Country music has a long loyal history of fans who love to step into their cowboy boots, put on their cowboy hats, and boogie down at the local country club. It also has a very storied history with being the butt of the joke in the music industry. But every now and then we have a cross over artist that is able to bridge the gap between country music, and the rest of the music loving world. The latest man to achieve this goes by the name Jelly Roll. Not only has he been paving the way for his own singles and albums, but he has been invited to collaborate with musicians who don’t do country music such as Eminem, Machine Gun Kelly, Ronnie Radke, Lil Wayne, and many more. He has just ventured onto his latest tour dubbed the Beautifully Broken Tour, and this show sold out at the Honda Center with support from Warren Zeiders and Alexandra Kay. Street teams were outside the venue selling cowboy hats for anyone who forgot theirs, and the fans lined up early to get boot scootin’ boogie on.
Opening the night was Alexandra Kay. Alexandra was very excited to be performing on this tour as she mentioned she is still an unsigned independent artist. And in the music world, it can be nearly impossible for unsigned independent artists to catch a break like this to be on a national arena tour. So, it made her even more excited to get this opportunity to perform for the fans of Anaheim. The stage had two catwalks on the left and right side of the arena. Alexandra made it a point to interact with her audience as much as possible. Constantly walking down both sides of the catwalk to sing with her loving fans. Multiple times even stealing a phone to record herself singing with that fan. Sadly I could not get her setlist for the songs she played, but I would highly recommend looking up her top 10 songs on Spotify as each one will get you dancing in your seat.
Up next was a country artist from Hershey, PA known as Warren Zeiders. Warren hit the stage with some swagger and charisma like you’d expect from Usher, and the ladies in the crowd cheered for him just the same. Warren planned to step up the energy even more for the Honda Center, and during his first song “Take it to the Grave” huge canons of pyro blasted off across the front of the stage. Most people might be taken back a bit by this, but Warren embraced the heat standing close to the pyro blasts, locking eyes with every lady in the front row. Giving off some serious Glen Powell from Twisters energy. As well, Warren was not afraid to get right up close and personal with the fans. Often walking down the catwalks to let more people truly see this star on stage. Warren Zeiders kept up this highly charismatic performance for songs like “Intoxicated,” “Betrayal,” “Best I’ve Ever Had,” “Weeping Willow,” “Heartbreaker,” “Relapse,” “Sin So Sweet,” “Pretty Little Poison,” and ending with “Ride the Lightning.” I don’t know if country music stars have the “bad boy musician” archetype in their genre, but I feel Warren Zeiders exemplifies this characteristic.
When it was finally time for Jelly Roll to take the stage, he did something more unique than I probably have ever seen from other artists to start the show. Instead of walking onto the main stage, there was a second side stage set up in the middle of the Honda Center. Jelly Roll took a stroll through the crowd, hand in hand with his wife Alyssa “Bunny XO” DeFord, greeting and interacting with his fans. He kissed his loving wife before ascending to this side stage to perform the song “I Am Not Okay.” But what truly made this moment special was that Jelly Roll performed under a burning house apparatus. The sight of this was more unique than I can imagine any other country artist doing, or even modern day pop artist. As the song concluded, Jelly took his stroll through the other side of the arena, greeting the rest of his fans as he made his way back to the main stage.
Once on the main stage, Jelly Roll was flanked by his entire band who he would constantly embrace. Though Jelly is technically a solo artist, he continues to show love and support to his band during each song. Frequently playing with his guitarist, or dancing next to his drummer and keyboardist. Jelly Roll kept up this love for songs like “Halfway to Hell,” “Get By,” “Son of a Sinner,” “Lonely Road,” “Friends in Low Places/Feel Like a Woman,” “Creature,” “Same Asshole,” “Fall in the Fall,” “Wild Ones,” “She,” “Liar,” “Bottle and Mary Jane,” “Need a Favor,” and “Smoking Section.” During one of the songs, Jelly Roll performed standing next to a flaming grand piano as his keyboardist played it. For his final song “Save Me,” Jelly once again took to the side stage and set the house apparatus a blaze one more time. When the song flowed into its outro, the flaming house was extinguished by rainfall, as Jelly Roll was bathed in the cleansing waters of the rain. He took a couple more minutes to wave and connect with the fans, who desired more, before leaving the stage and walking to the back.
Walking out of the Honda Center, I can’t say that I am a country fan still, but I can say I am a Jelly Roll fan. This artist has been able to cross multiple genres and appeal to the masses. Anaheim sold out the venue to show their love to this man, and I can now truly understand why he is so beloved. The passion and heart that he performs with is undeniable. But it’s his eagerness to show his love back to his fans by greeting them directly and giving us an entertaining show that stands out from the rest. Jelly Roll has shows running till the end of the year, and even if you hate country music, I can guarantee this man will turn you on to his music at the very least. Don’t sit on Jelly Roll just because he plays country. Take a chance and go to one of his upcoming shows. I know you won’t be disappointed.
Poe The Passenger and Satellite Citi’s co-headlining show at The Roxy was a night brimming with community and energy. Supported by Love Ghost and Fencer —two bands that know how to put on a show—the night was unforgettable. Satellite Citi celebrated both their comic book and EP release, while Poe The Passenger marked their album launch. Each band brought a unique sound to the table, ensuring there was something for everyone. The evening was hosted by the talented Noelle Sucks (don’t let the name fool you—she’s awesome), who introduced each band with enthusiasm.
First up was Fencer, the manic rock trio from Los Angeles, known for their signature blue theme. They’ve managed to make lighting a stage with blue feel exciting and fresh. Their sound was so powerful you could hear the vocals clearly even from outside the venue. I’ve photographed Fencer multiple times, and I have to say, this was one of their best performances yet—they just keep getting better. Their stage presence is electric; they know how to engage with each other, ensuring there's never a dull moment. Lead singer Field’s witty banter only added to the excitement.
Fencer’s setlist included She Burns Trees, unreleased tracks, "Couch", "Buena", "Velvet Jetski", and their iconic closer, "Junebug". They also performed "SUV", which is dropping this month—if you're tired of life’s routine, this is your song. During "Couch", a mosh pit erupted, and what made it more fun? Blue dinosaurs joined in when the lyrics referencing them were sung. Field even jumped down to join the pit during a song! The blend of drums and instruments in "Velvet Jetski" has a beat that sticks with you long after the show. Fencer’s final jump during "Junebug" sealed their performance as a night to remember. If you're looking for a band that’s cool, humorous, and full of energy—Fencer is the one.
Next up, Love Ghost took the stage, and their name truly fits—they deliver hauntingly beautiful music. The lead singer’s style was sharp, and his confidence shone through as he got up close and personal with the crowd. Their setlist featured songs like "Fade Away", "Pulp", "Spirit Box", "Left on Read", "Just Another Sunday", "Zombie", "Angelic", "Payback", "Nightshade", "Cocaine", "Big Dog", and "Closure". Jazz made her stage debut during "Just Another Sunday", her smile lighting up the room. Despite it being her first time, she captivated the crowd with her energy.
Love Ghost is a band that knows how to look cool on stage—everyone has amazing hair, which makes them shine in photos. Tim Skold’s guest appearance during "Payback" was a highlight; he blended seamlessly with the band’s sound. "Angelic" is the kind of track that gives you chills—if you're a fan of Nine Inch Nails' "Hurt", you’ll love this. Love Ghost’s music is perfect for anyone who enjoys the eerie, cinematic feel of horror soundtracks.
Headlining the night was space-themed hard rock band Satellite Citi. After Noelle’s introduction, they took the stage with their mysterious spacewalkers—anonymous members dressed as black-clad astronauts, which tie into the band’s comic book lore. Their lead singer impressively doubles as a drummer, which is a rare and captivating sight. It was heartwarming to see little kids in the audience enjoying the set, especially during songs like "Spacewalker", "Evil Eyes" (out on 9/13), "Black Magic", "Trouble Flower", "Anxious Hearts", "As It Was", "Misery", "Dopamine" (unreleased), "Triggers" (unreleased), and "Reaper".
Their performance felt like a mix of Star Wars with a Midwestern twist. A special moment came when one of the spacewalkers formed a heart with their hands for the audience. The vocalist stepped away from the drums for part of the set, allowing her to showcase her stage presence alongside the guitarists. The set even featured a saxophone at times, adding a unique flair. Finnegan from Love Ghost joined them for a song, and seeing him fist-bump the kids in the front row was a touching moment. Satellite Citi showed their appreciation by having the spacewalkers throw shirts into the crowd. The audience was fully engaged, and it was clear this is a band you don’t want to miss.
Closing out the night was Poe The Passenger—not Edgar Allan Poe, though their name is inspired by him. Poe The Passenger is all about fostering a happy, safe community, and you can feel it from the moment they take the stage. Lead singer Jeff Pridgen’s infectious smile kept the mood light and joyful throughout the set. There was even a brief and wholesome moment between Jeff and Field (it was a bit of a playful roast), ending in a hug.
If you like Imagine Dragons or Linkin Park, Poe The Passenger’s sound is right up your alley. Their setlist included tracks like "Burn", "Hologram", "Doom N Gloom", "Endless Love", "Half Alive", "Damned N Beautiful", "Kerosene", "Heart Shaped Box", "Lose Control", and "Sweet Talk". The song "Endless Love" especially reminds me of Imagine Dragons’ Arcane-era music. During the performance, Jeff frequently engaged with the crowd, encouraging them to raise their hands and immerse themselves in the moment.
The band’s encore with "Sweet Talk" was the perfect finale. "Hologram" had that intense, cinematic vibe, like the soundtrack to an epic action scene, while "Damned N Beautiful" painted a vivid, emotional picture. Poe The Passenger closed out the night on an undeniable high.
If you missed this show, I’m genuinely sorry for your loss. The diversity between all the bands and their infectious energy made this a night to remember. Everyone on stage looked thrilled to be there, and the night was full of smiles. Do yourself a favor and check out all these bands—you won’t regret it.
Poised to embark on their 40th Anniversary Tour, legendary Christian metal band Stryper is about to release their 12th studio album When We Were Kings. I’m pleased to report it’s the band’s best work in many years. As a fan since “Soldiers Under Command” first rang through my young ears back in 1984, I’m very proud to see the band continue to actively produce quality albums and successfully tour. The current band lineup includes three original members: Michael Sweet on lead vocals and guitar, brother Robert Sweet on drums, and Oz Fox on vocals and guitar. Perry Richardson has provided bass and backing vocal duties since 2017.
The sonic production on When We Were Kings effectively highlights the classic Stryper sound fans expect- Michael Sweet’s soaring passionate vocals, booming backing harmonies, pounding drums and shredding guitars. This album has something for everybody, it will excite fans preferring the harder metal side of Stryper, but several tracks will please those preferring the gentler more pop rock offerings. It’s probably no coincidence that the first two singles represent the band’s different musical gears; "Love’s Symphony" is a classic meets modern rock track while "Grateful" is a melodic pop rock track with Stryper’s iconic inspiring and positive lyrical messages:
I'm so Grateful, I built on solid ground
For every high & every low, And for the lost and found
Though the stormy skies, Will bring the pouring rain
I'll always see the victory, And my heart will remain
Grateful
Lead singer, guitarist and primary songwriter Michael Sweet says this about “Loves Symphony”:
"We’re always trying to merge the past with the present. Trying to incorporate the classic sound that older fans miss with the modern sound that newer fans hope for. “Love's Symphony' is a great combination of both. It not only represents who we were but also who we are. We really are excited about this one and we hope you all are too."
Because I prefer the harder rocking side of Stryper, my favorite song is “End of Days”, a face-paced metal shredder that kicks off the album. I’m going to bet this rocking track will be the live show opener on their upcoming tour - it would be perfect! Another strong tune is “Unforgiveable”, a crunchy metal groove (that conjures up the spirit of Motley Crüe’s “Shout at the Devil”) coupled with another great melodic chorus. “Betrayed By Love” is a solid power ballad that showcases Michael Sweet’s powerful rock voice and the band’s patented booming backing vocal harmonies. The album’s solid track list continues with the kick-ass “Trinity”, another intense up-tempo hard rocker, passionate chorus and even a tasty sprinkle of a Rush style Moog synthesizer adding some musical texture. The title track is another memorable tune - a great classic metal riff and, surprise...a great melodic uplifting chorus!
The new album When We Were Kings, to be released September 13th, is locked and loaded to please both longtime Stryper fans and fans of hard rock metal in general. The quality and depth of the new songs will energize and boost the band’s upcoming 40th Anniversary Tour which kicks of September 11th in Tennessee. 40 years after the band’s triumphant debut, it’s simply amazing that the band is still going strong. Be sure to check out the new album and catch them on tour this Fall!
Be well and keep rockin!
Greg Vitalich
Widely regarded as one of the best cover bands off all-time, the popular punk rockers Me First and the Gimme Gimmes brought their live show to Observatory North Park in San Diego last week for night of non-stop entertainment. If you haven’t heard of Me First and the Gimme Gimmes (MFGG), they specialize in punk style covers from a wide range of well-known songs. Their two most popular covers are probably the up-tempo anthems “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver and Judy Garland’s “Over the Rainbow”. Whatever song it is, you’ll quickly recognize it and be smiling singing along with the band.
Formed in San Francisco in 1995, MFGG is led by the charismatic and flamboyant lead singer Spike Slawson. Slawson’s high-energy, humorous and engaging live performances have helped the group develop a devoted fan base and pack venues full of music fans of all ages - this night being no exception. Slawson and guitarist Joey Cape are the only original members of the band, with a rotating list of credible players performing throughout the years. Currently on bass is CJ Ramone (known for a stint in the Ramones), Andrew Pinching on drums, and John Reis on guitar.
Always wanting to keep audiences on their toes, the show opened with Slawson taking the stage by himself to deliver an energetic version of “Oh Lonesome Me” (Don Gibson) while ripping it on the ukelele. After wild applause from the eager crowd, the full band came out in matching outfits - uniform shiny black pants, grey shirts, sunglasses and black ties. Drummer Pinching slapped a four-count with the drumsticks and the band cranked into high gear with Dolly Parton’s country smash hit “Jolene”. Next was a frenzied punk version of Paula Abdul’s “Straight Up”, followed by “Love Will Keep Us Together” by Neil Sedaka - a rendition from MFGG’s latest album released in June, Blow it…at Madison’s Quinceanera.
MFGG wins over crowds by cleverly injecting familiar songs with a unique punk spin while delivering an infectious live show that is loud, carefree, irreverent, and humorous. It’s non-stop fun as we all enjoyed memorable renditions such as Culture Club’s “Karma Chameleon”, The Beatles “All My Loving”, John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads”, ABBA’s “Dancing Queen”, Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive”, Elton John’s “Rocket Man”, and the grand finale, Boyz II Men’s “End of the Road. MFGG effectively injected punk freshness into timeless classics that gave the audience a show that won’t forget and reasons to smile all the home.
Be well and keep rockin’ -
Greg Vitalich
What is the earliest memory most of us have when it comes to music. I would assume that it is our parents playing their favorite songs while driving us to daycare, maybe blasting the radio while cleaning the house, or watching music videos on MTV when that was still a thing. These were always special moments for me when riding with my dad in his car or playing around the house with my mom in control of the radio. It introduced me to some of my earliest favorite bands that would now be considered “Classic Rock” with the likes of AC/DC, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Steppenwolf, and many more. A few bands that always stood out above the rest were Def Leppard and Journey, as these two bands have always held a special place in mine and so many people’s hearts. So, when a triple co-headlining tour with Def Leppard, Journey, and the incredible Steve Miller Band was announced, I had to be at this show no matter where it took place. After three hours in bumper to bumper traffic, I would find myself in San Diego at Petco Park ready to experience a line up of bands from my childhood.
Kicking off this triple co-headlining extravaganza was Steve Miller Band. To be honest, I have always known the name and I was certain I knew his music, but I probably couldn’t have named more than two songs from him. Launching into his opening track “Swingtown,” it unlocked a memory of this song that I didn’t know I had. Steve Miller started singing and I, along with the rest of the stadium, created a huge sing along with him. I had no idea where these lyrics were coming from in my mind, but I knew it was music my mom would have had to have played for me growing up. He played song after song, and I found myself singing along with each and every one of them. The man is in his 80’s and still rocking and grooving with heart, soul, and passion, and the crowd was feeding it right back to him. A special moment was when he went into his song “Rock’n Me,” and within a matter of seconds into the opening riff all the moms in the crowd absolutely lost it. The crowd was filled with women up and dancing while their husbands stayed seated. Many girls’ night out groups could be found dancing with each other and being transported back to their younger days. This trend continued through all of his songs which included “Serenade,” “The Stake,” “Living in the U.S.A.,” “Fly Like an Eagle,” “Abracadabra,” “Jungle Love,” “Take the Money and Run,” “The Joker,” and ending with “Jet Airliner.” When Steve Miller Band finished, I cheered, but all I could really do was thank him for writing music that helped bring fun and joy to my childhood.
The second of our triple co-headliners was Journey. Considered one of the greatest karaoke bands ever. Vocalist Arnel Pineda has cemented himself as Journey’s premiere singer with his nearly two decade tenure with the band. However, he could have just stood on stage and smiled at the crowd while never singing a single note, as the entirety of Petco Park turned the place into karaoke night at our local dive bar as we were all the lead singers of Journey this night. Even with Arnel being amplified by the speakers, his voice was no match for the love and passion that all the fans were singing with. Lead guitarist Neal Schon was nothing but smiles throughout their whole performance, coming to the edge of the catwalk frequently to be closer to the screaming fans. After 50 years of playing Journey tunes, he still hits every solo and note with a love and passion that is felt and seen by the crowd. Knowing this man has written some of the best arena rock guitar anthems of the past half century, the fans were nonstop dancing in their seats to every chord played. Keyboardist Jonathan Cain, bassist Todd Jensen, and drummer Dean Castranova were all jamming at the stop of the catwalk, but their love for the music could be felt by their playing. Castranova specifically handled vocal duty on one of my personal favorites “Lights.” A song about the bay area and San Francisco specifically, but I always hold that song close to me as it takes me back to any fireworks night at the Oakland Athletics coliseum with my grandpa growing up. Journey kept this drive and passion up for songs like “Only the Young,” “Be Good to Yourself,” “Stone in Love,” “Ask the Lonely,” “Escape,” “Who’s Crying Now,” “Faithfully,” “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’,” “Open Arms,” “Line of Fire,” “Dead or Alive,” “Wheel in the Sky,” “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” and ending with “Any Way You Want It.” This was the greatest night of live band karaoke any of us could have ever asked for.
Our final triple co-headliner was Def Leppard. When I first discovered Glam Metal, Leppard was always a standout band in the genre for me. I was even fortunate to see them a few times at Irvine Meadows where they filmed the music video for “Two Steps Behind” (though that video was filmed decades before I ever saw them live there). But it had been years since these cherished live shows, and I was ready to take in every moment I could. Opening with “Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop),” vocalist Joe Elliot still sounds amazing on the mic after all these years. Bassist Rick Savage was probably the biggest showman of the band, frequently walking to the edge of the catwalk and making eye contact with every person he could. I, myself, was momentarily star struck when Rick and I got caught eyes, that I forgot I was taking photos and was transported back to being a little kid staring up at one of his musical icons. Guitarist Phil Collen and Vivian Campbell are the backbone of the band with their guitar melodies and riffs. The band always keeps the instrumental track “Switch 625” in the setlist in memory of former guitarist Steve Clark who passed away in 1991. Clark himself was responsible for so many of the iconic guitar lines that helped cement the legacy that Def Leppard has become known for. Drummer Rick Allen is buried behind his specially modified drum kit but stands up any chance he gets to greet the crowd. Even with only one arm, he is able to be the rock that keeps the band in time and the songs rhythmically flowing. Throughout the set, the band would walk up and down the catwalks playing it up to the crowd. But we got a few songs where the whole band moved to the front thrust of the catwalk to perform “Two Steps Behind,” “This Guitar,” “Bringin’ On the Heartbreak,” “Rock of Ages,” and “Photograph.” This moment turned Petco Park into a small club setting where we had a more intimate moment with the band. Def Leppard blew the invisible roof off the stadium with other classics like “Rocket,” “Foolin’” “Armageddon It,” “Animal,” “Love Bites,” “Just Like ’73,” “Billy’s Got a Gun,” “Too Late for Love,” “Die Hard the Hunter,” “Hysteria,” and ending with the crowd pleasing “Pour Some Sugar on Me.” This was easily the best show I’ve seen from the band.
From moms having a girl’s night out, to dads reliving their bar crawl days rocking out to music, to couples dancing in the crowd to their wedding music, to parents handing down this music to their kids, Petco Park was packed with fans of all ages there to enjoy some of the best rock has ever had to offer. What is the saying, “You can’t beat the classics.” Def Leppard, Journey, and Steve Miller Band put on a show that holds up a very strong argument for that statement. There aren’t many tours like this where fans of any age can show up and know every song that is played and sing along with the bands. This music is the music of mine, and so many other younger kids in the crowds, childhood. And it will always hold a special place in my heart for the memories it has given me with my family.
Both Lamb of God and Mastodon helped usher in a new era of heavy metal dubbed ‘The New Wave of American Heavy Metal.' Lamb of God, with their combination of death metal and thrash, created a new ruthless force in the music world. With Mastodon, they took progressive, sludge, stoner, and alternative metal to new strange heights that gave a voice to the essential elements of the world. When the heavy metal world needed new heroes, these two groups stepped up to carry the banner. On August 31, 2004, Lamb of God and Mastodon released their quintessential albums that turned them into household names, Ashes of the Wake and Leviathan, respectively. 20 years later since they were released, they are still admired as one of the two greatest metal records of the 21st Century. To celebrate this achievement, they embarked on an epic American tour fashioned as the Ashes of Leviathan tour, which included a stop at the world-famous Kia Forum in Inglewood. Coming along for the fun was thrash metal legend Kerry King & his new solo group, and English hardcore bashers Malevolence. Time for all four groups to rise from the ashes to bring L.A. a new awakening.
First up was Malevolence. The bashers of Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England looked to give their American counterparts a taste of what British headbanging is all about. Frontman Alex Taylor was a roaring machine whose screams had the potential to blast through brick walls. While Taylor handled the belting, Konan Hall provided the more harmonious singing at the same time as he riffed the hellish licks. I tell you what, I was impressed with the lead guitar work of Josh Baines, who used combined elements of groove, metalcore, and hardcore metal to give the solos knockout punches that would rattle the ancestors of the L.A. crowd. Malevolence’s crowd was not very big as fans were still coming and there were some issues with the sound, but they soldiered on through. Giving it all they got, the five-piece outfit entertained with songs like “Malicious Intent,” “Life Sentence,” “Still Waters Run Deep,” “Self Supremacy,” “Higher Place,” “Keep Your Distance,” and “On Broken Glass.” The few loyal metalheads in attendance provided Malevolence with a respectful mosh pit. One band down, three to go.
Ascending to the stage next is a man who puts the “thrash” in thrash metal shredding, Kerry King of Slayer. It has been years since we saw King and Slayer when they went on their farewell tour, but now he emerges once more with his solo band. Ever since From Hell I Rise hit the streets earlier this year, the gates of Hell opened inside the Forum. Performing with Kerry were the same musicians that performed on his album: frontman Mark Osegueda of Death Angel, lead guitarist Phil Demmel of Machine Head, bassist Kyle Sanders of Hellyeah, and King’s Slayer brother, Paul Bostaph on drums. All five of these all-star metal musicians created a band that was the stuff of nightmares. As Osegueda belted his ferocious voice, the tornado of terror got even bigger. Both King and Demmel are the hellacious duo of guitarists, slaying the entire L.A. crowd with wick solos and forked-tongue licks. From “Diablo” to “Where I Reign,” “Trophies of the Tyrant,” “Residue,” “Toxic,” “Idle Hands,” and “Shrapnel,” it was a sight to see. The crowd went even more crazy when they went into Slayer’s “Raining Blood” and “Black Magic.” Finishing off their night with the self-titled track, King demonstrated he was still a king in the thrash world.
Changing gears to something more progressive and sludger, black curtains with the Mastodon dropped down and the group from the ATL took over the driver’s seat with “Blood and Thunder.” Bassist and co-lead vocalist Troy Sanders, geared with his signature Jaguar Fender bass, delivered the harsh growls and melodic singing that really sets him apart from other metal artists. Lead guitarist Brent Hinds not only shared lead vocal duties with Troy, but he also shredded the absolute shit out his weapon, emulating the banjo fingering technique that has made him swift. Rhythm player Bill Kelliher destroyed the main riffs on his Les Pauls, while drummer Brann Dailor went into his technical prowess to achieve that perfect progressive/stoner/sludge beat. With each song from Leviathan being played, the jumbo screen behind them projected cool images that transported us to the ocean, braving the crashing seas as the metal faithful was in battle mode in the pits. From “I Am Ahab” to “Seabeast,” “Island,” “Iron Tusk,” “Megalodon,” “Naked Burn,” “Aqua Dementia,” “Hearts Alive,” and the instrumental “Joseph Merrick,” hearing the entire Leviathan album live was so special. Following that, Mastodon treated the crowd to three more songs that included “More Than I Could Chew” from Hushed and Grim, “Circle of Cysquatch” from Blood Mountain, and “Streambreather” from Emperor of Sand. During those songs, Dailor jumped into the lead vocal seats and nailed it. He is like the Phil Collins of heavy metal. It was a great set, and Mastodon promised to return soon with their next album. I cannot wait for that.
Following Leviathan, the L.A. metalheads were in for a crash course that was Lamb of God’s Ashes of the Wake. As soon as their black curtain dropped, they kicked things into high gear with the supreme “Laid to Rest.” Randy Blythe is the ever-menacing frontman whose dynamic stage presence and blistering screams make him one of the premier leaders in modern metal. Lead guitarist Mark Morton laid down his groove metal/death metal chops, intimidating yet melodic. He is still one of the top dogs in the lead guitarist department. Rhythm man Willie Adler outputted his unique odd rhythms that goes along nicely with Morton’s solos. Also, it is Willie’s shredding capabilities with his pinky that make him that more special on stage. Bassist John Campbell is looking like Old Man River with his bushy beard, but he is still a fast player whose exactitude on his signature Jacksons make him more lethal. Rounding out Lamb of God is my boy, drummer Art Cruz whose speed and solid blast-beats brought new life to the group after the sudden departure of Chris Adler. Just like Mastodon, Lamb of God used the screens behind them and showed intense shots/images. Rabit and I were air guitaring the entire Ashes of the Wake with intensity. From “Hourglass” to “Now You’ve Got Something to Die For,” “The Faded Line,” “Omerta,” “Blood of the Scribe,” “One Gun,” “Break You,” “What I’ve Become,” the self-titled track, and “Remorse Is for the Dead,” Lamb of God conveyed brutality to a new level. Once the album ran its course, the band was not done as they went into two songs from Sacrament, which included “Walk With Me in Hell” (which was dedicated to Cruz for being the L.A. native) and “Redneck,” where I saw the cyclone of chaos reach the level of F5 status. No words, just a beautiful sight.
The Ashes of Leviathan tour was a huge success at the Kia Forum (ugh! I hate calling it that). To watch these titans of heavy metal play their iconic albums in their entirety is something to always cherish. Mastodon teleported us to the gnarly realm of water, while Lamb of God gave the crowd a severe case of whiplash the next day. Kerry King has entered the newest chapter of his storybook thrash metal career, and Malevolence spread hardcore malice to Inglewood. Rabit and I went home feeling euphoric, wondering how can this tour top this year? That is one of the best things about heavy metal, you never know. To Lamb of God, Mastodon, Kerry King, and Malevolence, I salute you. Horns up!!!
Photos by Matt 'Rabit' Martinez
It was a night of two of the best albums that the 90’s had to offer. It was also a night of some of the best live music that 2024 has to offer. In what is being billed as the Jubilee Tour, co-headliners +LIVE+ and Stone Temple Pilots took over the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, CA, on August 18th for a 30th anniversary celebration of two multi-million selling albums, +LIVE+’s Throwing Copper, and Stone Temple Pilots Purple. The concert was just the second night of the tour, but these are veteran bands and there wasn’t any rust to be found in either performance. As co-headliners, each band did a complete set with +LIVE+ taking the first slot for this show.
Founding member and lead vocalist Ed Kowalczyk, along with lead guitarist Zak Loy, bassist Chris Heerlein, and drummer Johnny Radelat took the stage and delivered everything the audience hoped for and more. While there were plenty of puns to be heard, “Wow. LIVE is great live!” the best humor comes from a place of truth. The band was great. Passionate vocals from Kowalcyzk, (ably backed by Loy and Heerlein), and great guitar work by Loy brought all of +LIVE+’s hits to life.
While this is the 30th anniversary of Throwing Copper and a majority of the set list came from the album, the band also included hits like “The Dolphin's Cry" from The Distance to Here. But it wasn’t just a retrospective for the Kowalczyk. The band played their new song, “Lady Bhang (She Got Me Rollin’)”, which on the album features Stone Temple Pilots Dean DeLeo joining on guitar. (DeLeo did not join +LIVE+ on stage for this performance.)
Then it was time for the theater to turn purple. STP was there to mark the 30th anniversary of their sophomore album, Purple, by playing it in its entirety. The opposite of +LIVE+, where the lead singer is the only original member, Stone Temple Pilots features founding members Dean DeLeo on guitar, brother Robert DeLeo on bass, and Eric Kretz on drums. Over the years, Purple has made many lists as being a defining album of the 90’s as well as top rock album in general.
The band played the songs as tracked on the album, leading off with “Meatplow.” A few treats were thrown in along the way. Steve Ferrone of Average White Band and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers sat in on drums on “Interstate Love Song.” Later after finishing off Purple with “Kitchenware & Candybars”, Kenneth Pattengale of The Milk Carton Kids joined on guitar for “Plush.” The evening came to a rousing end with the epic closer, “Sex Type Thing” leaving the entire audience worn out and energized at the same time.
Dean DeLeo was spot on sonically the entire night with crunchy riffs and soaring solos. Robert DeLeo and Eric Kretz were the combination engine that drove the music to places passionate and powerful, but yet incredibly mesmerizing like the acoustic “Pretty Penny.”
Here’s the moment to talk about STP lead singer, Jeff Gutt. The guy can sing. The guy can perform. It’s a tough job to take over for one of the most iconic frontmen of all time, (two actually). But Gutt totally rises to the challenge. One thing to remember, he’s now been in the band for seven years. But since this was a celebration of Purple, the band didn’t play any of their material recorded with Gutt. But check out the two albums recorded with him. They are worth a listen.
The opening act was Our Lady Peace. They hail from Canada and are another band that got started in the 90’s. The current lineup of Raine Maida on lead vocals, Duncan Coutts on bass, Steve Mazur on guitar, and Jason Pierce on drums showed they were a great choice to start the evening. (Special note: Our Lady Peace only opened the first two shows of the tour. The remainder of the dates will feature Soul Asylum.)
Uncured's latest single, "Manifesto," hits the nu-metalcore scene like a lightning bolt, packing a mighty punch of raw energy and untamed emotion. These guys have always been masters at melding heavy metal's brute force with catchy melodies, and with this track, they're pushing the envelope even further. From the moment it kicks off, "Manifesto" grabs your attention with gritty, in-your-face riffs, intricate rhythms, and fierce, unyielding vocals that demand to be heard.
True to Uncured's form, "Manifesto" doesn't shy away from tackling heavy topics. The lyrics courageously delve into urgent social issues like gun violence, child and domestic abuse, and sex trafficking, crafting a narrative that's as much a battle cry as it is a mirror reflecting our society's darker corners. Rex Cox digs in a bit further:
“’Manifesto’ casts a wide net, talking about gun violence, child and domestic abuse, sex trafficking, and so many other horrible things in our world. It’s Uncured’s ‘manifesto’ that identifies the persistent atrocities that lurk beneath the surface of politics, media, and everyday life. Some may find our choice of words in the song offensive if they approach it at a superficial level. Dig just a bit deeper and you will see that we are calling out the people and institutions that abuse their power to take advantage of the weakest among us.”
Rex Cox's vocal delivery is nothing short of explosive, riding high on brother Zak Cox's mind-blowing guitar effects and relentless riffs. Add in the rock-solid percussion from Zachary King and Betto Andrade's powerful basslines, and you've got a sonic experience that layers intensity upon intensity. And just when you think you've got it all figured out, the track throws a curveball with a self-reflective, five-part a cappella harmony, showcasing the band's incredible range and versatility.
"Manifesto" stands a cut above Uncured's previous releases with its slick production and audacious musical arrangements. This track takes their sound to daring new heights, offering a fresh twist that sets them apart in the nu-metalcore arena. Their commitment to creating music that both challenges and inspires is crystal clear in "Manifesto" and their other recent hit, "Mask of Sanity," marking these songs as pivotal milestones in their burgeoning career.
Looking forward to the future, Uncured's upcoming album Warpath, slated for early 2025, promises to expand on the groundwork laid by "Manifesto" and "Mask of Sanity". Fans are buzzing with excitement over initial chatter on tracks like "Crucify" and "Bleed Me Dry," which are already stirring up anticipation. The band hints at an even more dynamic and thought-provoking journey, so mark those calendars and check out their website for the most recent Uncured updates. Rex, Zak, "King Z", & Betto are ready to take you on an exhilarating ride as they continue to push the boundaries of nu-metalcore with Warpath. Don't miss out on being part of this thrilling evolution!
For well over a year, I’ve heard the buzz about a punk band out of Australia and their reputation for delivering memorable live shows. Amyl and the Sniffers finally came through town last week and I can now resoundingly confirm –the quartet out of Melbourne are the real deal. The band is led by 28-year-old vocalist Amy Taylor, one of the most entrancing live performers I’ve seen in quite some time. A rising star has been born. Bassist Gus Romer, drummer Bryce Wilson, and guitarist Declan Martens blend gritty 70’s punk (Iggy and the Stooges comes to mind), hints of Chuck Berry rockabilly licks, and some funky bass lines that provide the powerful musical foundation for Amy’s singing and entertaining stage antics.
With San Diego’s newest live music venue, The Sound (Del Mar Fairgrounds), needing all of its 1,900 capacity to absorb the huge crowd, Amy and the band took the stage with the brisk and loud, “Balaclava Lover Boogie”. The mostly 20 and 30-something crowd danced, screamed lyrics with Amy, and bodies of enthusiastic crowd surfers flew over the stage barrier into the arms of awaiting security personnel. It was great to see a punk show attracting a large percentage of female fans, obviously buoyed by the growing popularity of the female fronted band.
The 75-minute set never let off the gas. It was a non-stop loud up-tempo crazy punk show dominated by Amy’s captivating performance; she jumps, she headbangs, she laughs, she jumps some more, she furiously flings blond hair, she continuously breaks into contorted freaky dance moves, she playfully interacts with the crowd and sings with such energy and passion she holds the audience in the palm of her hand. It’s hard to take your eyes of her, she is so much fun to watch!
My current favorite track is the recently released single, “U Should Not Be Doing That”. It’s mellow by this band’s standards; an indie rock vibe combining a perfect dance tempo, subdued guitar chords and a fantastic funky bass riff with Amy’s crafty rap style singing. It’s an addicting song sure to get stuck in your head. Be sure to check out the video, it’s Amy in her raw performance glory. Other favorite tunes include “Guided by Angels” (another great video) and the catchy and humorous “Security”:
Security, will you let me in your pub?
I’m not looking for trouble, I’m looking for love
I’m not looking for harm, I’m looking for love
Will you let me in your hard heart? Let me in your pub
The biggest takeaway was the genuine refreshing fun the band exuded. Amyl and the Sniffers deliver punk attitude and angst, but they also offer layers of humor, sarcasm, and positivity. With Amy running all over the stage singing and smiling ear to ear, you can’t help but be enthralled and charmed by her. The future of rock is in good hands with young bands like Amyl and the Sniffers rising up to carry the torch for punk and heavy music.
Be well and keep rockin’ - Greg Vitalich
Picture this. Your favorite band announces their next tour. You’re beyond excited to see them. You go to check the tour dates, and your town isn’t listed. Now your excitement has been replaced with sadness and despair. But then you notice, the band is playing only one state over, and it’s only a six hour drive to get there. So, you and a couple friends pack the car, and hit the road. This was my exact experience when Halestorm announced their latest tour with co-headliner I Prevail. Halestorm has been a unicorn in my life, as whenever they happen to be in town, something always comes up and I must miss the show. I wasn’t gonna let them not coming to California stop me this time, as it’d been too long since I last saw them. My friends OJ, Bri, and myself hit the road to take on Arizona’s 111 degree weather for a bill that also featured Hollywood Undead and Fit for a King. This tour was too good of a lineup to have a six hour drive stop me from enjoying some of my favorite music.
Opening this stacked tour was Texas metalcore fan favorites Fit for a King. What I love about this band is the energy they all carry on stage. Vocalist Ryan Kirby has a vicious roar that carries a bite that will rip your head off. Bassist Ryan “Tuck” O’Leary is a bouncing jackrabbit on stage who spends more time flying through the air than standing on the ground. The man finds any surface he can to launch himself off of while still managing to pluck away on his instrument. Guitarist Daniel Gailey blends melodic rhythms with piercing guitar licks, and joins O’Leary in the skies throughout the show. Drummer Trey Celaya is bombastic behind the kit as he unleashes flurry after flurry of double-kick patterns. Fit for a King made their time count with a setlist of bangers that included “Keeping Secrets,” “Breaking the Mirror,” “Falling Through the Sky,” “End (The Other Side),” “Reaper,” “Technium,” “When Everything Means Nothing,” and ending with “God of Fire.” The crowd was amped up, and ready to let loose for the rest of the night.
Even though I was in Arizona, the next band was taking me home. Hollywood Undead brought their beach party vibes to the Arizona desert. Kicking off their set with “California Dreaming” as I was transported home singing along with the band. Not just me, but the whole crowd could have sung this show themselves. The Arizona Financial Theatre was turned into a karaoke lounge, and the only tracks being played were Hollywood Undead. The boys of the band which features co-vocalists Jorel “J-Dog” Decker, Dylan “Funny Man” Alvarez, George “Johnny 3 Tears” Ragan, Jordan “Charlie Scene” Terrell, and Danny Murillo planted plastic LED palm trees around the stage and had a cardboard sign next to the DJ table that read Hotel Kalifornia. The band created a fun frat boy party house vibe where the only two rules were to drink and have fun. Hollywood Undead even made a special moment for a very young fan who they brought on stage to help introduce the song “Another Way Out.” Charlie Scene even tried to get her to scream “Mother Fucker” into the mic, but she adorably didn’t do it. This party was kept rolling through all of their songs like “CHAOS,” “Riot,” “Everywhere I Go,” “Renegade,” “Comin’ in Hot,” “Ruin My Life,” “Hear Me Now,” “Sweet Caroline,” “Bullet,” and playing “Undead” for the last call song. Though Hollywood Undead’s party was ending, the fans were ready to keep raging for the rest of the night.
As this was a co-headliner, it was a gamble on who might be coming out next as the bands had been switching off closing spots all tour. That’s when the giant LCD screens on stage lit up with the I Prevail logo, and we were ready to rock with them. Before the band could even hit the stage, the fans crowd surfed a wheelchair bound fan up and over the barricade. Security caught him safely and the fan was cheered like a true star. I Prevail then hit the stage with “There’s Fear in Letting Go.” Drummer Gabe Helguera sat atop the LCD screens with his kit and built up the anticipation banging away on his kit before unclean vocalist Eric Vanlerberghe came in with his growls. Vanlerberghe’s deeper vocals helps to build the power and strength behind I Prevails songs. But when clean vocalist Brian Burkheiser comes in with his melodic vocals, it releases all the pent-up energy that has been built up. It is a roller coaster ride listening to the ebb and flow that is created by Vanlerberghe and Burkheiser’s vocal trade off. Lead guitarist Steve Menoian and rhythm guitarist Dylan Bowman help to bring the heaviness to I Prevail’s sound with their mix of drive, distortion, and crunchy guitar licks. Burkheiser even took a moment to talk to the crowd about mental health and to not be too proud to just go and see a therapist for help before going into the song “Breaking Down.” Vanlerberghe also mentioned that as most of the tour had been in seated venues, he was happy that this place had room for a mosh pit, and would constantly call for the pit to spin faster throughout the set which featured “Body Bag,” “Self-Destruction,” “Bad Things,” “Blank Space,” “Deep End,” “Visceral,” “FWYTYK,” “Judgement Day,” “Choke,” “Hurricane,” “Bow Down,” and ending on the rage filled “Gasoline.” I Prevail brought their same headlining energy to the penultimate spot on this show, and the crowd was still ready for more.
As much as I am a fan of I Prevail, I was over the moon to be getting to send this show home with Halestorm being our closer tonight. As the band sauntered on stage, the crowd cheered for our headliners. But it wasn’t till vocalist and rhythm guitarist Lzzy Hale screamed the opening line from their first song “I Miss the Misery” that the crowd became unglued. The song had barely begun, and the fans were already in a state of pure ecstasy from the drug known as Lzzy Hale. Though Lzzy is the frontwoman, and often spotlighted as the main member of the band, when on stage Halestorm is a four piece rock band. Her brother and drummer Arejay Hale was behind the kit donning vibrant green hair and a white & black pinstripe suit, looking like Beetlejuice. Arejay could barely be contained back there as he was non stop throwing in stick tricks and exaggerated arm movements, bringing just as much of a show to the crowd as Lzzy. Lead guitarist Joe Hottinger is often seen linking up with Lzzy to trade off guitar riffs, and even spotlighted plenty with the solo’s he throws into the songs. Bassist Josh Smith is grooving on his axe, as he helps to enhance Arejay’s drumline.
Something you don’t get to see very often anymore with more modern bands is a drum solo. But Arejay took the time to show off his chops. Even pulling out oversized drumsticks that had to be at least three feet tall each. This drum solo culminated in the entire band walking out with a drum each and going into a marching band style drum performance that took the whole crowd by surprise. Halestorm and I Prevail recently released a new song they wrote together, as Eric Vanlerberghe was welcomed back on stage to help perform “can u see me in the dark?” Vanlerberghe & Lzzy’s vocals paired like oreo’s and milk to the ears. Other songs played included “Love Bites (So Do I),” “I Get Off,” “Freak Like Me,” “I Am the Fire,” “Familiar Taste of Poison,” “Takes MY Life,” “Back From the Dead,” “Mz. Hyde,” and allowing everyone to enter and worship the church of Halestorm by ending with the song “The Steeple.” As the band set down their instruments and came to the foot of the stage for a bow, no one was ready for this night to be over. This night was more than most of us could had hoped for, and though we had to face the reality of the real world again. We had a few short hours to forget about every trivial thing and just let love take over us.
I drove to Arizona with two friends who had heard of the bands playing this night but were not too familiar. They just said ‘screw it, let’s go” as they thought a trip to Arizona would be fun regardless of the bands playing. Though we listened to the bands on the drive there, and they had enjoyed the music, it was the live performances that truly won them over and instantly made them fans of all four bands. To those of us that are frequently going to concerts, we understand the power of a live performance, but we can’t always express it in words to others. Getting to see my friends OJ & Bri gush over the show and how amazing these artists are, helped remind me in real time just how powerful live music is. Even if your favorite band may not be playing your city, it can always be worth it to just jump in the car and hit the road to see them somewhere else.