Duran Duran puts on a show at House of Blues

The English ’80s band Duran Duran hit the House of Blues stage in Chicago over the weekend. Nick Rhodes graced the stage first and took pictures of the crowd with his iPad throughout the evening, keeping the “Girls On Film.” Bass guitarist John Taylor then followed and amped up the screaming cougars in the front row. Some of the ladies had waited since 6 a.m. to greet their favorite pop icons.

Singer Simon Le Bon led off with the song “Planet Earth,” which set the tone of things to come. “Hungry Like the Wolf” came next and described the eager fan’s appetites for more classics. The “Notorious” boys seemed to be having a good time and worked the audience like old pros. They chose such hits and rarities as “Chauffeur” “Girl Panic” and “Ordinary World” to complete the set. “Careless Memories” from their 1983 self titled album is almost never heard live but was presented here for the lucky listeners.

” (Reach Up for the) Sunrise” had the audience members raising their arms with a spectacular light show that woke everyone up with “Rio” right after.

The encore brought “Reflex” out of the mothballs, closing with credit and solos from each member of this historic band. Even with a two hour set Duran Duran could have played double that with such an extensive catalogue.

Word on the street is that they will return in the fall, hopefully playing in a bigger venue since they sold out the House in only 10 minutes.

Pioneer Mark Ronson produced the new album All You Need Is Now, which has breathed new life into the group without abandoning its signature sound. Visit www.duranduran.com and iTunes to hear the latest collaboration with the new and old wave. Photos and text by Jerry Nunn