THOMAS S. ORWAT, JR.
Rock Veterans Enuff Z’Nuff Returns to Buffalo for an Intimate Night of Rock at The Caz
Buffalo, NY – Power pop kings Enuff Z’Nuff returned to Buffalo with a bill that paired them alongside Band Inc. and Permacrush at The Caz, a former bank, now transformed into one of the city’s sharpest new music venues. It marked their first local appearance since a rare off-date drop-in back in February 2024, when they squeezed in a show at Rock N Roll Heaven during a tour alongside ex–Deep Purple bassist and vocalist Glenn Hughes. While the turnout was undeniably light, the fans who showed up got the kind of experience that felt tailor-made, intimate, comfortable, and loud enough to rattle the vaults still buried in the basement. It was the kind of night that could’ve been phoned in, but instead, each band played with the same passion and intensity as if they were facing a packed house, a true reflection of their commitment to the craft, and a show of respect for the fans who paid to be there.
Hailing from Blue Island, Illinois, Enuff Z’Nuff has been delivering their signature blend of power pop and glam rock since forming in 1984. Still anchored by original bassist and bandleader Chip Z’Nuff, who took over lead vocals after the final departure of founding member Donnie Vie in 2013, the current lineup features Jason K. Herman on guitar, Chris Densky on drums, and 24-year-old guitar wiz Luis Kalil adding firepower on lead. The band shows no signs of slowing down, with their upcoming studio album ‘XTRA CHERRIES’ dropping July 25, 2025, led by the infectiously melodic new single “Heavy Metal.” The new material holds its own next to their classics, further proof that despite their deep catalog and consistency, Enuff Z’Nuff remains one of the most underrated bands in rock ’n’ roll. But the fans know the truth, and nights like this only reinforce it.
Enuff Z’Nuff’s 12-song set echoed the structure of last year’s Buffalo-area stop, blending fan favorites, deep cuts, and Beatles/McCartney covers. Even though he said he wasn’t feeling 100%, Chip Z’Nuff was locked in from the start. He told stories, joked around with the crowd, and repeatedly thanked everyone for showing up. You could tell he genuinely appreciated the fans who came out, it felt more like a laid-back hang with old friends than just another show.
There were plenty of standout moments throughout the night. Before launching into “In The Groove,” Chip told the crowd it was a great song to, in his words, “fuck to”—delivered with a smirk that got a big laugh. He later introduced “Little Indian Angel” from their 1989 debut, explaining it hadn’t been performed live in decades, a deep-cut treat for longtime fans. That was followed by “Metal Heart” from their upcoming album ‘XTRA CHERRIES’, which held its own alongside the older material. Chip also dedicated their cover of Paul McCartney & Wings’ “Live and Let Die” to McCartney, who had just turned 83. Before the night’s final stretch, he introduced each band member and gave them a moment to shine, highlighted by Luis Kalil’s jaw-dropping shred solo, followed by a slick bass solo from Chip. In a surprising move, Chip then reached around Luis’s guitar to play a solo himself, leaving both the crowd and Luis stunned. The band closed the set with the fan-favorite “New Thing” and ended the night with a rousing version of “With a Little Help from My Friends.” It was a fitting finish for a lineup that feels as close to the classic era, Chip, Donnie Vie, Derik Frigo, and Vikki Foxx, as fans could hope for.
Band Inc. took the stage before Enuff Z’Nuff and delivered a tight, engaging set that left a strong impression. The Boston-based hard rock group, fronted by bassist Giuliana Lucia Amaral, tore through “Midnight Rider,” “Better Off Dead,” and “Ruined Myself,” showcasing their solid musicianship and confident stage presence. Giuliana stood out as a great front person—passionate, focused, and clearly dedicated to her craft. She’s a talented bass player and vocalist, and her energy and presence elevated the performance. Entertaining and well-rehearsed, the band helped carry the night’s momentum and set the table perfectly for the headliner.
Opening the show was Hollywood rock outfit Permacrush, led by longtime frontman Chris Crush. With over two decades in the game, Chris brought seasoned presence and charisma to a unique acoustic set, performed alongside guitarist Brett Baugh. The band’s drummer had stepped away due to a prior commitment, which gave fans a rare opportunity to hear stripped-down versions of “Major Dis,” “Bottlerocket,” “Only Friend,” and “Break U Down.” Hopefully, they’ll return to Buffalo soon with the full lineup, and the volume cranked.
In summary, this was a great and entertaining night filled with strong performances and genuine moments of connection, proof that even with a small crowd, the passion behind the music is still alive. Enuff Z’Nuff delivered a spirited, intimate set that blended deep cuts, Beatles nods, and fresh material, all anchored by Chip Z’Nuff’s charm and undeniable musicianship. Band Inc. impressed with tight performances and a standout showing from Giuliana Lucia Amaral, while Permacrush opened the night with a rare acoustic set that gave fans a stripped-down look at their catalog. If this tour rolls through your town, do yourself a favor and show up—because if you miss it, you’ll be missing one of the most authentic, entertaining rock shows out there right now.
Enuff Z’Nuff – setlist 06-26-2025
The World Is a Gutter
Baby Loves You
The Love Train
Kiss the Clown
In the Groove
Jet (Wings cover)
Heavy Metal
Little Indian Angel
Fly High Michelle
Live and Let Die (Wings cover)
New Thing
With a Little Help From My Friends
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Thomas S. Orwat Jr.
RockMusicStar.com 
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