With every note they played, the Collins Quartet turned rock legends into classical masterpieces, stringing together a night to remember.

November 12th, 2024

The Candlelight 80’s concert was a stunning experience that brought fans back to the era of big hair, synths, and unforgettable hits, all delivered with a fresh, classical twist by the talented Collins Quartet. Held outdoors under a perfect evening breeze, the concert had a relaxed, almost magical ambiance, with rows of flickering candles setting the stage for an intimate musical journey.

The Collins Quartet opened with Toto’s iconic “Africa,” instantly setting a tone that felt both nostalgic and refreshing. Each song was prefaced with a bit of background, which added layers of meaning and allowed the audience to reflect on the impact of these legendary hits. The group’s classical renditions gave each song a new life, shifting the focus from the original vocal power of the tracks to the depth of their melodies.

Highlights included a breathtaking rendition of Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill,” where the violin captured the haunting, passionate essence of the original, and U2’s “With or Without You,” closing out the first set with a gentle poignancy. They didn’t just play hits; they reinvented them. Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” and Queen + David Bowie’s “Under Pressure” had the audience nodding along, transfixed by how familiar rock anthems transformed into delicate, beautiful compositions.

The second set opened with Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” the Collins Quartet expertly channeling the song’s edgy, powerful feel, even without lyrics. The evening closed with “The Final Countdown,” where the strings crescendoed to an exhilarating finish, proving that 80s rock and pop can thrive in any musical style.

The Candlelight 80’s concert was just surreal. With the perfect breeze and the soft glow of candles around, it set up a cozy night with great music. The Collins Quartet brought new life to classic 80s hits, turning songs like Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing, The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” and Bob Jovi’s “Living on a Prayer” into something you could feel in your bones, even without the usual vocals. It was the kind of night where you could just kick back, relax, and let the music drift you away. If you love good tunes and solid vibes, this was definitely one to remember.