Bachman-Turner Overdrive

Photos and Review by Raven Divito
@rockinshots

Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) rolled into Lincoln, CA, on September 20 with their Roll On Down the Highway 2025 Tour, delivering a night packed with nostalgia, rock-solid musicianship, and timeless anthems that reminded everyone why their music has endured for more than 50 years.

The crowd may have skewed older than at some rock shows, but the energy was undeniable. From the opening notes of “Take It Like a Man,” the audience rose to their feet, singing and swaying with visible joy. No mosh pits or crowd surfers here—just a theater full of fans reliving the soundtrack of their lives. The original lineup is long gone, but Randy Bachman and his stellar band brought these classics to life with heart, authenticity, and plenty of smiles.

Though seated for the entire show, 81-year-old Randy Bachman radiated rock ’n’ roll vigor. His voice remains strong, his riffs instantly recognizable, and his playing as sharp as ever. Bassist Lance Lapointe kicked things off on vocals before Randy took the mic for “Rock Is My Life, and This Is My Song,” underscored by a moving video montage of vintage band photos. The family ties were strong on stage as Randy’s son Tal contributed on keys, guitar, and vocals, while Tal’s wife, Koko, powered the songs with precision drumming. Brent Howard filled out the lineup on guitar and backing vocals.

The setlist was a journey through Randy’s vast catalog. BTO staples like “Not Fragile,” “Let It Ride,” and “Roll On Down the Highway” mixed seamlessly with The Guess Who classics (“No Time,” “No Sugar Tonight,” “American Woman”), reminding fans of Bachman’s deep legacy. One of the night’s biggest surprises came when Tal stepped forward to perform his 1999 pop hit “She’s So High,” proving his voice and guitar tone have lost none of their shine after 26 years.

As the show built toward its climax, the band tore through “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet” and capped the night with the inevitable, crowd-shaking “Takin’ Care of Business.”

Prior to the encore, BTO delivered a raucous rock medley paying tribute to the artists who inspired them, including AC/DC, The Rolling Stones, T. Rex, the Steve Miller Band, and more. Hearing Randy Bachman’s distinct voice over those iconic riffs was unexpected but unforgettable.

Even seated, Randy showed no signs of slowing down. His guitar work and vocals carried the same fire as decades ago, highlighted by a searing solo that reminded everyone exactly why he’s considered one of the greats.

For classic rock fans, this tour is a gift. With his talented band at his side, Randy Bachman packs six decades of music history into one night: BTO anthems, Guess Who hits, and even a dose of ’90s nostalgia. It’s a celebration not just of a band, but of a legacy that continues to resonate across generations.

As the lights came up, one thing was clear: nostalgia may have been the fuel, but Randy Bachman’s enduring artistry was the engine that drove this unforgettable night of rock ’n’ roll.

For the latest tour updates and news, visit BTO’s official website at btoband.com.