Lights Out performed one of the best shows I’ve seen in the past few years!
A National Tribute Phenomenon
Known as the nation’s #1 tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, the quintet singing sensation Lights Out entertained a sold-out crowd at St. Pius Church auditorium in Montville, New Jersey last Saturday.
The Performers
The group’s four members are Chris James, Danny Goscicki, Rob Matthews, and Ron Ceglia. They met at the University of Delaware, where they majored in music. Their journey has spanned the last two decades, from starving college kids to nationwide stars.
Successful musician and singer Joe Grisanzio accompanied the group for the evening. The multi-talented Grisanzio is involved with Shakespeare NJ at Drew University and also leads a band.
Here’s a quick sample:
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Show-Stopping Setlist
Opening with the Classics
The group opened with the 1967 hit “Sherry,” with lead singer Matthews emulating the soaring falsetto vocals of Frankie Valli from the start. This was followed by another chart-topper, “Big Girls Don’t Cry” from 1964. The 700+ crowd was in a frenzy by the end of the second song, and deafening applause rang through the auditorium.
Soulful and Smooth
The song “Stay,” written by Maurice Williams in 1955, became The Four Seasons’ #16 hit in 1966. The tune held itself together for listening pleasure, with Matthews’s fabulous voice hitting all the right notes and the other members providing visual enjoyment with their dance moves.
A Tour Through Rock and Roll
Lights Out then turned the music repertoire into a 1957 to 1970s rock and roll musical tour. They started with “Rock Around the Clock,” the sensational hit by Bill Haley and His Comets, followed by an electrifying rendition of Elvis’ “Jailhouse Rock.” The stage was rockin’ as the five singers displayed their smooth choreography.
Harmonies and Crowd Favorites
The original four group members started singing a capella when they began their careers together, and in perfect, perfect, incredible harmony, they sang “One Fine Day.” Written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, the song became popular in the summer of 1963 when performed by The Chiffons and reached the top five on the Billboard Hot 100.
Neal Diamond’s everlasting “Sweet Caroline,” with audience participation egged on by the entire group on stage, is and always will be a major hit. We experienced an over-the-top rendition of “Y.M.C.A.,” much to everyone’s delight.
Back to the Valli Era
Circling back to the Valli 70s, Lights Out performed “My Eyes Adored You,” “Grease,” and “Maryanne,” all sing-along show stoppers.
Timeless Influence and a Must-See Show
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons have influenced generations of music lovers since they first hit the music scene. Lights Out amazed all in attendance and let the audience rediscover their musical gifts. They masterly performed some of the most iconic music of the past few decades.
Go see Lights Out Tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons as they tour the country in 2025. Don’t miss it.
Credits
Knights of Columbus presents the Lights Out Tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, featuring Chris James, Danny Goscicki, Rob Matthews, Ron Ceglia, and Joe Grisanzio.
Sound Engineering by Paul Janocha
Special thanks to Promoter Gregory M. Marocco and the tireless volunteers who made the evening a success.
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