Faces (JULY 15 1972) "FACES IN PHILLY" – Concert Review - Sounds Music Paper

SOURCE DETAILS  

Publication: Sounds Music Paper Date: July 15 1972

Country: UK Section / Pages: Page 8 – Feature

Title: Faces in Philly

Writer: Peter Burton

This exclusive Sounds report covers The Faces live at the Spectrum Auditorium, Philadelphia. The article opens with scenes from the Marriott Motor Inn, where fans gathered hoping to spot Rod Stewart and the band before the show. The tone is lively and descriptive, capturing the excitement surrounding the group’s American tour.

The concert itself drew around fourteen thousand fans, filling the Spectrum with energy.

The review praises the band’s performance for its power and spontaneity, noting that The Faces maintained their trademark mix of rock swagger and blues grit even in such a large venue.

Highlighted in the piece is Rod Stewart’s commanding stage presence — described as “at his brandy and blues best.” The setlist included “It’s All Over Now,” “Stay With Me,” “Had Me A Real Good Time,” “Losing You,” “Maggie May,” “Gasoline Alley,” and “Maybe I’m Amazed.”

The writer remarks on the band’s ability to keep their magic intact despite the scale of the show.

The article also mentions the upcoming Rod Stewart album “Never A Dull Moment,” tying the concert’s energy to his solo success. The closing paragraphs describe the audience’s enthusiasm and the Faces’ ability to turn a massive arena into a party atmosphere.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS  

Event: Faces concert at Spectrum Auditorium, Philadelphia Era: 1972 – Early 1970s rock scene

Tone: Energetic and celebratory Photography: Live stage shots of Rod Stewart and band members Audience: American rock fans and Sounds readers

CONTEXT AND NOTES  

This review captures The Faces at their peak touring strength, balancing Rod Stewart’s solo fame with the band’s collective chemistry. The writing style reflects Sounds’ journalistic flair — vivid, informal, and full of movement. The photographs reinforce the sense of spectacle, showing Stewart mid‑performance and the band locked into their groove.

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