Joey Guerra ✔@joeyguerra
Tricks, treats, high notes at Adam Lambert's Halloween-themed show - my @HoustonChron review
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6:37 AM - 29 Oct 2015
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There were treats, and a few tricks, during Adam Lambert's Halloween-themed Houston show.
The "American Idol" finalist was in town Wednesday as part of Mix 96.5 FM's Ghost Town, which included an opening set by DJ Athenz (spinning "Vogue" and "Thriller") and a costume contest.
"This is like gay Christmas, you guys," Lambert quipped.
The turnout was modest, and the crowd became audibly frustrated at the late start time. Some sat on the floor. Others walked out. They booed when DJs sauntered onstage after 10 p.m. without Lambert.
He appeared, finally, a few minutes later in a studded leather jacket, sporting white contacts and a pompadour. He looked like a zombie James Dean. ("That smoky eye is playing no games," said a nearby fan.)
Lambert stuck mostly to tunes from "The Original High," released earlier this year. He kicked off, fittingly, with "Evil in the Night" and "Ghost Town." It's a strong collection of dance-pop-funk anthems that should have engaged a much bigger audience.
Album standout "There I Said It" was equally affecting live, a beautifully built ballad that showcases the best of his voice. Lambert is a terrific singer and was strong throughout the hourlong set.
He rallied through Janet Jackson's "Black Cat" and weaved Queen's "Another One Bites the Dust" into his own "Trespassing." It was a nod to Lambert's extensive touring as Queen's lead singer, which included a 2014 date at Toyota Center.
"Whataya Want From Me" and "If I Had You," Lambert's biggest hits to date, sounded almost quaint compared with his newer material. But they're still fun to sing along to. Now if we can just get him onstage earlier next time.
good view of the ..... 
