A packed audience filed into their seats at the H. Ric Luhrs Performing Arts Center on Saturday, Oct. 17, eagerly awaiting the arrival of Peter Frampton.

Frampton, the esteemed guitarist, was well known for his “talking” electric guitar. From his days in Humble Pie to his successful solo career, Frampton was an icon of the ’70s music scene.

But Saturday night, guests were in for a unique treat, for Frampton would be playing an entirely acoustic show.

Two blue spotlights highlighted Frampton walking jauntily on stage, waving wildly and beaming at the roaring crowd.

“This is the first acoustic show I’ve ever done,” he said. “I guess because I’ve been scared to do it before.”

He then introduced the opening act, which consisted of his son, Julian Frampton, and pianist Ben Sheridan.

Frampton and Sheridan were a duo to remember. Frampton has clearly inherited his father’s talent, strumming away on acoustic guitar alongside Sheridan’s keyboard.

One song stood out to the audience in particular, “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac. People could be seen gently wiping tears from their eyes as Frampton’s voice brought fond memories back to the crowd.

After finishing with their song “Ghosts,” the audience cheered a hearty goodbye to the pair, with some even giving a standing ovation.

During intermission, stage crew began setting a change of scenery. An old-fashioned radio was brought on stage, along with vintage lamps and a tall coat rack.

Lights dimmed upon the homey setup. Frampton again walked on stage, this time donning a trench coat and hat. Cheering erupted as he casually hung his coat and hat on the rack and walked over to the radio. Laughter began as Frampton humorously “tuned” the radio. After finding his song, he sat down on his stool, picked up his acoustic guitar and began playing “All I Want To Be (Is By Your Side).”

The audience applauded along as Frampton vigorously played away. He was a true master of the acoustic guitar and it was hard to believe how much sound came out of the instrument — at times, it sounded as if two people were playing at once.

His lighthearted personality helped set an intimate feel for the entire performance. With the help of living room props, it was like witnessing a private jam session with a guitar legend.

Frampton included a few covers in his set list, including the joyful Buddy Holly hit, “Peggy Sue.” He imitated Holly’s voice for the song, generating laughs and cheers from the audience.

Even when he was not imitating Buddy Holly, his voice was strong as ever. It sounded like a day had not passed since his famous album “Frampton Comes Alive!”

About halfway through the performance, Frampton brought fellow songwriter and guitarist Gordon Kennedy onto the stage, where he played alongside Frampton for the rest of the night.

“There is nothing electronic on the stage, except for the radio, which is fake anyway,” he said.

It was soon time for Frampton’s final song, which the crowd knew had to be, “Do You Feel Like We Do.” Singing and clapping echoed throughout the auditorium as Frampton jammed away on his guitar once more.

When Frampton and Kennedy walked off stage, however, a standing ovation brought them back out.

Audiences everywhere will see an intimate, comedic side of Frampton on his “Raw” tour that is truly unforgettable. It shows that even without a talk box and wires, Frampton is still a guitar legend.

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