It has been a while since I saw Uriah Heep on stage and (after seeing them recently in Dallas), I can firmly say that are still one of the most exciting live acts around.  Not only have they been performing all around the world, they have also been releasing great albums since teaming up with Bernie Shaw and Phil Lanzon.  This tour is in support of their latest disc, Living The Dream, and they are special guests on the third leg of the Judas Priest Firepower Tour.

The band started their set with new track “Grazed By Heaven,” and the Dallas crowd gave them a hero’s welcome.  Right from the start, the Heep played like they had something to prove, even though they have earned their stripes many years ago.  With a catalogue as vast as theirs, it must be hard to come up with a set list for a headlining show, let alone for a support slot.  They did their best to play some hits while still showcasing newer material.  “Take Away My Soul” was another cut from the new record, and I was happy they played that one as it is one of my new favorites by Uriah Heep.  Their 1998 record Sonic Origami is often overlooked, so it was a nice treat that they performed the opening track “Between Two Worlds." The album that really got me into their music was Abominog, and hearing any material from the Pete Goalby era is a welcome addition to their set.  They played “Too Scared To Run,” and while I was hoping for another tune from that record, they can’t be faulted for leaving room for their hits.

The show was about 50% older hits, and the other half was “newer” material.  For a band as seasoned as Uriah Heep, "newer" takes in the early 80s.  For their older hits, they performed “Sunrise," “Gypsy," “Look At Yourself," “Stealin’” and “Easy Livin”." Those were played flawlessly and with an energy most young bands don’t possess.  Bernie Shaw sounded fantastic and he made use of the large stage.  Mick Box was as animated as always, and he always seems to be smiling.  Davey Rimmer (who took over from the ailing Lee Kerslake) bashed away at his kit and even broke one of the drums after the first song.  He and bassist Russell Gilbrook have become a really solid rhythm section.  Uriah Heep performed like a well-oiled machine but not in a cold, soulless way.  They acted as one and put out a great set supporting Judas Priest.  I just hope they come back and do a headlining tour because a special guest slot is not enough Heep for me.