ORANGE PARK – With all of the fantastic performers playing the Thrasher-Horne Center it can be hard to pick which shows to attend, or favorite shows you’ve been to. Evil Woman-The American ELO checks both of those boxes.

For fans of the hit English band of the ‘70s, this show hit every expectation. Lead singer Kevin Fafard embodies Jeff Lynne to a T, and when alongside vocalist Rebecca Catalona the songs became near perfect renditions. With the incredible musical talents of their very own orchestra section led by violinist Nancy Crockford, hit songs like “Don’t Bring Me Down” and “Mr. Blue Sky” were lovingly performed for their audience of thrilled Electric Light Orchestra enthusiasts.

Musical director Nigel Holland introduced songs with fanfare, the first half featuring some of ELO’s most iconic songs. While the band shone when it played all together, the periodic spotlights on each of the elements really allowed the members to do what they did best. The piano and keyboard combined in “Living Thing” and a violin solo brought the song to life.

Though the first act focused mainly on ELO’s most popular songs, the band also threw in a few of their own favorites into the setlist. “Jungle” was a favorite among the group, and with a heavy drumline that kept the audience nodding in time, it likely became a few others new favorite as well. “Evil Woman”, the band’s namesake drew an ovation at the end and blew our expectations out of the water.

The second half began with fanfare as the group launched into “Can’t Get it Out of My Head”.

Songs like “Showdown,” “Sweet Talkin’ Woman” and “Last Train to London” only solidified the feeling that this concert was something special. For so many, this music defined their childhood, and despite the years, it defined mine as well.

“Strange Magic,” has always been one of my favorite songs. Hearing it in concert performed with the synthesizers and bass it deserved, after so long of hearing it on the radio or mixed in with other songs on my playlists was an experience I’ll hold as closely as some of my older peers in the crowd.

I have always been a fan of Electric Light Orchestra, call it good genes, but I admit some of the songs played during the second half were new to me. Because of that, however, it almost felt like attending the concert as it was meant to be heard. I found myself teleported to my mother’s childhood living room, dancing along to “A New World Record” during Sunday morning breakfast.

The final song “Roll Over Beethoven” was definitely a crowd favorite, bringing the audience to their feet as they danced and sang along. It easily drew another standing ovation for the group, and as they said goodnight more than a few members of the audience left to get to the merchandise line before the rest of the crowd.

The reaction of that evening’s crowd was a shining testament to their talent. So, don’t be in “Confusion” if you see tickets for Evil Woman-The American ELO anytime soon.