Feeding the Fans

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By Craig S. Semon TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF

WORCESTER — Duran Duran fans were like a pack of wolves hungry for their pop idols to finally show up for intimate concert scheduled today for 100 lucky fans in the WXLO Music Loft, fifth floor, 250 Commercial St.

And, when the British popsters finally arrived, dedicated Duran Duran devotees weren't do, do, do, do, do, do, do, dodo, dododo, dodo, disappointed.

As part of the WXLO FM 104.5 Music Loft series, Duran Duran played a rousing three-song set, fielded whimsical questions, showed off their wit and posed with giddy fans.

Duran Duran has sold more than 100 million records worldwide. The WXLO radio promotion (free to lucky listeners) is part of the promotion of Duran Duran's latest album, “All You Need Is Now.”

Veterans of the English new wave/new romantic movement of the '80s, Duran Duran still has a loyal, mostly female following, as evident from the packed confines of the music loft. Some fans lined up as early as 9 a.m., even though they were guaranteed to get in by winning the free tickets.

Duran Duran diehards and friends Michelle Noon of Warwick, R.I., and Jill Murray of Providence were thrilled to see their pop idols up so close. Ms. Noon called Duran Duran's music very inspiring, while Ms. Murray said Duran Duran's songs are “timeless.” Both noted how Duran Duran has influenced a young crop of new bands, including The Killers.

An uncharacteristically scruffy Simon LeBon wore shades as he sang the first number, “Leave a Light On” (off the latest), but took them off when it was time to field questions.

Guitarist John Taylor (from the reaction of the women present, the handsomest member of Duran Duran) sang harmony, strummed his guitar and showed off his strikingly good looks.

An audience member asked if LeBon and Taylor had any recollection of their performances across the street at the Centrum (Duran Duran played there in its heyday back in 1984, 1987 and 1989). Taylor joked that he remembered the color of the backstage pass (“green”) and LeBon said, “There was this redhead.”

After playing the title track from “All You Need Is Now,” LeBon and Taylor sang the massive '80s hit “Hungry Like the Wolf.” Backing the Duran Duran duo were guitarist Dom Brown and vocalist Ana Ross.

Before the band posed for photos with fans, City Councilor-at-Large Frederick C. Rushton gave LeBon and Taylor the key to the city.

Courtesy Worcester Telegram & Gazette

http://www.telegram.com/article/20110427/NEWS/110429705/-1/NEWS05