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concerthopperblog · 19 days

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The Blackout Tour Pt 2 Featuring From Ashes To New, Point North, Ekoh, Phix & Elijah

Get ready to rock this spring! From Ashes To New is all set to hit the road for a thrilling North American tour, and they're bringing along some amazing artists to make the journey even more electrifying! With Point North providing direct support and Ekoh, Phix, and Elijah joining in, this tour is going to be epic! Earlier this year, the band's lead singer Danny Case hinted at the tour's excitement saying "Part 1 was so wildly successful that had to run it back with a new stacked lineup!" The tour kicks off on Tuesday, April 30 in Albany, New York, and runs through Thursday, June 13 in Lincoln, Nebraska. And as if that wasn't enough, From Ashes To New will also be performing at some of the biggest rock festivals in the country, including Inkcarceration, Rock Fest, and Upheaval Fest! So, mark your calendars and get ready to rock out with From Ashes To New! Upon arriving at the venue, you could see the line of fans slowly growing down the block as they were being let inside. Once inside, you could see the excitement on fans' faces as they eagerly waited in line to pick up their favorite tour merchandise.

Elijah is the opening performer for this event, he seems like a mysterious person. Despite my efforts to learn about him, little information is available. However, while listening to his music, Elijah’s single "Human," released in 2023, features singer Matty Mullins from Memphis May Fire. He released his first EP in 2023 titled Fighting Myself. The EP features his popular singles "EASY TO DROWN" and "Virus". These guys started the show with a bang. The lead singer, Elijah, immediately jumped off the stage and onto the barricades to sing directly into the faces of his beloved fans. The energy in the room was electric as the crowd was completely captivated by the band's raw and intense performance.

Phix is an independent rapper hailing from Lubbock, Texas. He taught himself how to mix and master music at a young age and has now amassed over 1 million followers on TikTok. Although he only has one official album, he has several singles available for streaming online. Recently, Phix released a new single titled "WAR," which has earned a spot on Sirius XM's Octane station. His music is influenced by artists such as G-Eazy and Logic, and he incorporates a sound that is similar to Bring Me The Horizon and Bad Omens. During Phix's setup, other photographers and I were curious whether one of the members was helping set up the drum kit or if they would perform. Well, he blew us away. Brox Sandoval amazed us with his performance because he's only 11 years old and played the drums better than most adults. Even though part way through Phix’s set, the microphone cut out and they stopped their performance, they were still able to entertain the crowd. Brox jumped on the drums and showed us what he's made of with a little drum solo.

Ekoh aka Jeff Thompson is a songwriter who can blend different genres of music to create a unique and captivating music experience. He brings a true passion for the art of hip-hop music, which is a rare quality these days. Ekoh has created a sound that appeals to many music listeners by blending hip-hop with alternative rock and other genres. Ekoh has released eight albums since 2013, including the latest, "MAYDAY." He has performed with acts such as Wu-Tang Clan, Kottonmouth Kings, Everlast, Tech N9ne, and many more. During Phix, Ekoh made an appearance which got me excited to see his performance afterward. Unfortunately, the sound also cut out during his set, but the venue quickly got everything back on track for Ekoh. Even before Ekoh stepped onto the stage, the fans were warning us to watch our heads because Ekoh signs Vans (shoes) at each show. At the end of his set, he closed out with “Reverse” and then asked his fans to gently throw their shoes up on stage so he could sign each one.

Point North is a rock band based in Los Angeles, California. They made their debut in 2018 and have since released three albums, with the latest one titled Prepare For Disaster. The band has collaborated with several guest artists, such as The Ghost Inside, and Kellin Quinn of Sleeping With Sirens & Set It Off, and they have also been featured on the song "Body Bag" by Fran Roz. During Point North’s performance, I wasn't familiar with them until they started playing "Into The Dark." This song has earned a spot on my "must-listen" playlist after I discovered it on my "recommended songs" playlist. I love the vibe of their music. While they were performing, they displayed great energy, jumping around on the stage. They are another band I will be on the lookout to see again.

From Ashes To New is a metal band from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. During the band’s early years, From Ashes To New's lineup frequently changed, but musician Matt Brandyberry remained the founding and sole constant member. They have achieved success with many of their singles, including "Through It All", "Crazy", and "Panic", which reached peaks of 6, 3, and 11, respectively, on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart. Their latest album Blackout has produced successful singles such as “Nightmare,” & “Until We Break”. I remember meeting singer Danny Case when he was still a part of Vanity Strikes. He and another member of the band were walking down the line at Van's Warped Tour (I'm not sure which year), but they stopped to talk to my friends and me. When I learned that he would be joining From Ashes To New, I was excited to see where this would lead. It was finally time for From Ashes To New to take the stage. You could see the excitement on the members' faces, especially since Danny Case is a local to Rochester, NY. This show was close to selling out by 25 tickets, which makes a hometown show even better. Before the photographers could even get out of the pit, there were waves of crowd surfers flying over the barricades. The band played 16 songs throughout the night, with 2 of the songs, "Nightmare" featuring Ekoh and "Panic" featuring Elijah. From Ashes To New is a band I will be seeing again in the future.

This show was absolutely unforgettable! Each band was very personable. They met up with their fans at the merch booths after each of their respective sets. I hope you didn't miss out on this incredible experience. Be sure to stay updated with all the latest ConcertHopper news and events by following us on Instagram and Facebook. Keep on hopping!

#2024 #Concerthopper #Concert #Concert Photography #concert photos #metal #metal tours #Review #concert review

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concerthopperblog · 20 days

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Tour of the Valedores: John Garcia (formerly of Kyuss) Live at The Masquerade

John Garcia is a stoner rock/desert rock/heavy metal singer best known as the founding member and vocalist of several prominent bands in the desert/stoner rock genre: Kyuss, Slo Burn, Unida, and Hermano. Garcia has also performed with Vista Chino, formerly Kyuss Lives! (w/ former Kyuss bandmates Brant Bjork and Nick Oliveri), and John Garcia and the Band of Gold. One can say that Garcia has always kept himself busy within the music industry since starting his career with the legendary band Kyuss. Garcia’s discography is massive since he has participated in many bands over the years: Solo – three (3) LPs and one (1) split w/ Black Mastiff, Kyuss – five (5) LPs, Slo Burn – one (1) LP, Unida – two (2) LPs, Hermano – two (2) LPs, Hermano – three (3) LPs and one (1) Live record, Vista Chino – one (1) LP, and multiple guest appearances over his historic career.

Via his social media channels, Garcia announced on March 7th an ambitious tour that would feature Garcia playing songs from Kyuss, Hermano, and Slo Burn. The Tour of the Valedores would start in Madison on May 15th and conclude in Brooklyn at Elsewhere on May 29th. The Masquerade in Atlanta, GA. would host the Tour of the Valedores on May 19th and you know I would be there with camera in hand. For this tour, John Garcia’s band consists of John Garcia (vocals), John Bennet (guitars), Billy Cordell (bass), and Greg Saenz (drums). Garcia would call on some amazing artists to assist him with opening support on this tour; Jared James Nichols, Telekinetic Yeti, and Left Lane Cruiser.

Left Lane Cruiser is a blues rock/rockabilly/ punk blues band from Fort Wayne, Indiana formed in 2004. Left Lane Cruiser consists of Frederick “Joe” Evans IV (slide guitar/vocals) and Brenn Breck (drums/backing vocals) who are signed to Fat Possum Records. Left Lane Cruiser has released eleven (11) LPs since 2006 when they were previously signed to Hillgrass Bluebilly Records and Alive Records respectively. This would be my first time seeing Left Lane Cruiser live, and I was eager to see what they had to offer.

Starting the evening, Left Lane Cruiser kicked off with some bluesy rockabilly that got the crowd warmed up as they performed songs from their vast discography. This blues-rock hybrid duo knows how to get the crowd involved with their electrifying riffs and dynamic vocals. Left Lane Cruiser was the perfect band to kick off this celebration of John Garcia’s influential legacy.

Check out Left Lane Cruiser’s setlist from this evening’s performance:

· “Wash It”

· “Skinny Woman” (R.L. Burnside cover)

· “Claw Machine Wizard”

· “River Picker”

· “Backyard”

· “Turkey Vulture”

· “Hillgrass Bluebilly”

Follow this link to Left Lane Cruiser’s Official Bandcamp page today and check them out! Or head to their website and pick up some merchandise from their online shop.

Telekinetic Yeti is a stoner/doom metal band from Dubuque, Iowa that has made heads bang since 2015. Telekinetic Yeti consists of Alex Baumann (guitar/vocals) and Rockwell Heim (drums). They are signed to Sump Pump Records and have released two (2) LPs with Primordial (2022) being the latest release. You may recognize Telekinetic Yeti from my review a few weeks ago, Weedeater w/ Telekinetic Yeti, Restless Spirit, & Possum Rot Live at Grantski Records (ICYMI). I was excited to see Telekinetic Yeti again so soon based on their last performance at Grantski Records with Weedeater.

Adding to the list of powerful duos in the stoner/doom metal genre, Telekinetic Yeti commands the stage when they perform live at any venue. Tonight was textbook Yeti as they pulverized their way through each song on their setlist. You could see some Telekinetic Yeti fans in the crowd enjoying seeing one of their favorite bands rip up the stage in Hell at The Masquerade.

You can see Telekinetic Yeti’s setlist from The Masquerade below:

· “Ghost Train Haze”

· “Abominable”

· “Stoned and Feather”

· “Ancient Nug”

· “Toke Wizard”

· “Himalayan Hymn”

Show them love and check out Telekinetic Yeti’s Bandcamp page to stream some of their music.

Jared James Nichols is a blues rock/hard rock guitarist/singer from East Troy, Wisconsin who is most notable for his finger-picking technique on his electric guitar. Jared James Nichols has released three (3) LPs, two (2) EPs, and four (4) singles since 2015. Jared James Nichols is accompanied by Ryan Rice (drums) and Brian Weaver (bass) during his live performances. This would be my first time seeing Jared James Nichols perform live, but I did do some research before the show to see what Jared James Nichols was all about. Wow. The energy and vibe that you see on recordings does not do Jared James Nichols any justice, because his live performances are more captivating with his wild style of guitar picking mixed with his entire band’s energetic performance. And to top it off, Jared James Nichols ended their set with a crushing cover of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs”.

You can support Jared James Nichols by following this link to his official merchandise store or by supporting him through the Listenable Records official Bandcamp page today!

During the 90’s, I was fascinated with a few West Coast desert rock bands: Fu Manchu and Kyuss. The sound was not common during the 90’s, so I was intrigued with how loud they played but kept an invigorated and chill vibe throughout their discography. Kyuss broke up in 1995 and before I had a chance to see them play live. So, tonight was a special moment getting to see John Garcia performing songs from Kyuss and his other bands, Slo Burn and Hermano. Witnessing a legend perform his legacy live in front of you at The Masquerade with his friends backing him up is the stuff you tell your friends about. Plus, I cannot tell you the last time John Garcia came through Atlanta to perform, let alone take on the massive responsibility of performing songs from three of his influential bands.

John Garcia and his band arrived on stage and the crowd told them they were ready to rock! The time had finally come, and you could tell that the crowd was exhilarated as John Garcia and his band started their set with one of my favorite Kyuss songs “Gardenia” and proceeded to perform five more Kyuss songs in a row. Garcia brought out the songs “Cowboys Suck” and “The Bottle” from Hermano and “July” from his band Slo Burn. For an extra special treat, Garcia treated the crowd to “Dragona Dragona” from his days with the band Vista Chino.

John Garcia was very thankful and acknowledged gratitude for the crowd who came to rock out with him on a Sunday night in Atlanta. The funny thing is that I know we all thought the same thing about John Garcia and this tour. John Garcia rarely tours the East Coast, let alone the South. I know that this tour will go down as one of the best tours in 2024 hands down.

What a setlist curated by John Garcia and his band! Check out all the classics from John Garcia’s setlist from this tour stop at The Masquerade:

· “Gardenia” - Kyuss

· “Conan Troutman” (Outro) - Kyuss

· “Hurricane” (Ending) - Kyuss

· “Thumb” - Kyuss

· “Odyssey” - Kyuss

· “Cowboys Suck” – Hermano

· “Supa Scoopa and Mighty Scoop” (Outro) - Kyuss

· “The Bottle” – Hermano

· “July” – Slo Burn

· “100” - Kyuss

· “Writhe” (Riff) - Kyuss

· “Whitewater” - Kyuss

· “Phototropic” - Kyuss

· “One Inch Man” - Kyuss

· “Dragona Dragona” – Vista Chino

· “El Rodeo” - Kyuss

Encore:

· “Green Machine” – Kyuss

You can still catch John Garcia with Jared James Nichols, Telekinetic Yeti, and Left Lane Cruiser on tour on the following dates:

05/22: Detroit, MI @ Crofoot Theatre

05/23: Grand Rapids, MI @ Pyramid Scheme

05/25: Montreal, QC @ Club Soda

05/27: Hampton Beach, NH @ Wally's

05/28: Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer

05/29: Brooklyn, NY @ Elsewhere

Curious about Concerthopper? You can find more music-related articles, interviews, various photo galleries, indie music reviews, our ‘Bars & Bites’ section, our exclusive “She Said, She Said” column, or become a Concerthopper at www.concerthopper.com. Sign up for our monthly newsletter by following this link: The Setlist! Please ‘Like’ our page on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date in 2023, on all music-related events/festivals such as Ashes of Leviathan Tour: Mastodon & Lamb of God @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, An Evening with Goose (Night 3) @ The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), Least Anticipated Album Tour: A Day To Remember @ Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B, S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival w/ SLASH, Larkin Poe, ZZ Ward, and Robert Randolph – Live @ The Orion Amphitheater (Huntsville), Blackout Tour Pt. 2: From Ashes to New Live @ Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), Is For Lovers Tour (Fox Summer Stage), We Legalized It 2024: Cypress Hill, The Pharcyde, & Souls of Mischief: Live at Tabernacle, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: Live at The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Godmode Tour: In This Moment Live @ Landmark Theatre (Syracuse), Hawthrone Heights: 20 Years of Tears Tour (Sound @ Coachman Park), Catalyst 20 Years Later - New Found Glory: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, Underoath “They’re Only Chasing Safety” 20th Anniversary Tour: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, and Pallbearer w/ Rwake & The Keening @ The Masquerade (Atlanta) by following us on all social media formats: Concerthopper on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also follow my concert hopping on Facebook and Instagram.

#2024 #concert photography #Concert #Concerthopper #concert photos #Rock Music #Rock N' Roll #Blues #The Masquerade #Atlanta #georgia #Review #concert review

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concerthopperblog · 27 days

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We Legalized It 2024: Cypress Hill, The Pharcyde, & Souls of Mischief Live at Tabernacle

On January 16th, 2024, the legendary Cypress Hill announced one of the hottest tours in 2024, We Legalized It 2024 featuring Cypress Hill w/ California hip hop legends The Pharcyde & Souls of Mischief. It has been a goal of mine to photograph not only Souls of Mischief but also Cypress Hill, so this tour with The Pharcyde was icing on the cake for my hopes and dreams. I have seen Cypress Hill a few times over the years, but I knew this tour would be something special bringing out fellow West Coast vets The Pharcyde and Souls of Mischief.

Cypress Hill is a West Coast hip-hop/rap rock/hardcore hip-hop/gangsta rap/psychedelic rap group from South Gate, CA. that formed in 1988. Cypress Hill consists of Louis “B-Real” Freese (vocals), Senen “Sen Dog” Reyes (vocals), Eric “Eric Bobo” Correa (drums/percussion), Lawerence “DJ Muggs” Muggerud (turntables/samples) and while on tour Lord “DJ Lord” Asword (turntables/samples/vocals). It is worth noting that B-Real, Sen Dog, and DJ Muggs are founding members of Cypress Hill. They have released ten (10) LPs and have been nominated for numerous awards including the Grammy’s.

Souls of Mischief is a groundbreaking alternative hip-hop/West Coast hip-hop group from East Oakland, CA. forming in 1991. Souls of Mischief features A-Plus, Phesto, Opio, and Tajai (also most noted as members of the hip-hop supergroup Hieroglyphics). Souls of Mischief has released six (6) LPs and fourteen (14) Singles. They have released six (6) LPs (including the debut album 93’ Til Infinity) and various singles over their historic career. When I first heard their debut album in 1993, I was overcome by so many feelings and emotions after listening to this record. Each member’s lyrical techniques, the unique production of each track, the blissful feeling after listening to this album, and the positive message this group personifies make Souls of Mischief one of my all-time favorite hip-hop groups.

Last year, I was fortunate to catch Souls of Mischief on their 30th Anniversary ’93 Til Infinity tour at City Winery in Atlanta, GA. So, I had a feeling how energetic and addictive their live show would be. I was over the moon when Souls of Mischief started the night with “You Never Knew” a Hieroglyphics track. Since I have not seen Hieroglyphics perform yet, this was special for me, and I am sure more people in the crowd have been fans of Souls of Mischief/Hieroglyphics. Getting to hear Souls of Mischief play some of their hits off their debut album; “Let ‘em Know”, “Live and Let Live”, “’93 Til Infinity”, and “Never No More” was very satisfying after a long day before this concert. I appreciated seeing people of all ages in the crowd singing along to the Souls of Mischief set. It proved that no matter the era, if the music is good people will love it regardless of when it was released.

Check out Souls of Mischief’s Official website to see all their announced dates in 2024!

The Pharcyde is a progressive rap/alternative hip-hop group that formed in 1983 in South Central Los Angeles, CA. The Pharcyde has released four (4) LPs, one (1) EP, three (3) Compilations, eleven (11) Singles, and six (6) music videos. The Pharcyde’s first four albums are all incredible in the hip-hop genre, most notably their first two (2) releases: Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde and Labcabincalifornia. The original members of The Pharcyde included Imani (Emandu Wilcox), Slimkid3 (Trevant Hardson), Fatlip (Derrick Stewart), and Bootie Brown (Romye Robinson). The Pharcyde is currently touring with three original members: Imani, Slimkid3, and Fatlip.

My first time watching The Pharcyde perform was a rather eclectic tour in 1996 at the long-forgotten venue International Ballroom in Atlanta, GA. This was the Life is Peachy Tour headlined by Korn which had none other than The Pharcyde as one of the openers. So, it has been quite a while since I had the chance to see The Pharcyde do their thing on stage. The crowd in attendance was treated to some of The Pharcyde’s best tracks: “Ya Mama”, “Passin’ Me By”, “Runnin”, and “Oh Shit” to name a few. You could see The Pharcyde having way too much fun on stage, and I know they enjoyed the crowd’s eager participation throughout their electrifying set. I hope that The Pharcyde can continue this bizarre ride they have created over the years and keep rocking crowds in the future.

Check out The Pharcyde’s Official YouTube Channel so you can listen to some of their music today!

Cypress Hill has performed phenomenally every time I have seen them play live. At last year’s Shaky Knees (2023) performance, Cypress Hill performed their second album, Black Sunday, in its entirety to celebrate the 30th anniversary of that album. Once DJ Lord warmed up the crowd, Cypress Hill started the night off with a classic track off Black Sunday, “Cock the Hammer”, and the crowd went wild rapping along to B-Real and Sen Dog. Since the start of Souls of Mischief’s set, the crowd kept ahold of the same intense vibe throughout each set. As Cypress Hill blazed through track after track from their 36-year career, I was elated to hear a good number of tracks from their self-titled debut album Cypress Hill and Black Sunday. To end the set, Cypress Hill had the help of some special friends including DJ Hurricane, Prince Paul, The Pharcyde, Souls of Mischief, and members of the Dungeon Family to perform a snippet of House of Pain’s “Jump Around”.

Check out Cypress Hill’s career-spanning setlist from Tabernacle in Atlanta, GA. below:

· DJ Lord Intro

· “Cock the Hammer”

· “Real Estate”

· “Hand on the Pump”

· “When the Shit Goes Down”

· “A to the K”

· “Tequila Sunrise”

· “Low Rider”

· “Latin Lingo”

· DJ Lord + Perc Instrumental Battle

· “Stoned is the Way of the Walk”

· “New Weed Medley”

· “Illusions”

· “Boom Biddy Bye Bye”

· “Throw Ya Set in the Air”

· “Ain’t Going Out Like That”

· “How I Could Just Kill a Man”

· “Insane in the Membrane”

· “(Rap) Super Star”

· “Jump Around” (snippet of House of Pain cover w/ Prince Paul, DJ Hurricane, members of the Dungeon Family, The Pharcyde, and Souls of Mischief)

Head to Cypress Hill’s Official Merchandise page today and grab some We Legalized It 2024 merch and much more! You can also view Cypress Hill’s Official tour page to see if they are coming close to you in 2024!

Curious about Concerthopper? You can find more music-related articles, interviews, various photo galleries, indie music reviews, our ‘Bars & Bites’ section, our exclusive “She Said, She Said” column, or become a Concerthopper at www.concerthopper.com. Sign up for our monthly newsletter by following this link: The Setlist! Please ‘Like’ our page on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date in 2023, on all music-related events/festivals such as Tour of the Valedores: John Garcia Live at The Masquerade, Ashes of Leviathan Tour: Mastodon & Lamb of God @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, An Evening with Goose (Night 3) @ The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), Least Anticipated Album Tour: A Day To Remember @ Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B, S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival w/ SLASH, Larkin Poe, ZZ Ward, and Robert Randolph – Live @ The Orion Amphitheater (Huntsville), Blackout Tour Pt. 2: From Ashes to New Live @ Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), Is For Lovers Tour (Fox Summer Stage), King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: Live at The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Godmode Tour: In This Moment Live @ Landmark Theatre (Syracuse), Hawthrone Heights: 20 Years of Tears Tour (Sound @ Coachman Park), Catalyst 20 Years Later - New Found Glory: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, Underoath “They’re Only Chasing Safety” 20th Anniversary Tour: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, and Pallbearer w/ Rwake & The Keening @ The Masquerade (Atlanta) by following us on all social media formats: Concerthopper on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also follow my concert hopping on Facebook and Instagram.

#2024 #concert photography #Concert #concert review #Concerthopper #Rap #hip hop #photography #Atlanta #georgia #tabernacle #Cypress Hill #Souls of Mischief #The Pharcyde

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concerthopperblog · 1 month

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The Storm Has Arrived: High on Fire w/ ZETA & High Command Live at The Senate

Grammy award-winning High on Fire is a doom/heavy/stoner/thrash/sludge metal band from Oakland, CA. which formed in 1998 after frontman Matt Pike’s former band Sleep took on a hiatus. High on Fire now consists of Pike (guitar/vocals), Jeff Matz (bass), and Coady Willis (drums). High on Fire has released nine (9) LPs, three (3) Live albums, two (2) EPs, four (4) Splits, ten (10) music videos, and four (4) singles. Their latest release, Cometh the Storm, was released on April 19th, 2024, on MNRK Heavy. Since its release, Cometh the Storm has charted high across the board with the music industry: #5 Current Rock Album, #1 Record label Independent Current Album, #3 Current Hard Music Album, #10 Current Digital Album, and #11 Digital Albums just to highlight a select few. As a longtime fan of High on Fire, Cometh the Storm is moving up to the Top 3 in my favorite albums by High on Fire. Snakes for the Devine (2010) and Blessed Black Wings (2005) would round out my Top 3 albums by High on Fire.

High on Fire announced via their socials on March 19th that they would tour in support of their latest release, and I noticed that The Senate in Columbia, S.C. made the cut for this tour. For opening support, High on Fire enlisted the help of High Command and ZETA. This would be my first time attending a show, and for that matter doing photography at this venue in Columbia, S.C. Now that I think about it, High on Fire would be my first show doing photography in the state of South Carolina. Truthfully, I know I am very fortunate to have this opportunity, and want to do my utmost best!

High Command is a thrash metal/crossover/hardcore punk band from Worcester, MA. that formed in 2016. High Command consists of Kevin Fitzgerald (vocals), Chris Berg (bass), Ryan McArdle (guitar), Razzle (guitar), and Ryan Pitz (drums). They have released two (2) LPs, two (2) EPs, one (1) split video, and one (1) Demo. They are currently signed to Southern Lord Recordings and their latest release is entitled Eclipse of the Dual Moons (2022). I first listened to High Command on the Bandcamp app when they were announced at tour mates. “Merciless Steel” off Beyond the Wall of Desolation and “Imposing Hammers of Cold Sorcery” off Eclipse of the Dual Moons were played during this set so I was happy to hear a few of my favorite tracks from High Command performed live. Their set was just as vicious and full of power as I expected from streaming their music before the show. I hope to see High Command later down the road during one of their headline tours or as opening support for another wicked band.

Check out High Command’s setlist from the second night of this tour below:

· “Omniscient Flail of Infamy”

· “Merciless Steel”

· “Everlasting Torment”

· “Fortified by Bloodshed”

· “Sword of Wisdom”

· “Imposing Hammers of Cold Sorcery”

· “Impaled Upon the Gates”

· “Eclipse of the Dual Moons”

· “Inexorable Darkness”

Show High Command some support and head to their Official Bandcamp page today to grab some merchandise.

Zeta is a Venezuelan post-rock band that was founded in 2003 in Lecheria. Zeta consists of founding members Juan Chi (multiple instruments/vocals) and Dani Debuto (multiple instruments/vocals) with Chino Sandoval (drums) and Antonio Pereira (bass). Zeta has released six (6) LPs, two (2) Live albums, one (1) EP, and two (2) cassettes. I knew that Zeta performed at Grantski Records in Augusta, GA. a few months back, and I knew I should have made that show. Instant FOMO. I knew Zeta and how great this band would be live. But I had no clue of the magnitude until I saw Zeta perform at The Senate. Phenomenal musicianship with an electrifying performance!

You can view Zeta’s setlist from The Senate below:

· “Intro”

· “II Afrontar”

· “III Sufrir”

· “IV Perder”

· “Yo el peor de todos (somos cosmos) XXV”

· “V Completar”

· “La flor del tiempo”

· “VII Magia infinita”

Check out ZETA‘s Official Bandcamp page today and show them some love!

Closing out the evening, High on Fire took the stage at The Senate with a thunderous roar from the pumped-up crowd in attendance. After being warmed up with both High Command and Zeta, you could see the excitement in the crowd’s faces as “Karanlik Yol” played over the venue’s loudspeakers. You could almost feel the anticipation as the crowd wondered what song would kick off their set. In honor of their new release and the first single from Cometh the Storm, the introduction to “Burning Down” riled up the crowd as this was the second time that High on Fire has played this song (or any song off the new album) live for their fans. Trust me when I say, that “Burning Down” was just as ferocious live and left a lasting impression on me. I was happy to see “Come Down Hessian”, “Rumors of War”, “Carcosa”, “Fury Whip”, and one of my all-time favorite High on Fire songs “Snakes for the Divine” on the setlist for this tour.

You can check out High on Fire’s setlist from the second stop of their tour at The Senate in Columbia, SC. below:·

· “Karanlik Yol” (Intro)

· “Burning Down” (2nd time playing live)

· “Turk”

· “Fertile Green”

· “Hung, Drawn, and Quartered”

· “Last”

· “Come Down Hessian”

· “Cometh The Storm” (2nd time playing live)

· “Rumors of War”

· “Carcosa”

· “Fury Whip”

· “Sol’s Golden Curse” (2nd time playing live)

· “Snakes for the Devine”

· “Darker Fleece” (2nd time playing live)

Head to High on Fire’s Official Bandcamp page today and order the new album, Cometh The Storm, today! Or stream some of their music by following this link!

I.C.Y.M.I. Check out my previous review featuring the mighty High on Fire when they headlined the Snowblind Festival at The Masquerade in Atlanta, GA. courtesy of Concerthopper.

You can still catch this tour featuring High on Fire w/ ZETA & High Command at the following dates:

May 13 The Middle East Boston, MA.

May 15 Empire Live Albany, N.Y.

May 16 Grog Shop Cleveland, OH.

May 17 The Magic Stick Detroit, MI.

May 18 Dark Lord Day* Chicago, IL.

*Without ZETA and High Command.

Curious about Concerthopper? You can find more music-related articles, interviews, various photo galleries, indie music reviews, our ‘Bars & Bites’ section, our exclusive “She Said, She Said” column, or become a Concerthopper at www.concerthopper.com. Sign up for our monthly newsletter by following this link: The Setlist! Please ‘Like’ our page on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date in 2023, on all music-related events/festivals such as Tour of the Valedores: John Garcia Live at The Masquerade, , Ashes of Leviathan Tour: Mastodon & Lamb of God @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, An Evening with Goose (Night 3) @ The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), Least Anticipated Album Tour: A Day To Remember @ Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B, S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival w/ SLASH, Larkin Poe, ZZ Ward, and Robert Randolph – Live @ The Orion Amphitheater (Huntsville), Doyle & Otep Live at The Ranch (Ft. Myers), Blackout Tour Pt. 2: From Ashes to New Live @ Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), Is For Lovers Tour (Fox Summer Stage), We Legalized It 2024: Cypress Hill, The Pharcyde, & Souls of Mischief: Live at Tabernacle, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: Live at The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Godmode Tour: In This Moment Live @ Landmark Theatre (Syracuse), Hawthrone Heights: 20 Years of Tears Tour (Sound @ Coachman Park), Catalyst 20 Years Later - New Found Glory: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, Underoath “They’re Only Chasing Safety” 20th Anniversary Tour: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, and Pallbearer w/ Rwake & The Keening @ The Masquerade (Atlanta) by following us on all social media formats: Concerthopper on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also follow my concert hopping on Facebook and Instagram.

#2024 #Concerthopper #concert photography #Concert #concert review #Doom metal #Doom #Columbia #South Carolina #The Senate #music #Review

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concerthopperblog · 1 month

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Weedeater w/ Telekinetic Yeti & Restless Spirit and Possum Rot Live at Grantski Records!

On March 19th, Grantski Records announced that stoner metal legends Weedeater w/ Telekinetic Yeti & Restless Spirit would grace their stage on the final slot for their current tour. I knew this show would sell out or get close to it. Having these three metal bands play downtown in Augusta, GA is a huge deal for the metalheads in the area. Grantski Records has been booking some killer metal acts of all kinds since they built the stage in their record store. And since then, metal bands have kept coming to tear up downtown Augusta. This Saturday evening was no different with this wicked lineup that melted some minds with each blistering performance. Many thanks to Evan at Grantski Records for keeping his commitment to revitalizing the scene in downtown Augusta, GA.

Kicking off the evening was one of my favorite Georgia metal bands, Possum Rot. Possum Rot is a stoner metal band from Augusta, Georgia that formed back in 2017. The band consists of Matt Poppell (vocals/guitar), Tyler Milford (vocals/bass), and Evan Grantski (drums). They have released four (4) singles to date: “Do It Again”, “Pestilence”, “Smoke”, and “Prisoner of The Dirt”. Imagine if Black Sabbath and Red Fang had a doom/sludge metal love child, then that could describe the power that Possum Rot exhumes while on stage. This would be my second time seeing Possum Rot after finally getting the chance when they opened for Bongzilla last year at Grantski Records. I still feel guilty for not catching Possum Rot perform all these years, but you must start sometimes I suppose.

Check out their socials and consider giving Possum Rot some support on Instagram and Facebook. Follow this link to Possum Rot’s Official Bandcamp page today and give them some support!

Restless Spirit is a stoner/doom metal band from Long Island, N.Y. that has been active since 2018 and signed to Magnetic Eye Records. Restless Spirit consists of Marc Morello (bass, Paul Aloisio (guitar/vocals), and Jon Gusman (drums). They have released three (3) LPs, four (4) EPs, and one (1) single. Restless Spirit took the stage and proceeded to rip through a set of some of their most powerful songs for the crowd at Grantski Records. This was my first time catching Restless Spirit and I was excited to see them perform in such a small, intimate venue. The energy they proceeded to give the crowd while performing on stage is electric and I recommend you take the time to check them performing live or on any music streaming platform.

Check out Restless Spirit’s setlist from their Grantski Records performance:

· “Judgement and Exile”

· “Marrow”

· “Miserable Existence/Unrest”

· “Cascade Immolator”

· “Lord of the New Depression”

· “From the Dust Returned”

· “All Furies”

Head over to Restless Spirit’s Official Bandcamp page today and check out some rad tunes!

Telekinetic Yeti is a stoner/doom metal band from Dubuque, Iowa, making heads bang since 2015. Telekinetic Yeti consists of Alex Baumann (guitar/vocals) and Rockwell Heim (drums). They are signed to Sump Pump Records and have released two (2) LPs with Primordial (2022) being the latest release. Like Restless Spirit, this would be my first time watching Telekinetic Yeti, and this performance did not let me down. I know a few people in attendance who have never seen them perform like me and left that night as fans of Telekinetic Yeti. For a duo, Telekinetic Yeti can pack a mighty punch and get very loud. In a few weeks, Telekinetic Yeti will make another appearance in my column when they open for John Garcia (Kyuss/Slo Burn/Hermano/Unida/John Garcia and the Band of Gold) at The Masquerade in Atlanta later in May.

You can see Telekinetic Yeti’s setlist from this evening’s show below:

· “Ghost Train”

· “Abominable”

· “Stoned and Feathered”

· “Ancient Nug”

· “Toke Wizard”

· “Stoned Ape Theory”

· “Himalayan Hymn”

Show them love and check out Telekinetic Yeti’s Bandcamp page to stream some of their music.

Wilmington, N.C. natives Weedeater, a stoner/sludge metal band, was founded in 1998. Weedeater consists of founding members Dave “Dixie” Collins (bass/vocals), Dave “Shep” Shepherd (bass), and Ramzi Ateyeh (drums) who joined the band in 2019. Weedeater has released five (5) LPs and has been signed to the French record label Season of Mist since November 2013. “Dixie” Dave Collins has been a part of some seminal bands in the stoner/sludge metal genre such as Buzzov*en, Bongzilla, Sourvein, Barstul, and Hail! Hornet in addition to being a founding member of Weedeater.

And now for the grand finale featuring the mighty Weedeater! What started with one of my favorite Weedeater songs, “Hammer Handle”, became one of the most ruthless Weedeater sets that I have seen. We were even treated to “God Luck and Good Speed” and back-to-back “Wizard Fight” which are also two songs from their discography that are always great to see live. We even had a special guest appearance from Black Tusk’s drummer James May on the Lynyrd Skynyrd cover “Gimme Back My Bullets” near the end of the night. I saw many smiles from people in the crowd as Weedeater performed a set of songs from their brutal discography.

Check out Weedeater’s setlist from this evening in Augusta, GA:

· “Hammer Handle”

· “Mancoon”

· “Turkey Warlock”

· “God Luck and Good Speed”

· “Wizard Fight”

· “For Evan’s Sake”

· “$20 Peanut”

· “Dirt Merchant”

· “Jason… The Dragon”

· “Monkey Junction”

· “Time Served”

· “Gimme Back My Bullets” (Lynyrd Skynyrd cover w/ Black Tusk’s James May)

· “Weed Monkey”

Weedeater is headed back on tour in the coming days with Rebelmatic and Cancerslug plus some dates supporting the legendary GWAR:

May 13 Chapel Hill, NC Local 506+

May 14 Savannah, GA El Rocko Lounge+

May 15 Knoxville, TN Brickyard+

May 16 Gainesville, GA Blackstrap Music Hall+

May 17 Little Rock, AR Mutants of the Monster Fest

May 19 Vancouver, BC Modified Ghost

May 21 Seattle, WA El Corazon^

May 22 Portland, OR Bossanova Ballroom^

May 24 Felton, CA Felton Music Hall^

May 25 Sacramento, CA Café Colonial^

May 26 Berkeley, CA Cornerstone^

May 28 Palmdale, CA Transplants^

May 30 Los Angeles, CA Regent Theatre^

May 31 Las Vegas, NV Swan Dive^

June 1 Phoenix, AZ Pub Rock^

June 2 Albuquerque, NM Inside Out^

June 3 Denver, CO HQ^

June 5 Chicago, IL Livewire^

June 7 Hartford, CT The Webster#

June 8 Reading, PA Reverb#

June 9 Washington, DC 9:30 Club#

June 11 Columbia, SC The Senate#

June 12 Lexington, KY Manchester Music Hall#

June 13 Boone, NC Lily’s@

June 14 Birmingham, AL Iron City#

June 15 Memphis, TN Minglewood Hall#

June 16 Destin, FL Club LA#

June 17 Tampa, FL The Ritz#

+ Cancerslug

^ Rebelmatic

# Supporting GWAR

@ Weedeater only

I.C.Y.M.I. Follow this link to check out a previous review for Weedeater (circa 2019) via Concerthopper and/or when they played the Snowblind Festival at The Masquerade in Atlanta, GA. Also, you can follow this link to check out Weedeater’s Official Bandcamp page today!

Curious about Concerthopper? You can find more music-related articles, interviews, various photo galleries, indie music reviews, our ‘Bars & Bites’ section, our exclusive “She Said, She Said” column, or become a Concerthopper at www.concerthopper.com. Sign up for our monthly newsletter by following this link: The Setlist! Please ‘Like’ our page on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date in 2023, on all music-related events/festivals such as Tour of the Valedores: John Garcia Live at The Masquerade, Outline in Color: Live at Montage Music Hall (Rochester), North American Tour 2024: Opeth Live at Tabernacle, High on Fire: Live at The Senate (Columbia), The Bunny, The Bear: Live at Rec Room (Buffalo), Ashes of Leviathan Tour: Mastodon & Lamb of God @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, An Evening with Goose (Night 3) @ The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), Least Anticipated Album Tour: A Day To Remember @ Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B, S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival w/ SLASH, Larkin Poe, ZZ Ward, and Robert Randolph – Live @ The Orion Amphitheater (Huntsville), Doyle & Otep Live at The Ranch (Ft. Myers), Blackout Tour Pt. 2: From Ashes to New Live @ Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), Is For Lovers Tour (Fox Summer Stage), We Legalized It 2024: Cypress Hill, The Pharcyde, & Souls of Mischief: Live at Tabernacle, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: Live at The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Godmode Tour: In This Moment Live @ Landmark Theatre (Syracuse), Hawthrone Heights: 20 Years of Tears Tour (Sound @ Coachman Park), Catalyst 20 Years Later - New Found Glory: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, Underoath “They’re Only Chasing Safety” 20th Anniversary Tour: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, and Pallbearer w/ Rwake & The Keening @ The Masquerade (Atlanta) by following us on all social media formats: Concerthopper on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also follow my concert hopping on Facebook and Instagram.

#2024 #concert photography #concert review #Concert #Concerthopper #grantski records #Weedeater #possum rot #telekinetic yeti #restless spirit #metal #metal tours #Doom metal #Doom #sludge #Review #Augusta #georgia

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concerthopperblog · 1 month

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Review: Will Kimbrough- For the Life of Me

We live in a time of near unprecedented division; political, racial, social, and economic. Many of us even spent a year physically divided from many of our loved ones due to a global pandemic. Division of all kinds is a theme on Will Kimbrough's new album For the Life of Me.

The album's highlight is the mid-tempo ramble “I Don't Want to Start a War.” It's the tale of an '80s Deadhead who fast-forwards to 2021 and finds himself a part of the insurrectionist mob at the Capitol. That may seem like a far jump for one man, but Kimbrough deftly connects the two extremes via a feeling of community. The same feel of community the song's '80s teen felt down on Shakedown Street is the one a more cynical and jaded 50-year-old gets in a MAGA crowd. “Tie-dyed peace sign / flying by a pillared mansion white /Then you swapped that rag / for a MAGA flag in the thick-aired Selma night,” Kimbrough recites as his song's subject falls deeper into his new community. “He says love fell out of style,” Kimbrough laments.

“The Other Side” is another song about political divisions. A jangle-pop guitar anthem that reminds me a bit of Kimbrough's '80s band Will and the Bushmen, it's a call for peace in a time when no one seems much interested in it. “Everything ain't black and white / There's a hundred million shades of grey,” Kimbrough notes, before ripping into a guitar solo that will remind you why he's been one of Nashville's most in-demand session guitarists for decades and has been one of Emmylou Harris' Red Dirt Boys for years.

The album's most searing track is “Clotilda's on Fire.” Originally written for Shemekia Copeland (whose own version is excellent) for the Kimbrough-produced Uncivil War. It's the story of The Clotilda, widely considered to be the last slave ship to land on American shores, in Kimbrough's home of Mobile, AL. The burned wreckage of The Clotilda was recently found and sparked much discussion in and about the community of Africatown that rose from the survivors of The Clotilda. It's a tale of the ultimate division and resilience in the face of that division.

If you're willing to step back from the divide and engage in discourse with someone on the opposite side of the political/social/wealth/racial aisle than you, you're Will Kimbrough's kind of person. Throughout For the Life of Me (especially the album's title track), he pleas for understanding, civility, and a place at the table for everyone. As he says in his John Lewis ode “Rivers of Roses,” “we've got a long way to go / but we've come a long way too.”

#will kimbrough #americana #album review #2024 #Concerthopper #review #Album Review

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concerthopperblog · 1 month

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The Infamous Stringdusters & Leftover Salmon w/ The Kitchen Dwellers Live at The Eastern

On December 5th, 2023, Leftover Salmon announced via their social media channels that they would join their good pals The Infamous Stringdusters with special guests The Kitchen Dwellers during two very special shows: April 25th, 2024 at The Eastern in Atlanta, GA. and April 26th, 2024 at The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN. Lucky for this Concerthopper, Atlanta made the cut on this special two-date throw-down with Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, and The Kitchen Dwellers. I know that I may cover a lot of metal bands for Concerthopper because that is what I grew up listening to. But bluegrass/Americana was also mixed in there for good measure as I was growing up.

Staring the night off, The Kitchen Dwellers made a statement with a phenomenal set chock full of some of the best hits from their discography. The Kitchen Dwellers are a progressive bluegrass/jam grass/Galaxy Grass band based out of Bozeman, MT. that has been active since 2010. Currently, The Kitchen Dwellers consists of Torrin Daniels (banjo), Shawn Swain (mandolin), Joe Funk (upright bass), and Max Davies (acoustic guitar). They have released five (5) LPs with Seven Devils being the most current release. I first saw The Kitchen Dwellers last year at Hulaween and fell in love with their sound.

Their style of Galaxy Grass is psychedelic bluegrass mixed with a progressive bluegrass style that always equals a great time. And this evening at The Eastern was no exception as I saw everyone dancing and singing along to The Kitchen Dwellers’ epic performance. If you are a bluegrass/Americana music fan, I recommend you check out The Kitchen Dwellers and listen to them as soon as possible.

Check out The Kitchen Dwellers’ setlist from The Eastern (04/25/2024) below:

· “Smokestack”>

· “Pendulum”

· “June Apple”

· “Wind Bitten”

· “Drop Tine”>

· “Drowning (…Again)”

· “New Horizons”

Check out their latest album plus more at The Kitchen Dweller’s Official Bandcamp page today! You can also catch The Kitchen Dwellers on tour in 2024 by following this link to their tour page.

I.C.Y.M.I. You can also check out Chris Griffy’s review of The Kitchen Dwellers' latest LP, Seven Devils, exclusively published by Concerthopper.com.

Leftover Salmon is a progressive bluegrass/jam band/Zydeco/country band from Boulder, CO. formed in 1989. Leftover Salmon consists of Vince Herman (vocals/guitar/washboard), Drew Emmitt (vocals/mandolin/fiddle/electric guitar), Greg Garrison (vocals/bass), Andy Thorn (banjo/electric banjo/vocals), Alwyn Robinson (drums/vocals), and Jay Sterling (keyboard/dobro). Herman and Emmitt are founding members of Leftover Salmon and have also played together in another band named Left Hand String Band. Leftover Salmon has released ten (10) LPs, one (1) Live album, and one (1) compilation with their latest release entitled Grass Roots (released May 19, 2023).

The crowd let Leftover Salmon know how excited they were as soon as the band took the stage with a ferocious cheer. I put Leftover Salmon up there with the likes of The String Cheese Incident and Greensky Bluegrass regarding how well they jam during their performances. They have been on my rotation for ages now and I do not see them getting removed anytime soon. Especially after getting to witness Leftover Salmon cover not one but two of my favorite artists: George Michael and The Allman Brothers Band.

The crowd was eager to join in as Leftover Salmon performed a flawless cover of “Freedom ’90” by the late George Michael. I am not going to lie, I was also part of the eager crowd ready to join in on the fun being had by the band. Also, Leftover Salmon performed a tribute for the late Dickey Betts by performing “Sweet Melissa”. Seeing Leftover Salmon smile and laugh while they performed their set makes my heart happy because I know that they are just as jovial as we are standing in the crowd. Artists who care about the music and show it while on stage are something that you do not see every day. And when you do, those are the artists that stick with you as you continue this journey, we call life.

Check out this amazing setlist from Leftover Salmon at The Eastern (04/25/2024) in Atlanta, GA.

· “Boogie Grass Band”

· “Liza”

· “Doin’ My Time”

· “Brand New God”

· “Something Higher”

· “Freedom ‘90” (George Michael cover)

· “Georgie Lou”

· “Bird Call”

· “Sweet Melissa” (Allman Brothers Band cover)

· “Hobo Song”

· “Dance on Yer Head”

· “Two Highways”

· “Better”

Head over to Leftover Salmon’s Official Bandcamp page today and show them some support! Leftover Salmon has plenty of tour dates scheduled in 2024 so you still have a chance to catch them playing near you.

The Infamous Stringdusters is a Grammy award-winning progressive bluegrass/folk/country/jam band from Nashville, TN that first appeared back in 2006. The Infamous Stringdusters consists of Andy Hall (dobro), Andy Falco (guitar), Chris Pandolfi (banjo), Jeremy Garrett (fiddle), and Travis Book (double bass). They have released thirteen (13) LPs, four (4) EPs, one (1) Live album, and several singles over the years. Their latest release is entitled A Tribute to Flatt & Scruggs and is a fitting tribute to the kings of bluegrass music Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs.

Closing out the evening, The Infamous Stringdusters came on stage to the crowd's roar at The Eastern this Thursday evening. After being warmed up by both The Kitchen Dwellers and Leftover Salmon, you could see the pure joy in the crowd’s faces as The Infamous Stringdusters began their set. Their electrifying setlist covered songs from their nearly two-decade storied career and even a few exciting covers to close the night. I can only imagine the fun and excitement the good folks attending the following night’s event at The Ryman felt seeing this incredible display of musicianship by all three bands.

You can see The Infamous Stringdusters’ setlist from The Eastern (04/25/2024) below:

· “Long Lonesome Day”

· “Hillbillies”

· “I Didn’t Know”

· “Wings Upon Our Feet”

· “Colorado”

· “Will You Be Lonesome Too?”

· “Night on the River”

· “Well, Well”

· “He’s Gone”

· “Polka on a Banjo” (Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs & The Foggy Mountain Boys cover)

· “2001”

· “Blockygrass”

· “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink” (Merle Haggard cover)

Encore:

· “9 Pound Hammer” (w/ Drew Emmitt, Andy Thorn, and Max Davies) (Traditional Americana cover)

Follow this link to The Infamous Stringduster’s Official Bandcamp page today and check them out! You still have an opportunity to catch The Infamous Stringdusters on tour in 2024 so check out their scheduled tour dates today! I.C.Y.M.I. - You can also see previously published reviews exclusively on Concerthopper featuring both Leftover Salmon and The Infamous Stringdusters: Papa Joe’s Banjo-B-Que (2019) & Papa Joe’s Banjo-B-Que (2022).

Curious about Concerthopper? You can find more music-related articles, interviews, various photo galleries, indie music reviews, our ‘Bars & Bites’ section, our exclusive “She Said, She Said” column, or become a Concerthopper at www.concerthopper.com. Sign up for our monthly newsletter by following this link: The Setlist! Please ‘Like’ our page on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date in 2023, on all music-related events/festivals such as Tour of the Valedores: John Garcia Live at The Masquerade, High on Fire: Live at The Senate (Columbia), Shoot For The Moon Tour: Sierra Ferrell Live at The Eastern, Seasons World Tour 2024: Thirty Seconds to Mars & AFI Live at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, Mr. Bungle: Live at The Tabernacle, Ashes of Leviathan Tour: Mastodon & Lamb of God @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, An Evening with Goose (Night 3) @ The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), Least Anticipated Album Tour: A Day To Remember @ Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B, S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival w/ SLASH, Larkin Poe, ZZ Ward, and Robert Randolph – Live @ The Orion Amphitheater (Huntsville), Doyle & Otep Live at The Ranch (Ft. Myers), Weedeater w/ Telekinetic Yeti & Restless Spirit: Live @ Grantski Records, Blackout Tour Pt. 2: From Ashes to New Live @ Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), Is For Lovers Tour (Fox Summer Stage), We Legalized It 2024: Cypress Hill, The Pharcyde, & Souls of Mischief: Live at Tabernacle, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: Live at The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Godmode Tour: In This Moment Live @ Landmark Theatre (Syracuse), Hawthrone Heights: 20 Years of Tears Tour (Sound @ Coachman Park), Catalyst 20 Years Later - New Found Glory: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, Underoath “They’re Only Chasing Safety” 20th Anniversary Tour: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, and Pallbearer w/ Rwake & The Keening @ The Masquerade (Atlanta) by following us on all social media formats: Concerthopper on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also follow my concert hopping on Facebook and Instagram.

#2024 #concert photography #Concert #concert review #Concerthopper #Review #bluegrass #Jam #jamgrass #alt country #Country #Atlanta #georgia #the eastern

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concerthopperblog · 2 months

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Big Dumb Tour 2024: Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol Live @ The Earl

Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol (RBBP) is a rock/doom wop/groove metal/heavy metal/metal/party metal trio from Austin, Texas. RBBP consists of Leo Lydon (vocals/guitar), Sean St. Germain (drums), and Aaron Metzdorf (bass/backing vocals). RBBP has released three (3) LPs, four (4) singles/EPs, two (2) compilations, and one (1) cassette. Their latest release is entitled Big Dumb Riffs, and I am stoked for this new release to arrive in the mail so I can add it to my RBBP collection. I randomly stumbled upon RBBP one day scrolling through Bandcamp and came across their album, Burger Babes… From Outer Space! Then a few years later, I was surprised that they were announced on the Shaky Knees Music Festival lineup in 2022 among some other wicked bands/artists.

My first time seeing RBBP at Shaky Knees was all that I expected. Loud, heavy, fun, energetic, and full of big dumb riffs. Just the way I like it. This tour stop on the Big Dumb Tour 2024 was also full of meaty big dumb riffs, but this time RBBP gets to play The Earl in the East Atlanta Village on Flat Shoals Rd. One of my favorite smaller venues in Atlanta is The Earl because it is so intimate, and you can get up close and personal with your favorite artist/band while they perform. When RBBP announced the Big Dumb Tour 2024 via their socials, I was ready to get another opportunity to see them perform again but this time with local Atlanta favorites NAW and Pretty Please as opening support at The Earl.

Starting this evening’s festivities was the Atlanta band Pretty Please. Pretty Please is a three (3) piece rock/grunge/noise rock band from Atlanta, GA. Pretty Please was formed as a band in 2012 and consists of Robee Whitmire (guitar/vocals), Brian Martinez (bass), and David Bair (drums). I think the best way to describe Pretty Please is by comparing their earsplitting sound to (the) Melvins, Whores., and very early Nirvana. Also, I think that when you attend a show featuring Pretty Please (or any band on this bill), it is safe to say that you should wear some ear protection because it gets LOUD! That is exactly how we like it. Loud and crunchy. Pretty Please was the perfect choice to start this evening with their deafening and vivacious set of songs from their five (5) LP discography. I cannot wait to check Pretty Please out again at a future show, and you should also. Check out the setlist from Pretty Please below:

· “Vulsella”

· “Lowered Expectations”

· “Wormy”

· “X-Mas box”

· “White Castle”

· “Rock is Dad”

· “It Pays to Complain”

· “Brick Shithead”

You can support and listen to Pretty Please over on their Official Bandcamp page today.

NAW is a four (4) piece noise rock/post-hardcore/noise metal/grunge/rock band from Atlanta, GA. NAW consists of Amanda Sherman (vocals), Jared Singleton (guitar), Kevin Stokes (drums), and Dave Sherman (bass). I did not know what to expect from either NAW or Pretty Please, as I wanted to be surprised with both bands especially since they were Atlanta artists. NAW came onstage to many people in the crowd screaming their names, so I knew something special was about to transpire. Within the first few minutes of their set, I knew why the crowd was going berserk while they were taking the stage. NAW’s raw energy and passion while performing are quite evident and unbridled. Like Pretty Please, I was blown away by NAW’s intense set with some crowd interaction by Amanda sprinkled in for good measure.

The most random part of this evening came from the fact that Dave Sherman recognized me from my stint working at Sam Goody in the Augusta Mall in Augusta, GA. many moons ago. It makes me happy knowing that music can bring people together and over time they can reconnect. Music makes the world a much better and happier place. You can see NAW’s setlist from this evening’s show below:

· “You’re a Coward and This World Will Remain Unchanged Without You”

· “Weed Them and Reap”

· “Meat”

· “I Against I” (Bad Brains cover)

· “Null”

· “Ugly”

· “Cope Atypical”

Head to NAW’s Official Bandcamp page or their linktr.ee/nawatlanta and show them some love!

When it came time for RBBP to take the stage, you could feel the excitement with many folks in the crowd. I overheard some people talking about the previous times seeing them perform live and how they were stoked for this evening. Once Leo had added his setlist to the stage, I was over the moon to see four songs that I hoped they would play made this evening’s setlist. And two of the songs on my list kicked off their unforgettable set. I highly recommend seeing RBBP do their thing if they come to your favorite venue if you like your music thunderous and full of big dumb riffs. Check out this wicked setlist from RBBP from The Earl (04/20/2024) in Atlanta, GA below:

· “I’m the Fucking Man”

· “1-800-Eat Shit”

· “Body Bag”

· “Peanut Butter Snack Sticks”

· “Whip It Around”

· “Blue Collar Man”

· “It’s A Jar”

· “The Worm”

· “Sister Militia”

· “Fly Super Glide”

· “Shoo-in”

· “Baby Man”

· “Gravy”

You can listen to and support RBBP on Bandcamp by following this link. Also, do not forget to preorder the new LP, Big Dumb Riffs, when you visit their Bandcamp page.

Curious about Concerthopper? You can find more music-related articles, interviews, various photo galleries, indie music reviews, our ‘Bars & Bites’ section, our exclusive “She Said, She Said” column, or become a Concerthopper at www.concerthopper.com. Sign up for our monthly newsletter by following this link: The Setlist! Please ‘Like’ our page on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date in 2023, on all music-related events/festivals such as Tour of the Valedores: John Garcia Live at The Masquerade, High on Fire: Live at The Senate (Columbia), Shoot For The Moon Tour: Sierra Ferrell Live at The Eastern, Seasons World Tour 2024: Thirty Seconds to Mars & AFI Live at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, Mr. Bungle: Live at The Tabernacle, Ashes of Leviathan Tour: Mastodon & Lamb of God @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, An Evening with Goose (Night 3) @ The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), Least Anticipated Album Tour: A Day To Remember @ Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B, S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival w/ SLASH, Larkin Poe, ZZ Ward, and Robert Randolph – Live @ The Orion Amphitheater (Huntsville), Doyle & Otep Live at The Ranch (Ft. Myers), Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, & The Kitchen Dwellers: Live at The Eastern (Atlanta), Weedeater w/ Telekinetic Yeti & Restless Spirit: Live @ Grantski Records, Blackout Tour Pt. 2: From Ashes to New Live @ Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), Is For Lovers Tour (Fox Summer Stage), We Legalized It 2024: Cypress Hill, The Pharcyde, & Souls of Mischief: Live at Tabernacle, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: Live at The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Godmode Tour: In This Moment Live @ Landmark Theatre (Syracuse), Hawthrone Heights: 20 Years of Tears Tour (Sound @ Coachman Park), Catalyst 20 Years Later - New Found Glory: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, Underoath “They’re Only Chasing Safety” 20th Anniversary Tour: Live at Buffalo Riverworks, and Pallbearer w/ Rwake & The Keening @ The Masquerade (Atlanta) by following us on all social media formats: Concerthopper on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also follow my concert hopping on Facebook and Instagram.

#2024 #Review #concert photography #Concerthopper #concert review #Concert Photography #photography #The Earl #Atlanta #georgia #Rickshaw Billie's Burger Patrol #music #metal #Doom #Doom metal #indie #alternative metal #Alternative #Alternative rock

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concerthopperblog · 2 months

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Five Must-See Shows from the Initial Americanafest Lineup

The initial lineup of the 2024 Americana Music Festival and Conference has been revealed. With dozens of choices (and remember, that's just the first release), it's difficult to decide what to see. We've gone through the lineup and pulled five artists who we think are must-see sets at Americanafest 2024. So far, that is.

Bronwyn Keith-Hynes When Molly Tuttle put together her bluegrass band Golden Highway, she had her choice of instrumentalists. And with a bluegrass band, no instrument was more important than the fiddle. So when she tapped Bronwyn Keith-Hynes as Golden Highway's fiddler, she was getting a 2-time IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year, as well as an accomplished solo artist. Her latest album I Built a World has an impressive list of guest appearances, from Sam Bush to Dierks Bentley to her boss Molly Tuttle, making this a set ripe for the kind of guest sit-in that makes Americanafest special.

Mike Farris If you're looking for the Americanafest set most likely to have you on your feet dancing, look no further than Mike Farris. The Screaming Cheetah Wheelies frontman and prolific solo artist's mix of blues, Southern gospel, and soul is given a high-energy injection. While he knows his way around a ballad (check out his cover of Mary Gauthier's “Mercy Now”), it's when he cuts loose that his sets become truly special.

John Oates Acoustic Band Anytime a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer graces an Americanafest stage, it's worth the wait in line to see them. Even the largest Americanafest venue is smaller than you'll ever see these stars normally. When the show is booked as “One Night Only,” you can put it in ink. Considering its prominent place (and font size) on the lineup poster, Americanafest knows the level of special they have with John Oates (of Hall & Oates fame) performing a one-off acoustic set. Oates has been a guest at Americanafest before and seems to relish the community so expect him to leave it all on the stage.

Tony Trischka- Earl Jam: A Tribute to Earl Scruggs Anytime you see the word “Tribute” in an Americanafest show, consider it. While you can catch most of the lineup any given year on tour at another time, the tribute shows happen once and never again. And with the level of Americana talent on hand for the festival and awards show, you never know who is going to show up. That's doubly the case when the tribute, to banjo legend Earl Scruggs, is led by Tony Trischka, who has done more to innovate with that instrument than anyone not named Bela Fleck. Scruggs is, rightly, revered among Americana fans so expect both his name and Trischka's connections to deliver a mind-blowing list of guests.

Willie Watson Willie Watson has been on my “must-see” list at Americanafest before and will continue to be so any year he performs. Watson is one of the most thorough chroniclers of roots music history that has ever lived. But his shows aren't dry history lessons. Watson's delivery is earnest and intense, his voice cutting through the silence of a hushed crowd as he holds court with a long-forgotten song from the 19th Century.

Americanafest 2024 is being held September 17-21 in venues across Nashville. Festival passes are on sale now. Stay tuned for more Concert Hopper coverage of Americanafest as future lineup drops happen!

#2024 #preview #festival #Festival Preview #music #Music Festival Preview #Concerthopper #Americana Music #Americanafest #americana #Concert #Country #Nashville

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concerthopperblog · 2 months

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MOVEMENTS: RUCKUS! Tour featuring Tigers Jaw, Webbed Wing, & Paerish PT 2.

In December 2023, Movements announced that the band would embark on Part 2 of the Ruckus! Tour. The tour will be supported by Tigers Jaw, Webbed Wing, and Paerish. Movements released Ruckus! in August 2023. If you enjoy a mix of pop-punk and grunge and love your heart getting mixed into an ocean of emotions, then this album is for you. When I saw this announcement, I was incredibly excited. I have grown to enjoy this band, and when I saw that they would be playing at the Water Street Music Hall, I knew this was a show I had to attend. I spent many nights at this venue enjoying great music in my younger years. As I stepped out of my husband's car, I could feel the excitement in the air and see the anticipation on the faces of fans eagerly waiting to rush into the venue to find the perfect spot. Slowly but surely, the venue began to fill up as the show was about to start. At first, it didn't look like it was going to be a sold-out show. However, as I started taking photos of Paerish, I realized that the venue was filling up much quicker than I had anticipated. I knew that the night was going to be amazing.

Paerish is a French alternative rock band based in Paris, formed in 2013. The band has 3 studio albums Semi Finalists (2016), Fixed It All (2021) and You're In Both Dreams (And You're Scared) (2023). In 2021, the band featured Patrick Miranda from Movements on the song “You & I”. The band is gaining popularity in this scene. The band went to Instagram and shared that they had reached 1 Million streams on Spotify for their new song “House of American Style” released in early 2023. During the show, Paerish caught my attention with their amazing performance. I was surprised to learn that this band had never played in America before. It was a great experience to witness a new band from France playing in America for the first time. They performed a mix of songs including “House Of American Style” and “Still There.” After their set, the band members spent some time at their merch booth. The singer even invited people to come and talk to them, despite their "shitty French accents".

Webbed Wing is a trio from “The City of Brotherly Love” aka Philadelphia, PA. Taylor Madison, Jake Clarke & Mike Paulshock make up Webbed Wing, they only have 2 studio albums Bike Ride Across The Moon & What’s So Fucking Funny? In February of 2023, they surprised their fans with a new EP release called Right After I Smoke This. I thought the performance of these guys was great. I particularly enjoyed watching the drummer get into the groove of the music. However, I feel like their set was a bit short and they could have given more to the fans. On the bright side, the singer, Taylor, was very interactive with the crowd.

Tigers Jaw is a rock band from Scranton, PA that formed back in 2005. The band got their influences from artists such as Fall Out Boy & My Chemical Romance. The band released 3 albums before announcing on Tumblr in 2013 that they were going on a hiatus, it lasted less than a year. The band made a comeback in 2014 releasing a new album called Charmer. Tigers Jaw was signed to Hopeless Records in 2020, they released a song called “Warn Me”, and they also released a song called “Cat’s Cradle” before releasing their latest studio album I Won't Care How You Remember Me (2021). I really enjoyed the performance by Tigers Jaw. The lead singer and guitarist Benjamin Walsh gave it his all, and you could see the passion in his performance. This band has now made it to my list of "Must Listen To" artists. They played around 10-12 songs, including "Never Wanted To," "Hum," and "Plane vs Tank vs Submarine".

Movements is a post-hardcore quartet from Rancho Santa Margarita California. The band consists of Patrick Miranda, Austin Cressey, Spencer York & Ira George, who debuted in 2015. Movements has 1 EP and 3 Studio albums to date, they released their latest album Ruckus! in the summer of 2023. I remember seeing them for the first time back in 2017 when they were on tour with Knuckle Puck, I was unsure if I enjoyed their music upon discovering them. Fast forward to 2018, I saw they were featured in an advertisement for Vans Warped Tour 2018 (check out our coverage from that show here). After hearing their song “Daylily” off their Feel Something album I knew these guys were a band I had to keep in my music rotation. Movement’s lyrics derive from anxiety, depression, heartbreak & tense relationships. In an interview with Jamie Orque; Patrick Miranda (Vocalist) states that their song “Deadly Dull” also off the Feel Something album is written about Alzheimer’s disease. This song hits home for me, when I was younger my great-grandmother had a stroke, couldn’t speak much and after a few years, we believe she was also dealing with dementia. As Movements took the stage, I was ready to take photos and enjoy the rest of the show. The band started strong by playing one of their new songs, "Lead Pipe". Throughout the night, the band had multiple crowd surfers, and the whole room was almost shaking from the excitement of the fans. Movements also played an older song called "Submerge". They played a variety of songs from all of their albums, making the setlist perfect. The band members were grateful and thanked the crowd for coming out to see them and for coming to see the other bands on the bill. Pat, the lead singer, said that he grew up going to Tigers Jaw shows and loved that they got to share the same stage. The night ended with Movements playing their most iconic song, "Daylily".

This show is one for the books, I hope you guys didn’t miss out on this one. I decided to stay until the end of the show and saw the joy on fans' faces as they left. There are only 10 dates left coming to a city near you! If you are a fan of Post-Hardcore music and getting thrown into a whirlwind of emotions check out Movements. If you want more Movements content click here to read our review of Ruckus! Make sure to follow ConcertHopper on our Instagram and Facebook pages! Keep on hopping!

Movements: RUCKUS! Tour 2024

Apr. 19, 2024

Detroit, MI

Saint Andrew's Memorial Episcopal Church

Apr. 20, 2024

Milwaukee, WI

The Rave / Eagles Club

Apr. 22, 2024

Omaha, NE

Slowdown

Apr. 24, 2024

Boulder, CO

Boulder Theater

Apr. 26, 2024

Las Vegas, NV

House Of Blues Las Vegas

Apr. 27, 2024

San Diego, CA

SOMA

Apr. 28, 2024

Riverside, CA

Riverside Municipal Auditorium

May. 12, 2024

Daytona Beach, FL

Welcome To Rockville 2024

May. 17, 2024

Columbus, OH

Sonic Temple Festival 2024

#2024 #concert photography #Concerthopper #metal tours #Review #Concert

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Sessanta: Primus, Puscifer, & A Perfect Circle @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

Maynard James Keenan (MJK) has become a household name in the rock/metal landscape since his arrival as the lead singer in the progressive rock/progressive metal/alt metal/post-metal/art rock band Tool in 1990. Born James Herbert Keenan on April 17, 1964, MJK has evolved from not just being the frontman for the larger-than-life band Tool but also the proud owner of the very successful Caduceus Cellars and vineyard named Merkin Vineyards (2004) located in Jerome, Arizona. Jokingly in a 2006 interview (with MJK is there any other way?), MJK was quoted by IGN.com: “This is a prime spot for vineyards. An untapped resource. But the master plan is to have the Merkin Vineyards Bed and Breakfast set up for when California drops in the ocean. Beachfront property and the New Napa Valley. You got it.” That is most definitely a nod to the song (and album title) “Aenima” from the 1996 release by Tool. Incidentally, the band got the idea of an ‘Arizona Bay’ from the late and great Bill Hick’s epic comedic set Arizona Bay.

But I digress, over the years between Tool albums, MJK has also lent out his singing duties to two other unbelievable and remarkable alternative rock bands: A Perfect Circle and Puscifer (which we will discuss further in a minute). Most recently on Jan. 2024, MJK fulfilled his life-long dream when all his hard work paid off when he received the distinguished rank of black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). For one person, that list of accolades can be daunting for some to try, but not for MJK. No task is too large for his undertaking. Even the task of touring with not one but two of your bands in which you are the lead singer, plus asking your good friends in Primus to join in on the fun. On September 12th, 2023, in celebration of MJK’s 60th birthday on April 17th, 2024, Sessanta was announced via social media in which Primus, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer would join forces to tour twenty-one (21) cities starting April 2nd in Boston, MA. and concluding May 4th in Forest Hills, NY. After getting the opportunity earlier in 2024 to photograph Tool on their tour with Elder, I figured why not get the trifecta of MJK bands this year with the Sessanta tour stop at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta, GA?

It has been five years since their last proper tour, but A Perfect Circle (APC) did not skip a beat performing on stage this evening. APC is an alternative rock/alternative metal/hard rock/art rock band from Los Angeles, CA., and has been active from 1999-2004 * 2010-present. The original lineup included MJK (vocals), Billy Howerdel (lead guitar/keyboards/backing and lead vocals), Troy Van Leeuwen (rhythm guitar), Josh Freese (drums), and Paz Lenchantin (bass/strings/backing vocals/piano). After some lineup changes over the years, APC now consists of MJK (vocals), Billy Howerdel (lead guitar/keyboards/backing and lead vocals), James Iha (rhythm guitar/keyboards), Matt McJunkins (bass/backing vocals), and Josh Freese (drums). For this tour, James Iha could not attend this tour due to previous engagements with his original band, The Smashing Pumpkins. In his place, APC recruited a familiar face in Greg Edwards (Failure) who would take over the duties of playing rhythm guitar. Via Josh’s Instagram page, he announced that for the first time in thirteen (13) years, he would be back behind the drum set with APC for this tour on selected dates before departing after the April 20th show to rejoin the Foo Fighters on tour. Gunnar Olsen (Puscifer) would then handle the remaining tour dates, and maybe Tim “Herb” Alexander (Primus) sprinkled in for good measure. APC has released four (4) LPs since 2000, with Eat the Elephant being the most recent release from 2018.

APC was the brainchild of long-time guitar tech for Nine Inch Nails, The Smashing Pumpkins, Fishbone, and Tool- Billy Howerdel. What started as a friendship between MJK and Billy became much more when the two discussed forming a new band based on Billy’s recorded demos. Fast-forward to the present day, APC has cemented itself in the alternative rock/metal pantheon with four (4) critically acclaimed albums. I was fortunate to catch APC on their first major North American tour on August 23, 2000, at The Tabernacle (Atlanta) on tour with Sunna. Over the years, as their tours became less and less, I cherished the times I had the opportunity to see them perform. And especially when I was able to get backstage for a meet and greet during their February 24th, 2001, tour stop in Fort Mill, S.C. featuring the original lineup save for MJK and Josh Freese, who arrived late to the arena due to the birth of one of his children.

Puscifer is an experimental rock/alternative rock/art rock/electronic rock/post-industrial band from Los Angeles, CA. who formed in 2003. Puscifer consists of MJK (vocals), Carina Round (vocals/guitars/percussion/keyboards), and Mat Mitchell (guitar/bass/keyboards/synthesizers/production). Touring musicians include Greg Edwards (bass) and Gunnar Olsen (drums/programming). Puscifer has released four (4) LPs, six (6) remix LPs, seven (7) live albums on various formats, three (3) EPs, eleven (11) singles, seventeen (17) music videos, and have contributed to twelve (12) compilations over their career. My most recent time seeing Puscifer perform was during their late afternoon Sunday performance at the 2022 edition of the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. Incidentally, Tool also headlined that weekend with a phenomenal late-night Saturday set for the Bonnaroovians in attendance.

Finally, we have the legendary alternative metal/funk metal/experimental rock/progressive rock band Primus from El Sobrante, CA., active from 1984-2000 * 2003-present. Primus consists of the mad genius Les Claypool (lead vocals/bass/double bass), Larry “Ler” LaLonde (guitars/backing vocals), and Tim “Herb” Alexander (drums/backing vocals). Primus has released nine (9) LPs, one (1) live album, five (5) EPs, twenty-two (22) singles, five (5) video albums, and twenty (20) videos. Primus has also contributed to numerous compilations including their hit theme song for the acclaimed animated sitcom South Park.

This evening was unlike any tour which I have attended. Instead of having each band get a full set to perform consecutively, each band would come out and perform a few songs from their discography and then give way for the next band. Each set was split into acts like a play or musical: Act I, Act II, and Act III. A few special moments to acknowledge from this evening; after the completion of the first song, MJK spoke out to the crowd in “Atlanta” hoping to get a roaring cheer from the crowd. To his chagrin, MJK said that that crowd’s responsive cheer sounded more like “Augusta” than “Atlanta”. I found that humorous since I felt he was referring to the crowd’s response as a ‘golf clap’ since the Master’s Golf Tournament took place the same week in Augusta. During Primus' final song of Act II, "Tommy the Cat", MJK came on stage and lent his vocals for this performance. He would take over the lyrics originally recorded by the legendary Tom Waits. I am not going to lie, this was a major highlight for this Concerthopper since this is one of my favorite songs from Primus. Plus, Atlanta native Puddles the Clown appeared on stage to help celebrate MJK’s 60th birthday.

Check out this evening’s set list for Sessanta live at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta, GA:

Act I

A Perfect Circle

· “The Package”

· “Disillusioned”

· “The Contrarian”

Primus

· “Those Damned Blue-Collar Tweekers”

· “Too Many Puppies”

· “Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver”

Puscifer

· “Galileo”

· “Horizons”

· “Indigo Children”

Act II

Primus

· “Jerry Was a Race Car Driver”

· “My Name is Mud”

· “Tommy the Cat”

Puscifer

· “Flippant”

· “Momma Sed”

· “Bullet Train to Iowa”

· “The Underwhelming”

A Perfect Circle

· “The Hollow”

· “So Long, And Thanks For All The Fish”

· “Weak and Powerless”

· “The Outsider”

Act III

Puscifer

· “The Humbling River”

· “The Remedy”

A Perfect Circle

· “The Noose”

· “Judith”

Primus

· “Southbound Pachyderm”

MJK Words

· “Kindred”

· “No Angel”

· “Pablos Hippos”

· “Grand Canyon”

ICYMI: Follow this link to Concerthopper.com to read my review from Tool w/ Elder Live at State Farm Arena (Atlanta) from January 24, 2024. You still have a chance to catch this tour, but you better act fast because many dates have sold out months ago:

April 16 Phoenix, AZ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

April 17 Phoenix, AZ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre SOLD OUT

April 18 San Diego, CA The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park SOLD OUT

April 20 Los Angeles, CA The Hollywood Bowl

April 21 Berkeley, CA Greek Theatre SOLD OUT

April 23 West Valley City, UT Maverik Center

April 25 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre SOLD OUT

April 26 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre SOLD OUT

April 30 Bonner Springs, KS Azura Amphitheater

May 1 Chicago, IL Wintrust Arena

May 2 Clarkston, MI Pine Knob Music Theatre

May 4 Forest Hills, NY Forest Hills Stadium

Curious about Concerthopper? You can find more music-related articles, interviews, various photo galleries, indie music reviews, our ‘Bars & Bites’ section, our exclusive “She Said, She Said” column, or become a Concerthopper at www.concerthopper.com. Sign up for our monthly newsletter by following this link: The Setlist! Please ‘Like’ our page on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date in 2023, on all music-related events/festivals such as High on Fire: Live at The Senate (Columbia), Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol w/ NAW & Pretty Please @ The Earl, Earthless w/ Minami Deutsch at The Earl, Shoot For The Moon Tour: Sierra Ferrell Live at The Eastern, Seasons World Tour 2024: Thirty Seconds to Mars & AFI Live at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, Mr. Bungle: Live at The Tabernacle, Ashes of Leviathan Tour: Mastodon & Lamb of God @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, An Evening with Goose (Night 3) @ The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Deathless Tour: Set It Off w/ Crown the Empire, Caskets, and Death By Choice Live at Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), Least Anticipated Album Tour: A Day To Remember @ Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B, S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival w/ SLASH, Larkin Poe, ZZ Ward, and Robert Randolph – Live @ The Orion Amphitheater (Huntsville), Doyle & Otep Live at The Ranch (Ft. Myers), Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, & The Kitchen Dwellers: Live at The Eastern (Atlanta), Weedeater w/ Telekinetic Yeti & Restless Spirit: Live @ Grantski Records, Blackout Tour Pt. 2: From Ashes to New Live @ Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), RUCKUS! Tour 2024: Movements Live at Water Street Music Hall, We Legalized It 2024: Cypress Hill Live at Tabernacle, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: Live at The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Godmode Tour: In This Moment Live @ Landmark Theatre (Syracuse), Pallbearer w/ Rwake & The Keening @ The Masquerade (Atlanta), and King Dunn Tour: Live at The Masquerade by following us on all social media formats: Concerthopper on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also follow my concert hopping on Facebook and Instagram.

#2024 #review #tour #concert photography #concert #concerthopper #concert review #alternative rock #alternative metal #atlanta #georgia #a perfect circle #primus #pusicfer

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concerthopperblog · 2 months

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Review: Aaron Lee Tasjan- Stellar Evolution

Sometimes an eclectic album will be called “genre-defying.” Stellar Evolution, the new album from Aaron Lee Tasjan out 4/12 on Blue Elan Records, isn't genre-defying. That implies an acknowledgment that genres exist, something Tasjan refuses to do throughout this record.

Stellar Evolution pinballs from synthwave to power pop, classic rock, glam to Americana, and elsewhere, sometimes within the same song. Co-produced by Tasjan and Gregory Lattimer, who teamed up to produce Tasjan's 2021 album Tasjan! Tasjan! Tasjan!, it somehow always makes sense within the context of the song and the album.

The album's standout track “Alien Space Queen” is about as far from standard roots music as it gets. It's a danceable celebration of the outsider, with Tasjan noting the song's subject “ drives an old Trans-Am / in sunset gold / she's trans-femme / a demigirl dream.” Tasjan imagines a day when these joyous weirdos will rule the world and “we would live in peace.”

Another highlight of the album is “The Horror of It All.” With a less celebratory take on non-conformity, Tasjan sets this song in one of the least friendly places for the different; high school. “Whispers in the hallway growing” Tasjan laments as his rumored sexual proclivities are bandied about the classroom. But his protagonist comes out of it, screaming “I've got to be myself / because everyone else / is already taken.” This is the strongest guitar track on Stellar Evolution, reminding listeners why Tasjan was tapped as guitarist for New York Dolls before his solo career. When he rips, he truly rips. Further distancing it from being too serious is the fun music video, with its '80s horror movie VHS look and feel.

Stellar Evolution's other single, “Drugs Took Me” starts as a stoner fable (“dirty feet / long greasy hair / Jesus Christ goes heroin chic”) with Tasjan reciting the lines in his best burnout voice turns darker in the song's second half as he sees himself in the mirror (“white as an Irish spirit/everyone's best invisible friend”). It's somewhat autobiographical, telling Tasjan's journey to sobriety.

Tasjan goes full Tom Petty mode on “I Love America Better Than You.” It's a shot at nationalists who see patriotism as a contest, and exclusive to people who look or think like they do. “Happy Independence,” Tasjan drawls. “I hope you weren't depending / on we're all created equal / to go and live some dream.”

For those looking for ballads, Stellar Evolution has its share. “Dylan Shades” is an introvert's love story. “Roll Your Windows Down” is just about the pure joy of hanging out with people who accept who you are. “Young” is a piano ballad that is beautiful in its simplicity.

Stellar Evolution feels like just that for Aaron Lee Tasjan; an evolution. The courage to let the songs dictate the genre or, as is often the case here, to skip genrefication altogether, comes with experience. Stellar Evolution is the portrait of an artist who comes into his own.

#Aaaron Lee Tasjan #americana #power pop #Concerthopper #2024 #review #album review

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Review: Marcus King- 'Mood Swings'

Up to now, Marcus King has primarily been known as a blues guitarist with a uniquely soulful voice. His guitar heroics have been the anchor of his previous Dan Auerbach (The Black Keys) two albums and have defined the sound fans have come to expect. With Mood Swings, King fans will find a very different sound, one that focuses more fully on his vocals than his fretwork.

Mood Swings has a different label, and producer, with King signing to Rick Rubin's (Johnny Cash, The Avett Brothers) American/Republic label and letting the legendary producer guide his sound into its next phase. The difference is obvious from the outset, the album's title track. After a spoken-word intro that hangs with the final words “hopelessness, terrible”, King launches into one of the album's two primary themes; mental health. Over an understated electric guitar strum and a driving drum beat, King croons “mood swings like a pendulum I can't break through” before “I know it won't make much sense, but in my defense, you're the only one I feel safe around.”

King spends much of the album exploring the crossroads where love and mental health meet. The best example of this is the album's standout track “F*ck My Life Up Again.” “Let you down one last time, so you'd remember that you're mine,” King cries over drum and keys. Later he admits “I don't deserve to live without pain,” over a swell of strings.

Another strong track is “Delilah.” This one hits closest to the blues-rock of King's previous efforts, though tinged with a gospel core. The verses are piano and bass-heavy, with King's vocals slow and soulful. Then that fuzzed-out guitar solo hits and you're thinking “there he is. There's the old Marcus.”

If “Delilah” has a gospel tinge, “Me or Tennessee” is a swan dive into Southern gospel-inspired soul. The song could easily have been an Al Green tune, with a choir and organ as the driving force of the song. Lyrically, it's another exploration of the depths of mental illness and toxic relationships. “You'll never understand how to rid me of all your dreams now,” King and his chorus sing before another searing guitar solo. It's hard to write an uptempo song about such depressing topics, but King manages it with a flourish.

Whether you like Mood Swings will depend almost completely on your opinion of the soul and gospel roots in King's previous, bluesier, efforts. With Rubin's assistance, King has evolved his sound, and matured his songwriting prowess, into something recognizable to any Marcus King fan while avoiding stagnation.

#Marcus King #soul #gospel #mood swings #album review #Concerthopper #2024 #review

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Gearing Up for Goose's Capitol Theatre Run & Summer Tour 2024!

Goose, a jam/psychedelic rock band from Wilton, CT., is getting ready for an eventful year in 2024 that all starts with a highly anticipated four-night run at The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, N.Y. A little over a month after this four-night run, Goose’s Summer Tour 2024 kicks off by headlining the inaugural Solshine Music & Arts Revue at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe, IL. (May 24-25). FYI – Orebolo (featuring Rick, Pete, and Jeffrey of Goose) is also on this stacked lineup. ICYMI: Orebolo and the legendary Sturgill Simpson made some very happy music fans at this year’s Dead Ahead Music Festival in Rivera Cancun, Mexico when they performed “Breakers Roar”, a song from Sturgill’s Grammy Award-winning 2016 album, A Sailor’s Guide to Earth. Seeing this kind of creative collaboration with some of my favorite artists solidifies the reasons why I love music so much. For those who know me personally, anytime that I get to bring up Sturgill Simpson in any shape or form, I am taking that shot 10 out of 10 times. But I digress.

So far, the Summer Tour 2024 will conclude on June 30th at Westville Music Bowl in New Haven, CT. Along the way, Goose will complete some epic multiple-night runs: a two-night run at The Factory in St. Louis, MO., a two-night run at Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre in Greenwood Village, CO., a three-night run at The Fox Theatre in Atlanta, GA., and a two-night run at Thompson’s Point in Portland, ME. Tickets for the Summer Tour 2024 are still on sale with some good seats available at various locations. In addition, one dollar for each ticket sold for the Summer Tour 2024 will be donated to Greenpeace. Sadly, The Capitol Theatre run has long been sold out, but you can still find some tickets for sale through verified resale markets like cashortrade.org.

Goose consists of Rick Mitarotonda (guitar/vocals), Trevor Weeks (bass), Peter Anspach (keyboards/guitar/vocals), Jeff Arevalo (percussion/vocals), and newly added Cotter Ellis (drums). Last year was an extensive year of touring for Goose, although Goose and founding member Ben Atkind (drummer) mutually parted ways after their annual Goosemas celebration in Hampton, VA. After a few months of speculation between the fans as to who would be chosen to sit behind the drum kit, Goose announced the addition of ex-Swimmer drummer Cotter Ellis. And to the fan’s surprise, Goose also released Ted Tapes II on multiple streaming platforms. This jam session would be the first with Cotter on the drums and let me tell you this jam session is something special right here. So, knowing that information, this tour is a DO NOT MISS! Which tour date will you see Goose during the Summer Tour 2024?

So far here are the announced tour dates for Goose in 2024:

APR 7, 2024

The Capitol Theatre

Port Chester, NY

cashortrade

sold out

APR 8, 2024

The Capitol Theatre

Port Chester, NY

cashortrade

sold out

APR 9, 2024

The Capitol Theatre

Port Chester, NY

cashortrade

sold out

APR 10, 2024

The Capitol Theatre

Port Chester, NY

cashortrade

sold out

MAY 24, 2024 - MAY 26, 2024

Solshine: A Music & Arts Reverie

Chillicothe, IL

tickets

JUN 4, 2024

The Factory

St. Louis, Mo

vip

tickets

JUN 5, 2024

The Factory

St. Louis, Mo

vip

tickets

JUN 7, 2024

Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre

Greenwood Village, CO

vip + travel

tickets

JUN 8, 2024

Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre

Greenwood Village, CO

vip + travel

tickets

JUN 10, 2024

Steelhouse

Omaha, NE

vip

tickets

JUN 11, 2024

The Midland Theatre

Kansas City, Mo

vip

tickets

JUN 12, 2024

Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park

Indianapolis, IN

vip

tickets

JUN 14, 2024

Northlands Music & Arts Festival

Swanszey, NH

tickets

JUN 15, 2024

CMAC

Canandaigua, NY

vip

tickets

JUN 16, 2024

Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica

Cleveland, OH

vip

tickets

JUN 18, 2024

Red Hat Amphitheater

Raleigh, NC

vip

tickets

JUN 20, 2024

Fox Theatre

Atlanta, GA

vip + travel

tickets

JUN 21, 2024

Fox Theatre

Atlanta, GA

vip + travel

tickets

JUN 22, 2024

Fox Theatre

Atlanta, GA

vip + travel

cashortrade

JUN 23, 2024

Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre

Charlotte, NC

vip

cashortrade

JUN 25, 2024

Thompson’s Point

Portland, ME

vip + travel

tickets

JUN 26, 2024

Thompson’s Point

Portland, ME

vip + travel

tickets

JUN 28, 2024

Mann Center for the Performing Arts

Philadelphia, PA

vip + travel

tickets

JUN 29, 2024

Forest Hills Stadium

Forest Hills, NY

vip + travel

tickets

JUN 30, 2024

Westville Music Bowl

New Haven, CT

tickets

vip

If you have followed Concerthopper and my blog in the past, then you may have read some of the previous reviews of the band Goose: Goose: Sold Out at The Eastern (Night 1) (2021), Goose: Two Nights at Pullman Hall! (2022), and Spring Tour 2023: Goose Live @ Georgia Theatre (2023). Get your Goose fix at Concerthopper.com!

Curious about Concerthopper? You can find more music-related articles, interviews, various photo galleries, indie music reviews, our ‘Bars & Bites’ section, our exclusive “She Said, She Said” column, or become a Concerthopper at www.concerthopper.com. Sign up for our monthly newsletter by following this link: The Setlist! Please ‘Like’ our page on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date in 2023, on all music-related events/festivals such as High on Fire: Live at The Senate (Columbia), Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol w/ NAW & Pretty Please @ The Earl, SESSANTA: Primus, Puscifer, & A Perfect Circle: Live at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre (Atlanta), Earthless w/ Minami Deutsch at The Earl, Shoot For The Moon Tour: Sierra Ferrell Live at The Eastern, Seasons World Tour 2024: Thirty Seconds to Mars & AFI Live at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, Mr. Bungle: Live at The Tabernacle, Ashes of Leviathan Tour: Mastodon & Lamb of God @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, An Evening with Goose (Night 3) @ The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Deathless Tour: Set It Off w/ Crown the Empire, Caskets, and Death By Choice Live at Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), Least Anticipated Album Tour: A Day To Remember @ Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B, S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival w/ SLASH, Larkin Poe, ZZ Ward, and Robert Randolph – Live @ The Orion Amphitheater (Huntsville), Doyle & Otep Live at The Ranch (Ft. Myers), Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, & The Kitchen Dwellers: Live at The Eastern (Atlanta), Weedeater w/ Telekinetic Yeti & Restless Spirit: Live @ Grantski Records, Blackout Tour Pt. 2: From Ashes to New Live @ Water Street Music Hall (Rochester), RUCKUS! Tour 2024: Movements Live at Water Street Music Hall, We Legalized It 2024: Cypress Hill Live at Tabernacle, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard: Live at The Fox Theatre (Atlanta), The Godmode Tour: In This Moment Live @ Landmark Theatre (Syracuse), Pallbearer w/ Rwake & The Keening @ The Masquerade (Atlanta), and King Dunn Tour: Live at The Masquerade by following us on all social media formats: Concerthopper on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can also follow my concert hopping on Facebook and Instagram.

#2024 #goose #Concerthopper #Concert #Concert Preview #concert photography #photography #indie #Rock 'n' Roll #Jam #Indie Rock #preview #Atlanta #the fox theatre #georgia

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concerthopperblog · 2 months

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The Deathless Tour Featuring Set It Off, Crown The Empire, Caskets & DeathbyRomy

Set It Off has started The Deathless Tour with Crown The Empire, Caskets, and Deathbyromy. The tour includes 32 dates and began on March 13th. The group has also released two new singles titled "Parasite" and "Evil People" to get fans excited for what's next from the rock group. As the band was gearing up to go on tour, they released a third single titled "Fake Ass Friends" to further excite their fans. Stepping into the venue, a wave of excitement washed over me. It had been years since I had last been to Water Street Music Hall, back in my teenage years watching my friends perform with their bands. The line extended down the block, showing the anticipation and enthusiasm of the fans. The atmosphere was electric, evident in the excited faces of those entering the venue. Seeing the resurgence of this iconic place gives me hope for the music scene in Rochester, where opportunities to see live bands can limited.

Romy Flores, known by her stage name DeathbyRomy, is a talented singer-songwriter from the United States. She was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, and started pursuing music professionally at the young age of 15. In 2019, Flores signed a contract with Capitol Records, a UMG company, for her upcoming project. Her debut single, "Problems," was released on October 4th, and it quickly went viral on TikTok, becoming her breakthrough hit. It has become her most-streamed song on platforms such as Spotify and YouTube. Flores's music explores themes of mental health struggles, expressed through her goth clothing style, makeup & songwriting. The theme of the interplay between life and death in Flores's music is influenced by her multicultural background, especially Mexican traditions, and beliefs, such as the Day Of The Dead. Romy & Team Dead, know how to perform, Romy Flores, the lead vocalist, possesses a truly mesmerizing voice. During one of their electrifying performances, Jayden Hammer, the incredible guitarist, surprised everyone by playing flawlessly and adding a unique touch by licking her guitar. DeathbyRomy, being the amazing artist she is, made sure their outfits were perfectly coordinated for their set. I must admit, before tonight, I hadn't had the pleasure of listening to their music, but I couldn't help myself from singing along to one of their catchy new songs, "2, 4, 6, 8,” which was also a live debut of this song. If you ever get an opportunity to see these talented individuals on tour, I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

There's a band called Caskets, and they are crushing it in the music scene. They're from Leeds and have created their brand of alternative, post-hardcore-inspired Metal that is nothing short of electrifying. If you're looking for a band that will get your adrenaline pumping and your heart racing, look no further than Caskets. Trust me, you won't be disappointed! Get ready to have your mind blown! Well, some fans did end up being disappointed with this band. They could not make a bunch of dates on the tour due to an issue with their visas. The band posted a statement and updates on their Instagram regarding the situation (Click Here to read the statement) If you are going to any of the tour dates listed below with a * Caskets will be there!

Crown The Empire is a metalcore band hailing from Dallas, Texas. They've been around since 2010 and are made up of some seriously talented musicians - Andrew "Andy Leo" Rockhold on vocals, Brandon Hoover on guitar, Hayden Tree on bass, and Jeeves Avalos on drums. I recently discovered that they are signed to Rise Records and have released five studio albums. Their latest album, Dogma, dropped on April 28, 2023. Pretty cool, huh? I have been a fan of the band Crown The Empire for some time now. I have been listening to their music since they released their album The Fallout in 2012. Recently, I found myself listening to their album Sudden Sky, released in 2019, and singing along to their song "BLURRY (Out Of Place)" quite often because the lyrics are very catchy. I had the opportunity to see them perform live at the Vans Warped Tour some years back. Their amazing stage presence completely blew me away and I love how they interacted with the crowd. In my opinion, Crown The Empire is one of the best live acts out there, and worth checking out. Before Crown The Empire even stepped foot on stage, the fans & I were ready for them to perform. We were all eagerly awaiting their performance. The band treated us to a mix of their latest hits like “BLURRY (Out Of Place) and beloved classics such as “The Fallout”, but before diving into their setlist, they decided to pull a playful prank on the audience and Rick rolled everyone. It was a hilarious start to the show. As the first notes of "Dogma" filled the venue, Andy Leo, the lead vocalist, unleashed an incredible amount of energy. He passionately belted out the lyrics to each song, his voice echoing through the air, while simultaneously leaping and bounding across the stage, igniting an even greater level of excitement among the fans.

Set It Off is a rock trio that hails from Tampa, Florida, and was formed in 2008 by singer Cody Carson. Carson began the band's career on YouTube and quickly gained a large following. The band released a few EPs, including Calm Before The Storm and Baby, You Don't Tripajaharda, before signing with Equal Vision Records. A few years after signing to Equal Vision Records, the band switched to Fearless Records in 2019. However, Set It Off ultimately decided to break the trend of being tied to a label and announced in 2023 that they had gone independent. The performance by Set It Off was fantastic, I was blown away by the way they had the stage set up, especially with Maxx Danziger (drums) positioned on a riser that gave the illusion of him being inside the "monster" featured on the tour poster. It was a visually stunning setup that added a whole new dimension to their performance. Throughout the night, Set It Off played a total of 18 songs, ending the show on a high note. The addition of Romy Flores to perform "Partners In Crime" was a pleasant surprise, adding an extra layer of excitement to the performance. And who could forget Cody's daring move of crowd-surfing on an air mattress during "Ancient History" - a moment that truly showcased their energy and connection with the audience. One of the things that sets Set It Off apart is their incredible crowd interaction and stage presence. It's clear that they genuinely enjoy performing and engaging with their fans, creating a memorable experience for everyone in the audience. The moment when Cody and Maxx switched spots towards the end of the set was a brilliant move, showcasing their versatility and talent as musicians.

Keep an eye out for their upcoming live performance! You wouldn't want to miss this one-of-a-kind experience. Luckily, there are still plenty of shows remaining and the tour will be hitting a city near you soon. Trust us, it's a show you won't want to miss! To stay in the loop, make sure to follow Concert Hopper’s Instagram and Facebook pages for all the latest updates. Happy hopping!

Sun Mar 31 – Detroit, MI – St Andrew’s Hall*

Mon Apr 01 – Chicago, IL – House of Blues*

Wed Apr 03 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore Minneapolis*

Fri Apr 05 – St. Louis, MO – The Pageant*

Sat Apr 06 – Kansas City, MO – The Truman*

Sun Apr 07 – Denver, CO – Summit*

Tue Apr 09 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot*

Wed Apr 10 – Garden City, ID – Revolution Concert House and Event Center*

Mon Apr 13 – Spokane, WA – Knitting Factory*

Sun Apr 14 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom*

Tue Apr 16 – Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom*

Thu Apr 18 – Sacramento, CA – Ace of Spades*

Fri Apr 19 – Riverside, CA – Riverside Municipal Auditorium*

Mon Apr 22 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren*

Tue Apr 23 – Las Vegas, NV – House of Blues*

Thu Apr 25 – Dallas, TX – House of Blues*

Fri Apr 26 – Austin, TX – Emo’s*

Sat Apr 27 – Houston, TX – House of Blues*

Mon Apr 29 – Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl*

Sun Apr 30 – Columbus, OH – The Bluestone*

#2024 #Review #concert photography #Concert #concert review #Concerthopper #metal #metal tours #photography #music #new york

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concerthopperblog · 3 months

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Life Is But A Dream Tour PT 3: Avenged Sevenfold, Poppy & Sullivan King

Avenged Sevenfold, also known as A7X, announced in March 2023 that they would be embarking on a tour to promote their new album titled "Life Is But A Dream". The album was released in June of the same year. During the first two legs of the tour, A7X was joined by other popular bands such as Alexisonfire, Falling In Reverse, and Kim Dracula. A7X has recently announced its third leg of the Life Is But A Dream Tour with the support of Poppy & Sullivan King. I was thrilled to learn that they were starting the tour in Buffalo, NY. I have been a fan of their music since I was just 12 years old, and the thought of seeing them live and even taking photos of them would have made my younger self scream with joy. As I was walking towards the venue, I noticed that a long line had already formed down the block. The excitement and anticipation of the fans were palpable as they eagerly awaited the upcoming A7X performance. By the time I entered and prepared to take photos, fans were rushing inside to find their seats.

Keaton Prescott, who goes by the stage name Sullivan King, is a talented DJ and multi-instrumentalist. His unique music style combines Electronic Dance Music (EDM) and Metal, attracting fans from both genres to come together and enjoy his music. Sullivan King has released many singles, collaborating with various artists such as Papa Roach, Riot Ten, Kayzo, and others. Sullivan King made a grand entrance to the stage with a lantern on fire and immediately caught the audience's attention. As a DJ, he had an impressive amount of energy, which was unexpected. Although he mostly stayed behind the DJ booth, he occasionally came out. He played the guitar while performing his songs such as "Codename: Reckless", "Blame", and EDM mixes featuring songs from Rob Zombie, Linkin Park, and A Day To Remember. The light show during the bass drops was superb, with laser lights flashing on and off. At some points during the performance, pyrotechnics were even used, adding to the overall spectacular experience.

Moriah Rose Pereira, who goes by the stage name Poppy, hails from Boston, Massachusetts. Initially, Poppy gained popularity for her YouTube videos that parodied modern and internet culture with an android-like persona. In 2014, she ventured into the music industry with her debut pop album titled Bubble Bath. In an interview with DJ Niko from AMP Radio, Poppy revealed that she had originally aspired to become a Rockette. However, after dancing for 11 years, she decided to pursue a music career. Over the years, Poppy has released five studio albums, which have evolved from being pop-oriented to incorporating nu-metal and heavy-metal elements. Her latest album earned her a nomination for a Grammy in the Best Metal Performance category in 2021. Unfortunately, due to the rules, we were unable to capture photos of Poppy's set. When Poppy came out on stage, many of her fans screamed in excitement, eager to see what she was going to perform for us. Poppy's music is a unique blend of pop and metal, which was evident in her set. However, I was a little disappointed with her performance, as I wished she had been more interactive with the crowd and had more energy behind the performance, given that she enjoys dancing as well. During her set, the musician performed a total of 12 songs. She started with "BLOODMONEY," which got her fans extremely excited for the rest of the show. Additionally, she sang some tracks from her latest album, including her latest single "V.A.N," which is a collaboration with Bad Omens.

Avenged Sevenfold is an iconic heavy metal band from Huntington Beach, California. They made their debut in 1999 and have since released 8 studio albums, each marking the evolution of the band. The current lineup includes M. Shadows as the vocalist, Zacky Vengeance and Synyster Gates as guitarists, Johnny Christ as the bassist, and Brooks Wackerman as the drummer. Recently, A7X allowed their fans to listen to their new album, Life Is But A Dream, a few weeks before its scheduled release day in a 360 immersive album experience. This was showcased at Las Vegas' Area15 for a select few dates in May. According to A7X's Instagram, the album is meant to be listened to in its entirety from start to finish. The fans were already chanting "SEVENFOLD, SEVENFOLD, SEVENFOLD" before A7X even stepped on stage. When the band finally came out, the crowd went wild. A7X didn't mess around with the setlist for this tour - they played songs they hadn't performed in years, such as "Blinded In Chains" and "Save Me." They also debuted a new song called "Roman Sky" for the first time on this tour. At one point during the show, a woman was handing out stars with a note attached that said "Hold over your phone flashlight during Cosmic when it slows down after the solo." This was done in an attempt to create a galaxy effect in the crowd. A7X left the stage after "ending" their show but returned to play "Cosmic," another live debut.

Have you missed the first two legs of this tour? Don't worry, there are plenty of dates left and the show is coming to a city near you! This is a must-see show that you don't want to miss. Be sure to follow ConcertHopper on our Instagram and Facebook pages for updates. Keep on hopping!

3.13.24 • Heritage Bank Center Cincinnati, OH

3.15.24 • Wells Fargo Arena Des Moines, IA

3.16.24 • Pinnacle Bank Arena Lincoln, NE

3.18.24 • Vibrant Arena at The MARK Moline, IL

3.19.24 • Gainbridge Fieldhouse Indianapolis, IN

3.21.24 • Mohegan Sun Arena Uncasville, CT

3.23.24 • SNHU Arena Manchester, NH

3.25.24 • PPG Paints Arena Pittsburgh, PA

3.26.24 • Nationwide Arena Columbus, OH

3.28.24 • Thompson-Boling Arena Knoxville, TN

3.29.24 • PNC Arena Raleigh, NC

3.31.24 • Prudential Center Newark, NJ

#AX7 #avenged sevenfold #2024 #Review #Concert #concert review #Concerthopper #concert photography #photography #new york #alternative metal #metal #metal tours #metalcore

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concerthopperblog · 3 months

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Review: MOVEMENTS - RUCKUS!

Movements’ is a post-hardcore band from Rancho Santa Margarita, California, comprising Patrick Miranda as the lead vocalist, Austin Cressey as the bassist, Spencer York as the drummer, and Ira George as the guitarist. They have been playing together since 2015 and have one EP and three studio albums currently streaming, along with several fun singles. The band's last album, No Good Left To Give, was released in 2020. Leading up to the release of their upcoming album Ruckus! in 2023, Movements released two new standalone singles the year before: "Barbed Wire Body" and "Cherry Thrill."

Movements' latest album, Feel Something, differs from their previous releases. The album is emotionally charged, with tracks like "Fever Dream" and "Deadly Dull" that tug at your heartstrings. Even the song "Nineteen" from their previous album, Outgrown Things, resonates with me. It speaks to the high expectations placed on young people as they grow up, with poignant lyrics like, "I know that happiness is stability, but stability is not a desk job, and I refuse to sacrifice my aspirations for an income and security."

Movements' lyrics often delve into themes of depression, anxiety, loss, and other struggles that the band members have experienced. However, their latest release, Ruckus!, takes a more upbeat approach, with tracks that evoke a sense of optimism and hope.

The album kicks off with the track "You're One Of Us Now". The guitar riff at the beginning of the song is captivating, and Pat Miranda's invitation to "take a seat" and "gather 'round" creates a sense of urgency and importance. The chorus, which goes "I gave my mind and gave my health, It looks like Heaven, feels like Hell, You chewed me up until you finally broke me down", speaks to the deeper meaning of the song. The band puts their heart and soul into the instrumentals, and the lyrics are incredibly catchy. I can't help but nod my head to the slap of the bass in "Killing Time", and the chorus "No one can love me like you do" sticks with me long after the song has ended. The album oscillates between themes of hopelessness and loyalty, making for a compelling listen overall.

"Lead Pipe" is a track from this album that stands out as being a little more intense than the others. It's followed by "Heaven Sent," another pop ballad that is more pleasant to listen to. I feel like this song deviates a bit from Movements' typical style, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's upbeat and enjoyable, and I appreciate that it offers something different from the usually melancholy songs they play. What I like most about "Heaven Sent" is that it tells a new story of being in love, something we haven't heard from Movements before.

"Tightrope" is the softest and saddest song on the album. Although the band is moving towards a more positive note, this song still maintains the band's tradition of creating melancholic music. It's a pop ballad that portrays vulnerability, self-doubt, and the pressure of meeting others' expectations.

“I Hope You Choke” is another favorite of this album. The guitar has a punchy and clear sound, the vocals are reminiscent of the previous albums, and the lyrics are on point. However, I think this song has the potential to be even better with a scream section, similar to the one in "Fail You". It has a tremendous amount of energy, but it is missing a strong and memorable ending. Nonetheless, it is still an exceptional song.

“A.M.P.” is a music track that is characterized by some funky and danceable grooves. This album saw the continuation of the style introduced in "Cherry Thrill," which is similar to both "A.M.P." and "Killing Time." The bass is emphasized in the former, while the latter showcases crisp guitar chords. This track has some of the most intriguing lyrics that evoke mixed emotions of confusion, enchantment, and annoyance. Patrick, the singer, summarizes these feelings by singing the line "You wear attention like it's perfume" & “Nobody knows you but they want to, You know they want you.”

The album ends with two tracks: "Dance With Death" and "Coeur D'Alene”. "Dance With Death" is great, but the guitars sometimes overpower the vocals. The lyrics are impactful and remind me of the heavy topics covered in earlier releases. Although the guitar sounds fantastic, I wish the vocals were more audible during the chorus to help me connect better with the song. "Coeur D'Alene" is the final song on the album. While I enjoyed it, I think Movements could have used a punchier ending to Ruckus!

However, "Coeur D'Alene" does complement the previous track "Tightrope" nicely. The lyrics tell the story of spending time with a loved one and making a vow to stay by their side. It feels like a continuation of the slow ballad we saw in previous albums like “Losing Fight” on Outgrown Things.

Movements’ is a band that has gradually climbed up my list of top five must-listen artists. Circle back in April to find out if we managed to catch their performance while they were in town!

#2024 #album review #review #concerthopper #new music #music #metal

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