Eight Rising Stars

Covering dance, club, R&B, and hip-hop favorites from the past three decades, Rising Star wowed a diverse crowd at Viejas Casino's Dreamcatcher Lounge.

The vocalists of this San Diego-based octet opened the show dressed as Prince circa 1984. This turned heads, but could they deliver? Yes!

Their set consisted of multiple costume changes, wild hijinx, impressive gear, and tight choreography. Efren Sicat had Michael Jackson duties, singing "Billie Jean" and "Thriller." However, his hilarious performance of MC Hammer's "U Can't Touch This" caused eyes to widen and jaws to drop with his clever use of the microphone. Francois Dixon as Rick James also got the crowd grooving to "Give It to Me Baby." Alisha Hennis, the band's only female member, delivered the hits of Madonna, Mary J. Blige, Fergie, and Shiela E.

The dance floor was filled with interesting characters. One guy resembling Ron Jeremy got down like '70s-era John Travolta. Another guy had over-the-top moves that crossed between Napoleon Dynamite and the Tasmanian Devil.

Simply put, Rising Star had the mojo to completely entertain their audience.

• Concert: Rising Star
• Show date: January 9, 2010
• Venue: Dreamcatcher Lounge at Viejas
• Seats: Front and center, then stage right