The State Theatre was filled Wednesday night with nearly 200 gray haired hippies–as well as a few intrepid students–to see the Zombies, and their opening guests, the Strawbs. These two English bands are true nostalgia from the ’60s, and proved that their music sounds just as incredible live as it does when played on vinyl.

The Strawbs, unlike the headlines, are not one of the most well-known bands of the “Flower Power” generation, but they played their songs with grace and perfection. The reaction of the crowd led many to question why the band hadn’t made waves?  The three members of the band, each strumming acoustic guitars, serenaded the crowd with their multi-rhythm instrumentals and folk rock harmonies. On songs like “Copenhagen” and “Autumn,” mesmerizing lyrics compelled many to reflect on the band’s history and even personal memories.

The Zombies are on their 50th anniversary tour with their recently released album Breathe Out, Breathe In. Colin Blunstone and Rod Argent, the only two active members from the original lineup, didn’t show their age. They were clear in their enthusiasm of the music with their soloing, and dancing. The band played old songs from their breakthrough 1968 album, Odessey and Oracle, such as “Beechwood Park,” and one of their biggest hits, “Time of the Season.” They also rocked out to their newer songs, “Moment in Time” and “Show Me the Way.” Concert goers were clapping their hands and stomping their feet to every song that was played.

Both acts bowed to their standing ovation filled with loud cheering and whistling. It was prevalent that this night at the State Theatre was a great night for reminiscing to classic rock.