Description

GUITAR MONSTERS featuring Johnny A., Jon Butcher, and special guest Dave Amato, former longtime lead guitarist for REO Speedwagon, comes to The Cut LIVE in Gloucester, MA, on Thursday, September 24, 2026, for a special benefit concert supporting The Open Door and its mission of helping advocate on behalf of those in the community facing the impact of hunger.

Presented by Rockin’ 4 Vets, Guitar Monsters brings together three acclaimed guitarists for an unforgettable evening of rock, blues, and high-energy live performance. Grammy-nominated guitarist Jon Butcher, whose career spans Johanna Wild, Jon Butcher Axis, Barefoot Servants, and Experience Hendrix tours. Known for his dynamic stage presence, Butcher has shared stages with major acts including the J. Geils Band, Rush, Def Leppard, and the Scorpions

Joining him is Johnny A. is renowned for his distinctive style, solo recordings, and work with Peter Wolf (J. Geils Band). A Boston Music Hall of Fame inductee, he remains one of New England’s most respected musicians.

Special guest “Monster” Dave Amato spent more than three decades as the lead guitarist for REO Speedwagon. Throughout his career he has performed and recorded with artists including Rick Springfield, Cher, Richie Sambora, and Michael Bolton. Following REO Speedwagon’s retirement, he continues touring and performing nationwide; this summer with former Eagle guitarist, Don Felder.

More than a concert, net proceeds from Guitar Monsters will benefit The Open Door, a nonprofit local resource center whose mission is to alleviate the impact of hunger in the community. The level of services they provide to the local community is too grand in scale to be able to describe here, learn more at FOODPANTRY.org. Produced by Rockin’ 4 Vets/Alive & Kicking Productions, the event combines world-class musicianship with a commitment to helping veterans throughout New England.