11/09/2019
Atreyu @ Apollo Theatre
Belvidere, IL

When this show popped up I geeked out so hard. Atreyu are one of those bands that I have listened to weekly for years. I enjoy this band so much that I would drag my friends who don’t enjoy this type of music along to their shows. This being the 20 year anniversary tour you knew they were going to pull out all of the stops. They did just that starting with a poll about which songs should they play. Allowing fans to pick their favorites on their website. It is always appreciated when artists are so open to sharing the shows entire experience with those simply clicking a button on a web page. 

The show itself was fantastic. Atreyu was filled up with so much energy. They let loose in ways I haven’t seen out of them in a long time.  Several antics included jumping off of elevated drum risers, crowd surfing from the back of the room, sitting up in the balcony and playing next to fans in the seats and leaning into the photo pit and playing. There was so much going on it was almost hard to keep up. The stage lighting was intense. There were sizable panels on each side of the drum riser. The drum riser was center stage with two sets of stairs on each side. Both sets of stairs had a small platform in the middle separating them. 

The evening was a grand spectacle of headbanging and metal riffs. There were 3 songs that stood out above the rest. 
1.) Right Side of The Bed - The explosion of screams and the shaking of the floor made this song the undisputed number one pick on the night. Vocalist, Alex, was out front on top of a metal stand. He was letting everyone feel his presence by screaming at every into the microphone fiercely at every turn. Drummer Brandon Saller sang at the top of his lungs while pounding his kit high up on the riser. I caught myself head bobbing while moving side to side in the photo pit. The song really had me jacked up.

2.) Five Vicodin With a Chase of Clarity - Personally, anything off of the “Suicide Notes” album would be sweet perfection. This song always bring the room to a full on mosh. That is exactly what happened. A giant circle pit opened up in the middle of the room. I watched from the balcony. Musically, it was done to perfection. It seemed to be even heavier and a step faster than the previous times I have seen them play it.

3.) The Crimson - I could probably make a very good case for this song being an all-time goth anthem. Every single time I have seen this played it has turned into the biggest sing-a-long ever. Atreyu clearly know this. Dan Jacobs, Marc McKnight and Alex Varkatzas literally stand with their toes gripping the edge of the stage and engage with the crowd. They allow the crowd to sing for them. One reason this will always be amongst the greatest Atreyu tunes.

It is easy to say Atreyu give performances that are always for the masses. They truly are a band that cannot be missed. They have perfected their craft over the last 20 years. I know I will keep attending when they come around.

Set List:
The Time is Now
Right Side of The Bed
Ain’t Love Grand
Doomsday
My Fork in The Road
Ex’s and Oh’s
Our Sick Story 
The Theft
Blood Children
Bleeding Mascara
Demonology and Heartache
The Crimson
Her Portrait
Bleeding is a Luxury
House of Gold
Becoming The Bull
Falling Down
Blow
Five Vicodin Chase with a Shot of Clarity
Untitled Finale
Lip Gloss and Black

11/04/2019

Theory @ The Apollo Theatre

Belvidere, IL

On a warm up tour for their forth coming album “Say Nothing”, Theory, come storming into The Apollo Theatre. That album will be released in late January of 2020. One thing was absolutely clear heading into the sold out show, Theory fans were ready for it. I heard many people while waiting in line talking about how great the newly released single, “History of Violence” is. Personally, I have to agree. It really gives us all something to look forward to besides their past hits.

Their stage set up has 8 pillars of lights that each have a foot wide strobe in the middle. On the floor directly in front of them are large spinning spot lights. These pillars line the entire back of the stage. Behind those pillars are 5 drapes hanging from the ceiling that look like one of those mountain walls you climb on. In front of those are lights that flash straight up.  Theory’s drummer, Joey Dandaneau’s kit sits dead center of the stage on top of a foot tall riser. Past that the stage upfront is fairly bare. Well, bare besides throw rugs that are underneath the three microphone stands that are right up front and spread across the stage. Those mic stands each have huge spotlights illuminating them from overhead. The set up really seemed to allow for maximum light to cover all areas and allow movement by the band. 

Having seen Theory 3 times previously, I knew I was in for a great show before I was even at the venue. Theory are that unique rock band that consistently delivers great albums while backing it up with a tremendous performance on tour. This was a Monday night in virtually nowhere Illinois and they sold the place out. I was told it was over a thousand tickets sold in just pre-sale. That is mighty impressive. I had a feeling these facts clearly did not phase them in the least. I know I walked away feeling fantastic having witnessed them played virtually all of their radio singles. Hearing “RX”, “Santa Monica”, “Hate My Life” and “Bad Girlfriend” especially.

The Canadian rockers being towards the end of tour wasn’t noticeable. There were no visible wear, tear or slowing down issues. They had their own style and vitality. Bassist Dean Back and guitarist Dave Brenner were all over the spacious stage. Both were a joy to watch perform. Back, moves back and forth all while swaying and landing some foot stomps. On occasion he joined Brenner for some joint mic shares on stage right. Brenner in his own right commanded a lot of attention away from everyone else. His performance was physical, yet fun. He used every square inch given to him to roam and sling his guitar around. Tyler Connolly, was quite the showman. His vocal fire is only matched by his guitar finesse. Belting out every popular lyric with a smirk and snarl. Ever so briefly he would grab the mic off of the stand and stand on the edge of the stage to engage with the crowd. The reception to it was certainly met with female screams and banter. Between delivering heat or somber moments he produced at a high level. Essentially meeting true rock star status in the process. Finally, the drumming of Joey Dandaneau. This guy slayed on this skins. He delivered such emotion and enthusiasm with each moment. He felt like the heart of the show perched higher up and center. 

Overall, I loved everything about this performance. It literally had it all. The manliness, heart break, love and fun that every show should deliver. This was a clinic. On my drive home I did something I never do. I made a playlist of the set list and cranked it all the way into my garage. Safe to say they are on my do not miss list.  

3 Best Songs:
History of Violence - The brand new single that is openly about domestic violence. For a band that has a long history of writing break up songs mixed with a few about social issues it was a somber reminder that there are other things in life outside of personal problems. Judging by the reaction through the room that point wasn’t missed either. That reaction was overly positive. So many people singing the lyrics. Pretty amazing considering the album hasn’t even been publicly released yet. 

Lowlife - For me there was no other song to kick of the performance with. This gem from “The Truth Is….” It punches you in the mouth with pure energy. From behind the barricade the ladies lining the front entire row seemingly agreed by singing at the top of their lungs. Brenner hits the stage and goes absolutely wild standing literally on the edge of the stage. No joke. His feet were literally just over the edge while engaging enthusiastically with the audience. Dandaneau absolutely loses it on his kit. Slamming the sticks across his snare and floor tom with overwhelming force all while looking out across the packed room. The true spirit of Rock n’ Roll was on display from the start.

Wicked Game - This Chris Issak cover set the mood for the second half of the night. Then entire stage was decked out in a cold blue lighting with frontman Connelly, sitting every so solomnly behind a keyboard. This set up was just off to the right of center leaving in full view Mr. Dandaneau’s kit. The words hauntingly echoed across the theatre as a few lighters in the sold out crowd swayed back and forth. It was eerily calm and extremely mesmerizing. Absolutely spectacular to have witnessed.  

Set List:
Lowlife
Blow
Bitch Came Back
Not Meant To Be
Santa Monica
So Happy
History of Violence
Wicked Game
All or Nothing
Straight Jacket
Drown
Angel
Hate My Life
RX
Paradise City (GnR Medley)
Bad Girlfriend

10/24/2019
BurgerKill @ The Back Bar
Janesville, WI

The veteran Indonesian thrash hardcore kings came to the US to “kick ass and pick up fans where ever they can” atleast that is what they told me. Despite the sparse crowd they absolutely made fans out of those that were in attendance. When I arrived I had many different conversations with those involved in the show. The individual members each expressed their own love of playing across America. General consensus though was that every show so far was fun and they were just doing what they knew how to do. Which is playing fast and hard. I can easily say that wasn’t out of context at all. Collectively, BurgerKill do just that with such professionalism. 

As they come on to the extremely wide stage they waste no time starting up their short programmed intro. Instantly their faces went from smiling and happy to stone faced and ready for business. With an absolutely killer and action packed set list the attitudes matched it track for track. BurgerKill’s vocalist Vicky, is jumping and bouncing around the entire stage. Unleashing ferocious screams while grasping the mic with two hands nearly all evening. He was on a whole other level. Vocally, he was on point. He literally sounds like he does in their Youtube videos. Also sharing the middle of the stage is bassist, Ramdan. His picks were hard, clean and his stage antics were stoic at times. After the show he said how much he enjoyed the stage. It showed in his casual smile. On the first extremely cold day of the Fall they warmed up the room in no time.

My Overall impression of BurgerKill is extremely positive. I was almost too excited to see these guys and it was worth every penny spent. The band themselves are well conditioned for continued success. Watching theme perform even had me moving my body a bit. It is impressive because I am a watcher and don’t get into it too often. Their most recent release “Adamantine” is a must buy. I picked up their only copy on the table and haven’t taken it out of my CD player yet. It is so damn good. If anything this show further proved to me that music is a Universal language with no boundaries. 

3 Best Songs:
Only The Strong - A straight punch you in the mouth anthem off of “Venomous” had the attendees moshing around in the open floor area. Starting off fast with a nice little lead turns into a hardcore gem. Both guitarist(Ebenz and Agung) shred with legs up on the monitors while throwing their hair everywhere. They are obviously extremely skilled and very in tune with each other.
Beyond Coma - Starting your set off after the intro with an instrumental is almost unheard of. Nonetheless, it felt amazingly ballsy all the same. Just shredding and head banging for 4 minutes to warm up the audience.
Superficial - Simply, heavy as can be with unique time signature changes laced with slick guitar riffs and solos. Truly a song for the metal head in all of us. It is so creative that it sounds like two completely different songs that mesh together perfectly. 

Set list:
Intro
Beyond Coma
Darah Hitman Kebencian
Under The Scars
Integral
Shadow of Sorrow
Superficial
Only The Strong
Aturaku

10/23/2019
Jinjer @ Apollo Theatre
Belvidere, IL

This Ukrainian foursome came into the Apollo Theatre just days before their highly anticipated album, “Macro” is to be released. The line to enter the venue was all the way down the street and it buzzed with excitement. As soon as I got through the security I turned to the right to buy a tour shirt and there was already a sizable line. Safe to say the excitement this unique metal band has developed has blown up over the last year. I was at their Route 20 show just a year earlier and they were direct support to Devildriver. Regionally, a lot of people discovered who they were that day. Without a doubt that tour lead to a good chunk of the ticket sales for this gig.

The line to enter the venue started around noon. Once doors were about to open it led down the street. A clear sign of the anticipation. Another telling sign of the bands recent success was the never ending merchandise line. I managed to snag myself 2 more shirts. Pretty darn reasonably priced in the World of band merch too. 

The photography pit was over packed with photographers. Many whom had no clue who they were until the tour was announced. Seeing as this is one of my favorite bands out there I already knew where I needed to claim my spot at. After my first time snapping them at Route 20 a year previously, I had a few types of images I wanted to get that I missed last time through. Needless to say I landed everything I wanted and more. I was more excited to hear the new tunes. “Judgement” and “On The Top” had just been released, but “Retrospection” was also in the play list and I was savoring the chance to hear them all played live. The other cool thing was they also released “Micro” right after their previous US tour. Having performed “Ape” already I wanted to more. Which they basically play the entire EP just not “Micro”. Every album but their very first full length “Inhale, Don’t Breathe” had something off of it. They couldn’t have picked a more perfect set list. 

The band themselves are the total definition of a well oiled machine. Very few performers are as precise and fluid as musicians as this quartet. Eugene on bass is like watching art in motion. His emotion is written all over his face as he plays. His riffs are heavy, fast and accurate. He spends most of the show in roughly an area of five feet. From there he sways and stomps through sets giving the occasional fist in the air at the end of songs. Vlad, back on drums absolutely slays. His slaps are loud and well timed. He very rarely strays from looking either looking down on his kit or face forward. Often though, you catch him smiling and enjoying the moment.  Their guitarist, Roman, plays fast. He spent a lot of the time upfront and standing over the monitor head banging. Vocalist Tatiana, is arguably the best new voice in all of metal. Her vocal range is rather dynamic. Several people I know have asked, “Are her growls and screams as strong as the albums?” The answer is a resounding, “Yes!” She is a force to be recognized by her piers. All evening, Tatiana, blasted out crisp and strong screams while stomping her feet, head banging, flipping hair and flying high off of metal stands up front. Safe to say she embodies everything you want in front person.

This was probably the best concert I went to all year. This band is about as perfect as it get in my book. Their live show leaves you wanting more. Their catalog of albums are masterpieces. I highly suggest if anyone gets the chance to see them to purchase a ticket immediately. They will be back stateside in May so buckle up! I will be there.

Set list:
Teacher, Teacher
Sit, Stay, Rollover
Ape
Judgement
I Speak Astronomy
Dreadful Moments
Who’s Gonna Be The One?
Retrospection
Perennial

On The Top
Bad Water
Outlander
No Hoard Value
Cloud Factory
Pisces
Captain Clock

10/18/2019
Motionless in White @ Apollo Theatre
Belvidere, IL

Having worked on a tour in which Motionless in White were direct support, it has been a very neat experience following their progress. The remaining member are still extremely nice and hands on in the show experience. The macabre imagery and feel of the stage fits the overall essence of the show. Very little on the stage is lit up except the Jack-o-lanterns that are spread throughout. The stage lights up on occasion with red and blue strobes that pierce through the smoke cover. Visually it is quite the spectacle. 

One by one each member comes out onto the stage. Both guitarist are finely dressed up in dress shirts and slacks. Bassist and drummer are covered head to toe in black paint. Finally, out walks their vocalist Chris, whom is wearing a shirt that screams and homage to Beetlejuice and face make up similar to that of Marilyn Manson’s early days. 

3 Best Songs:
Undead Ahead 2 - A true rock symphony in a nice and tight 4 and a half minutes. A pumpkin headed character running around on stage adding to the initial excitement of starting the show as well. It was a masterpiece in chaos. 
Immaculate Misconception -  Its just heavy as hell. It made the audience bounce up and down. From my vantage point in the balcony it looked like a huge wave of people moving front to back. From above the sound board I could also say it was the best sounding song of the evening.
Reincarnate - With this being the second song in the set it was basically continued on from the opener Undead Ahead 2. It was perfection though. For how heavy it is from the get go the room was buzzing. The entire band was head banging and doing in place spins as often as possible.

Set List:
Undead Ahead 2
Reincarnate
Necessary Evil
Disguise
Abigail
Broadcasting From Beyond
Voices
Headache
Immaculate Misconception
Not My Type
Brand New Numb
Catharsis
Eternally Yours

10/18/2019
After The Burial @ Apollo Theatre
Belvidere, IL

Set List:
Lost In The Static
Collapse
Behold The Crown
Exit, Exist
In Flux
Aspiration
A Wolf Amongst Ravens

10/17/2019
Madame Mayhem @ The Back Bar
Janesville, WI

There is a simple beauty in showing up to watch the others on a bill. Not just the headliners. Sometimes you will find hidden gems. This is how I discovered the ever so powerful vocal chords of Madame Mayhem. She was direct support for Adelita’s Way that night. Frankly, I was blown away at the time. Since that show I have jammed her “Ready For Me” album numerous times. It holds up as a one of the better albums I have bought within the last year or so. This is a huge reason I was excited for her to come back and play in the area again.  

The Back Bar is a small biker bar that is known for its hard rock and heavy metal gigs. Inside is a long and wide stage giving the artists room to roam. The Madame Mayhem entourage took full advantage of that. Madame Mayhem(Natalie Cohen) herself comes out onto the stage decked out in all black leather and lace with a studded jacket over top. She owns the all black look. She maybe short in stature, but she exudes an impressive aura of confidence. It is well earned after putting in years of work to fine tune her craft. The extensively trained musician commands attention the moment she enters from stage right. With a bright addictive smile she glares across the room. When the first note is strummed she unleashed one of many hair flips on the evening. From there she dances and bounces every square inch of the stage. Showing precise control of her dynamic vocal range you feel every word, note and emotion exuding from her. Lyrically, she expresses a lot about love, loss and life in general. Her voice fills the venue. She is so strong vocally it even drowns the instruments out at times. You cannot help, but enjoy the show. The banter and engagement in between the songs gave the audience multiple memorable moments for each individual there in attendance. All in all, the entire set was all wrapped into a very tight 40 minute set. They even threw in an Audioslave cover(Cochise) which was so freaking good I actually loaded it up on my playlist after the show.

Madame Mayhem’s backing band are extremely tight and in sync throughout. Extremely slick instrumentally as well. They are not a group that simply stand around. In their own right they demand attention with the same tenacity and resolve as their front woman. They move freely around the stage making it known they are simply not just any backing band. They force you feel every riff, note and chorus. 

Overall, I firmly believe you will be hearing more from Madame Mayhem in the near future. After the show is completed, she runs her merchandise stand. Once again she is amazingly approachable and kind to everyone. Giving out hugs and hand shakes. I brought one of the albums she sold me at the previous show to have signed. There was no issue with having that done. We chatted a few moments and I moved out of the way for others. These are the things some artists forget to do once they get some sort of success. This along with relentless touring and banging songs, there is no doubt it is only a matter of time before the country knows who she is. When she comes back through I will for sure be there again.
3
3 Best Songs:
1. War You Started. The song is performed at the top of the set list with such an intensity and vigor there was nothing to be skeptical about for the rest of the evening. The lyrical content and her pipes mesh so well that your just body moves and sways on instinct alone. It is a perfect lead song.
2. Broken. This is her current single. An absolute masterpiece that puts her vocals out there on full display. It is also backed with some unique guitar pieces. The tune is extremely fun to hear live. Especially after having spun it dozens of times at home.
3. So Wrong. It is simply a strong song. On stage this song was performed to perfection. Having Madame Mayhem out front and center singing ever so passionately into the microphone on a simple stand. It was rather impressive. You just felt empathetic to the story put out there. 

Setlist:

War You Started
Stand Up
Innocent
Breaking Down
Broken
Left For Dead
Cochise(Audioslave Cover)
I Am More
Cruel Heart
So Wrong
Monster

10/16/2019
Cold @ Apollo Theatre
Belvidere, IL

This show popped up on my radar 2 months beforehand. I was ecstatic. I have been listening to Cold albums since 1999. Despite them being spread so far out over the years I have them all. The new title “The Things We Can’t Stop” is their first release in 8 years. The disc is another gem. The last time I saw Cold was back in the early 2000s. Since then I have found my hidden photography skills and I was not going to miss this chance to capture a favorite of mine.
The stage at The Apollo Theatre is wide and deep. At the back of the stage is a huge white screen that has the new albums cover projected unto it. The stage fills with smoke as the entire band minus Scooter Ward take their places on stage.  After a the crowds initial screams Ward hits the stage. Just as if it was 2000 again the band hangs back in the darker corners while the smoke haze floats all over the room. Scooter as he always has wraps seemingly 3 feet of cable around his arm while cupping the microphone in the way only he can. The face and musical heart of Cold stands right on the edge of the stage nearly the entire performance. The lighting is almost non-existent. 2 large strobe pulse and spread across the stage and room. The ambience if I dare say it felt cold and crisp. It was ever so perfect.
Musically, they were very tight and on point. Cold’s bassist Lindsay Manfredi sways and moves back and forth all while laying down thunderous rumbling. I think the best part is she delivers it with a smile and grin the entire performance. It was something to remember. Sam McCandless back behind drums after joining after the tour started was a special treat. The long time off and on member felt right at home back there. Scooter often walked back towards him and exchanged words in between songs. Guitarists Nick Coyle and Jonny Nova are precise and in tune with each other. They couldn’t have more contrasting styles. Nova, gives the vibes of extreme professionalism. He doesn’t run around a stage, infact he is upfront swaying and feeling every riff he is dishing out. Coyle, is a showman. He provides a different feel. The former lead vocalist of Lifer gives the audience something the others don’t. He provides that erratic bounce. Coyle uses as much as the stage as he possibly can. In the end it is extremely hard to not be impressed. Personally, they have only gotten better under this line up of musicians. They are able to harness the essence and heart of the music easily.
I am so glad I was able to document a group of artists that still care about the visual aspects of performing. Before the show I ran into Scooter and Manfredi, I simply exchanged hellos and nothing more. They stopped and took photos with fans as well. When the headliners are hanging out in the crowd watching the openers it just shows that they “get it”. The bands established name and history leave no doubt they are going to continue gain interest in what is almost deemed a comeback tour. Producing such an unbelievably amazing album to tour on should help garner that. I for one will be there if the come back through
.
3 Best Songs:
Remedy - One of Colds better songs in my opinion set the room on fire. The song was performed like you were listening to it on the album. The audience sang it loud and clear. A fantastic way to kick the evening off.
Stupid Girl - Frankly, I was amazed by this. I personally am not a big fan of this song compared to others off of this album. Nonetheless it is a fan favorite. The best part about it was Cold literally rewrote the entire song and performed it at a much slower pace. It was so unique. I actually saw an interview with Scooter talking about wanting to rewrite songs at times. I truly hope they re-record it this way someday for all to hear.
Just Got Wicked - There is no better way to come out for the encore than to play your most well known track. Scooters voice was dead on despite not screaming at full pitch to start it. Memorable doesn’t explain the feel of the room nor the bands perfection playing this song. 

Set List:
Everyones A Devil
Remedy
Give 

Without You
No One 
The Break 
Suffocate
It’s All Good
When Angels Fly
Happens All The TIme
Confessions
Ocean
End of The World
Gods Song
Shine
Stupid Girl
Run
Just Got Wicked
Feel It in Your Heart

09/18/2019 
Pop Evil @ The Apollo Theatre
Belvidere, IL

Having seen Pop Evil a couple of times beforehand, I knew I was in for a great show. It was a rather neat evening that revealed they were playing an extended set list. This included songs they claim to have not played in a long while. Just hearing those words made my levels of anxiousness rise. Nothing like having a rock band that is high energy performing more than expected. It also made sense since the doors were opened earlier than normal. 

All in all, the band(whom is heading towards the end of their current run of shows) was in peak performance mode by the time they hit the Apollo Theatre. I was blown away by how proficient and technically sharp everyone was. I mean they were spot on note for note. Hayley Cramer destroyed her drum kit. Quick and tight snaps on the snare while also slinging across her symbols up top. She did this all while engaging with the crowd at every opportune moment. Its been a while since I’ve seen a drummer put on a show like that. 

Three stand out songs:
Trenches - Performing their hit song off of the “Onyx” album Pop Evil gave the enthused audience a moment to remember. Having additional vocals for the choruses provided by Justin Benlolo(Brkn Love) and Daniel Carriere(Royal Tusk) Pop Evil executed with an absolute proficiency. The guitar lead ripped by Nick Fuelling is an extremely catchy hook. Those string bends backed by thundering 808 hits shakes the room. The song itself exudes power. Physically, you have to move your body and head bang. Having all of the touring frontmen belting out “We have to dig our way out of the trenches” on the front edge of the stage was simply awesome. 

100 in a 55 - Slowing the show down with a song that led the entire room singing quite boisterously was marvelous. At one point it gave me the goose bumps. To hear the lyrics sung with such a bluesy grace live had my head really thinking about the words being sung. A true rock ballad in every sense. Leigh Kakaty gave possibly the best vocal rendition I’ve seen of the tune. It was stunning, dazzling and appreciative all wrapped into one. This is why the studio recording will never match a live performance. 

Colors Bleed - Another great tune with fantastic guitar leads. It is the song that really got the crowd moving. Nothing too flashy, but its the punch you in the mouth early 2000s song style that the entire band head banged and jumped all over the stage for. A real body mover for sure. Bassist Mike Dirito, jammed the hardest out of anyone. Having stomped and hair flipped through the entire song from his platform above the guitar cabs on stage left. 

Before I end this I just want people to know that bassist Mike Dirito has a cancer charity for kids called, Star Treatments. As a cancer patient myself I cannot love this enough. Check it out at  https://www.facebook.com/StarTreatmentsOrg/

Set List:
Footsteps (Go Higher)
Take It All
Ways to Get High
Last Man Standing
Bosses Daughter
Monster You Made
Hero
Behind Closed Doors
Rewind
100 in a 55
Colors Bleed
Deal With The Devil
Trenches
Torn to Pieces
Legendary
Waking Lions

07/21/2019 Dope @ The Apollo Theater

Having seen Dope on their tour for the “Felons and Revolutionaries” album almost 20 years ago I was really looking forward to seeing them again all of these years later. The best part about catching up with this band live is to see what has changed. Frankly, not much. They still kick ass in a live setting. Granted there has been turnover here and there the core 4 members are still there and giving it everything they have. To this day I still bump the Felons album so it was pretty cool to hear they would mainly be playing content off of it this tour. The best part is digging out all of their other albums and jamming those too just in case they sneak anything else into the set list. Absolutely worth the time invested.

As I stroll into The Apollo Theater, I spot some familiar faces and say “Hey” then I work my way up to the stage. The crowd has already filed in for this vintage bill and it was buzzing. Up front were a handful of fans decked out in Dope t-shirts. Quickly, I decided that was probably a great spot to stand and get clicks from. 

One by one the members of Dope take the pitch black stage. Once set the stage illuminated with their insignia on the backing digital board covering the entire back stage. The band fires into “Blood Money” as Edsel hits the stage with a strut and swagger that years on the road can only give you. From behind a metal pedestal the Dope front man lets out a growl along with several head bangs. the show is off and running. The folks behind me decked out in Dope gear screamed every song word for word. The rest of the packed crowd sang and moshed through the set. In all honesty it was almost deafening to be up front in the photo well. The band clearly soaked up the energy and projected it back through their physical performance. Edsel’s vocals were strong, heavy and intense. He completely controlled the stage. 

Even through the proclaimed “Shittiest song in history” a cover titled “Spin Me Round”. Acey and Virus gave in your face performances. Quite literally. They were on the edge of the stage engaging with the enthused audience. Hell, they leaned over and went right into my lens a few times. Note for note. Pick by pick. These guys were on it. High flying off of the metal pedestals when the opportunity arose. My images do not do the shows awesomeness any justice.

Best song of the night was “Debonaire” outside of a cover this was probably the most popular song of theirs. When the lead started the room really came alive. Bodies started moving around at a fevered pitch. The drums seemed to smack even louder than before. Ricci Shay really punished his kick all show. The whole band had really kicked up the intensity and power. I think that really goes to show their overall vitality and long term stamina. A true ability to survive and kick ass after 20 years in the business. 

With any luck I am hoping to get in for their Milwaukee show in December. They were so good I have to go back and catch them again on their anniversary tour. Kudos Dope, you made this album owner very, very happy. 

Set List:
- Blood Money
- 6 6 Sick
- Bring It On
- Debonaire
- Die MF Die
- I’m Back
- Sick 
- Burn
- Addiction
- Spin Me Round

07/21/2019 
Static-X @ Apollo Theatre AC
Belvidere, IL

Set List:
December(intro)
Bled
Wisconsin Death Trip
Fix
Sweat of The Bud
Love Dump
I AM
Ostegolation
Trance
Get to the Gone
Black & White
This is Not
Destroy All
Start a War
Behemoth
Cold
I’m With Stupid
Push It
Stem(outro)

03/31/2019
From Ashes to New @ Apollo Theatre AC
Belvidere, IL

Set List:
Pray For Me
My Fight
Forgotten
Through It All
Finally See
Broken
The Future
My Name
Enemy
Breaking Now
Crazy

03/31/2019
Palisades @ Apollo Theatre AC
Belvidere, IL

Set List:
War
Shed My Skin
Better Chemicals
Aggression 
Player Haters Ball
Vendetta
Let Down
Erase The Pain

03/31/2019
Ice Nine Kills
The Apollo Theatre
Belvidere, IL

Set List:
American Nightmare
Merry Axe-mas
Savages
The Jig is Up
Thank God Its Friday
Rocking the Boat
A Grave Mistake
Stabbing in the Dark
Me, Myself and Hyde
Communion of the Cursed
IT is the End

03/13/2019
Madame Mayhem @ The Annex
Madison, WI

Not knowing anyone on this bill outside of Shim, I was blown away by Madame Mayhem. This woman’s vocals are so strong they easily filled the room. On stage she was quite active. She moved around engaging with fans up front. It was a really in your face type of set. Tales of love and growth. I was so impressed I actually asked her what her favorite album of hers was and promptly purchased it. Next time she comes around I will be there for a full breakdown of her set.

Set List:
War You Started
Stand Up
Innocent
Hurt Me 
Left for Dead
Something Better
Monster

03/13/2019
Shim @ The Annex
Madison, WI

Set list:
A Brand New War
Riptide
Secrets
Kaleidoscopes
Odd One
Crucified
Maybe
Fearless
All of Me
Hallalujah
Cancer
Our Time
You’re Going Down
War
Sting Like a Bitch

03/02/2019
Bobaflex @ Crystal Grand Theatre
Wisconsin Dells, WI

Set List:
I am a Nightmare
Mama(Don’t Take My Drugs Away)
Chemical Valley
Better Than Me
Say What You Will
Bad Man
Never Coming Back 
Home
Spider in the Dark
Moon and Shadows
Lights Out
I’m Glad You’re Dead

Vampires
Hey You
Bury Me With My Guns On

03/01/2019
Wayland @ Apollo Theatre AC
Belvidere, IL

Set List:
Bloody Sunrise
Welcome to My Head
Through The Fire
Come Back
Reno
On My Knees
Through The Fire(played twice)
Indiana Jones
Shopping For a Saviour

Farewell To Fear @ The Back Bar 02/23/2019

Once again another show at The Back Bar that I eagerly waited for. I heard about these guys through a friend of mine. That conversation eventually led me to downloading their “Voices” debut album. A fantastic spin. It really had me wondering if these gentlemen held up to that standard live.

Despite them being the direct support for the show it was quite obvious that most of the room was there to see them. Plenty of fans wearing F2F gear and waiting out the openers to have their spots up front for the performance. The change over was fairly quick despite a few problems on the venues end. The band wasted no time what so ever hitting the stage after everything was ironed out. Opening with “Dead Generation” couldn’t have been more perfect. It is a great song to get fired up to right away. I wasn’t the only one who thought so either. Vocalist Mike Craig gave an strong and spirited performance through out. Giving solid head bangs and a plethora of mic stand leans into the crowd to simply engage those up front. Personally, his best performance was during “Underneath My Skin”. It felt as though it had deeper meaning than the others on night. His vocals were so, so tight all night. 

All in all, Farewell to Fear are nothing more than a straight forward punch you in the mouth kick ass rock band. To say I am eagerly awaiting a return gig would be an understatement.

1. Dead Generation
2. Wake Me Up
3. Your Cure
4. Broken Wings 
5. Underneath My Skin
6. Let GO
7. Waiting For Sunrise
8. Diamonds
9. Voices

Deadset Society (Final shows as a band)
12/07/2018 @ The Apollo Theatre AC, Belvidere, IL
12/08/2018 @ The Annex, Madison, WI
12/09/2018 @ Route 20, Sturtevandt, WI

Set List:
Since You’ve Gone Away
Numb
Automatic
Every Lie
Rearview Mirror
Born Again
Outside Looking In
Desperate Times
Like a Nightmare
Porn Star Dancing
Fall Apart

September Mourning

12/07/2018 @ The Apollo Theatre AC, Belvidere, IL
12/08/2018 @ The Annex, Madison, WI
12/09/2018 @ Route 20, Sturtevandt, WI

Set List:
Angels to Dust
Eye of The Storm
Stand By Me
Heart Can Hold
Skin and Bones
Till You See Heaven
Empire
Children of Fate
Glass Animals
20 Below

11/28/2018
Underoath @ The Rave
Milwaukee, WI

Underoath brought their entire catalog of songs with them on tour to support their brand new and fire album, “Erase Me.” The Rave was a perfect setting for this spectacle. A sizable room with history and a stage that can take the beating of equipment and 6 rockers. The stage was one of the most incredible set ups I have seen in years. 2 separate platforms one for keyboard and samples. The other for drums. Backed by huge light boards that run the entire stage length above and below it. The whole stage was illuminated in a multitude of colors all set. Please see images below. No explanation of mine could do it justice. It was that cool.

Due to an injury to a member of the direct support band, Underoath played and extended set list. It included songs that they have openly said they hadn’t played in years live. One of the coolest parts as a photographer was they gave us unlimited time in the photo pit to shoot. Not that I really needed it past 2 or 3 songs, but it is a nice and welcomed gesture on the bands behalf.

Truly though, this is a show I will remember for a long time. They were so on point and extremely tight in their execution. The mix of old with the new especially out of the gates with “On My Teeth” leading into “Young and Aspiring.” They basically signaled their gratitude towards long time fans, but gave those unfamiliar outside of their more recent stuff something to enjoy as well. Every song hit with maximum impact. Spencer Chamberlain’s vocals were stronger than ever. So precise in his delivery you could swear you were listening to their albums. The bands consistent engagement with those in attendance may set them apart from from their fellow genre peers. In my experience having the entire band hugging the edges of the stage for a full performance is a rarity. 

On the upper level, Aaron Gillespie slayed. The guy absolutely destroyed his kit. Every snare hit was clean and you felt it. In between slaps he would look up and share a multitude of facial expressions and smiles. Across from him, keyboardist Chris Dudley, laid out all digital aspects while dishing out a massive amount of head bangs. Every flash of light was a silhouette that looked like an artistic take. It was wild.

Even when the band dialing back for the acoustic cover of “Heart Shaped Box”, it hit. Everything hit. A longer set with very few gaps is extremely nice. Every ounce of energy they had was expended. This was a perfect performance and evening of music and fan appreciation. After seeing this Underoath, could hit the road without any support bands and crush it. If anything this proved it. 

Set List:
On My Teeth
Young and Aspiring
In Regards
Breathing In
Rapture
Blue Note
Dangerous Business
Illiminator
Desperate Times

I Hate It
Reinventing Your Exit
It Has To Start
Faultline
No Frame
Too Bright
Boy
I Gave Up
Heart Shaped Box
Writing on the Walls

11/30/2018
Crown The Empire @ The Rave
Milwaukee, WI

Set List:
Zero
Memories of a Broken Heart
20/20
What I Am
Hologram
The Fallout
Machines

P.O.D. @ WJJO Studios, Madison, WI 11/29/2018

Once again, I had the honor of attending and clicking an in studio appearance with WJJO Madison. The Johnny and Greg Half Assed Morning Show is extremely popular and extremely funny. The Gentlemen from P.O.D cracked plenty of their own jokes and even poked fun at the DJs themselves. The off air banter is really where events like this are fun. Stories and conversations of broad topics always pop up. For instance: We found out that P.O.D. took Linkin Park out on their very first tour. The guys personalities really shined and would’ve made even the casual fan perk up and listen. I was impressed and had a blast. 

As for the Performance, they played 4 songs(which are posted below). Arguably their biggest hit “Youth of the Nation” lead the event off. Requested by Johnny Danger, the band obliged an played the hit. It was a bit slower acoustically, but Sonny(vocalist) sang it with much heart and feeling. Kind of tugged at the heart strings. With how much is going on in the World today the songs meaning hits home more now than ever.

The final three songs are off of the two week old release “Circles.” They are extremely catchy. Listening to them made the head bob and body rock. Smooth is the best way to describe them. It was one of those small performances that packs a large punch. When I got home I put “Circles” on my album list. I guess it made a strong impact then.

Setlist:
1. Youth of the Nation
2. Always Southern California
3. Circles
4. Panic Attack