Now that's ironic.

A bright spot is that without Bun E. the band is playing longer sets, with more set-list changes that usually include a couple of songs that they hadn't played in years.

Though even that, like every CT album, had at least one or two decent songs. Like "Walk Away" with Chrissie Hynde and "Had to Make You Mine." Perhaps "I Can't Understand It" if you're into a fun simple rave-up.

No Bun E.? Last three, four years have seen the most energetic, longest shows they've done in decades, along with the most amazing and deepest set lists.

That's the thing with Cheap Trick: Those who know, KNOW their greatness. Dimebag, Dave Grohl, a slew of hair metal guys, Joan Jett, Jeff Ament. Mike McCready, the folks who worship Rockford Illinois' finest go on and on. SO many bands LOVE Cheap Trick.

Here's to being here next season, Alasdair. Wednesdays won't be the same if you're not!