Musicians Institute, Dunajski has toured with Soundawg and also performs with The Joint Chiefs.
Lead guitarist Ray Harvey steps into the Joe Walsh role, including some selections from Walsh’s solo career. Harvey was a longtime member of Canadian rock band Kick Axe and has also worked with Rock and Hyde.
Drummer Kenneth Ermter rounds out the group, bringing more than 35 years of performing experience along with another voice for the band’s multipart harmonies.
Together, the four aim to offer more than a collection of familiar songs, recreating the vocal interplay and musicianship that helped give the Eagles their unmistakable sound.
Friday’s concert begins at 7:30 pm at the Newport Performing Arts Center, located at 777 W Olive Street. Tickets, $35 to $50, are available at coastarts.org or call 541-265-2787.