Not many bands land their biggest hit on their ninth album, but REO Speedwagon proved the rare exception with 1980’s Hi Infidelity. Released at the tail end of the year, it became the biggest selling rock record of 1981, landing the band a #1 hit in the arena-sized power ballad “Keep On Loving You.” This sound would come to define the band, equally noticeable in their second #1 hit, the very, very ‘80s sounding “Can’t Fight This Feeling.” Tender piano intro? Check. Big, wet drums? Check and check. Soaring guitar solo? Buddy, don’t get me started.
REO Speedwagon
Sat, 8pm, $49+
San Jose Civic, San Jose