Though I am someone that loves the energy and aggression that comes with metal music. I have a soft spot in my heart for the softer side that comes with gothic rock. Even frequenting some goth night clubs in my younger days. When I heard that The Sisters of Mercy were coming to town, to be honest the name did not sound familiar. But when I looked up their music, I was surprised to realize how much of their music I had heard before. All those years spent dancing at my favorite goth club, Necropolis, was secretly making me a Sisters fan, and I didn’t even know it. I knew I could not miss their show when it came to the Hollywood Palladium, and the nostalgic feeling hearing their music live might bring. Bringing with them Strange Cities to open the night, I along with many others, were ready to dance through night.
Opening the night was San Francisco post punk quartet Strange Cities, and they brought the perfect vibe for the night. Lead singer and guitarist Daniel Nakazo Clark layers his voice into Strange Cities music beautiful as if he is cry-singing from the heart. Speaking out to anyone who would listen to him. Trading off licks with fellow guitarist James Levis who brought a type of mystique to the stage as his person, as he let his guitar do the talking for him. Bassist Clay Vorheis and drummer Dan Caporale were in perfect sync as they created, what felt to me, as walking melodies. Strange Cities had the perfect grooves that you could just put your headphones on, go for a walk, and get lost for hours in their songs.
Finally, when it was time for The Sisters of Mercy to hit the stage, hearing their music live felt like I was getting ready every Wednesday night to head out to Necropolis. Opening the night with “Don’t Drive on Ice,” the Sisters were there to set a mood first and foremost. Fogging the entire Palladium up, and casting spot through strategically throughout the stage. The band members were lost in fog on stage, letting their sound radiate through the venue. Lead singer Andrew Eldritch was like Nosferatu stepping in and out of the foggy shadows. Armed with his deep baritone voice that sunk into your ears and gripped you tight, like the fangs of a vampire sinking into your skin. Flanked by guitarists Ben Christo & Dylan Smith who driving guitar lines raised the energy into the venue. Manning the drum machine known as Doktor Avalanche was Ravey Davey. Doktor Avalanche is the heart beat of the Sisters of Mercy, as he drives the rhythm and synths that gets the crowd dancing and losing themselves in the atmosphere that is created. Fans could not be stopped from dancing through The Sisters 22 song set which included “Ribbons,” “Crash and Burn,” “Alice,” “First and Last and Always,” “But Genevieve,” “Giving Ground,” “Show me,” “More,” “Eyes of Caligula,” “I Was Wrong,” and “When I’m on Fire.” The Sisters of Mercy couldn’t settle for a quick encore, as they knew their fans pleaded for more, and played a three song encore featuring “Lucretia My Reflection,” “Temple of Love,” and ending with “The Corrosion.”
I knew I was in for a treat with The Sisters of Mercy coming back to Hollywood. I was expecting to see many people come out in support of the Sisters and their legacy. What was I was not prepared to see was the attire of the night. Seeing people pilling into the Hollywood Palladium dressed head to toe in gothic fashion like black fabrics, torn clothes, pentagrams, chains, belts, big hair, striking black eye liner, and more. It was gorgeous. It wasn’t just the younger kids either, all the elder goths brought out their 80s gothic fashion from deep in the closet to show up in droves. As I mentioned, the show had people dancing all night long, and that includes the elder goths reliving their younger years without a care in the world. The night belonged to them, and no one could take that moment from them.
Crafting an new album can be a challenge for some bands. Writing, constructing, and recording are all entire processes in and of themselves. Some bands can write a new album every year to bring new music to the masses. Other bands like to take a bit more time to fine tune every aspect of the album to make sure every song is crafter to the perfect degree. Though this makes the fans wait even longer for new music from their favorite bands, when the album is finally released, we could not be more excited! After six years, Nothing More finally put out their newest album since 2017 called Spirits, and to accompany it went on their Spirits Tour 2023. Bringing with them Crown the Empire and Thousand Below. It was time to enter the doors of the Belasco Theatre to prove we really want it.
Opening the Spirits Tour was a California native post-hardcore band called Thousand Below. Thousand Below got the night of hard rock started the right way opening their set with the song “Hell Finds You Everywhere.” Drummer Max Santoro kicked off the song with a grooving tom fill that built the energy of the song and crowd. Lead Singer James Deberg came in with a perfectly balance layer of screamed/melodic vocals that you can just hear the passion in his voice. Guitarist Josh Thomas was the riff master of the night on his axe, while providing backing vocals that helped elevate Debergs. Bassist Josh Billimoria brought the physical energy into his performance along with his bass lines. It’s always great when an opening band connects with the audience, and Thousand Below did just that, as patrons across the Belasco Theatre could be seen head banging to songs like “Chemical,” “No Place Like You,” “Venenosa,” “Silent Season,” “Sabotage,” and ending their set with “Sinking Me.” By the time Thousand Below finished their set and transition music started playing over the speakers, the audience got a taste of live music they love and couldn’t wait for the rest of the bands this night.
Up next was Crown the Empire who just released their fifth studio album Dogma. Ready to bring their new music to the fans in the Belasco, they kicked off their set with the title track “DOGMA.” Before the notes of the opening track could even be played, the crowd could be heard screaming for lead singer Andy Leo Rockhold. As the track started Andy stepped onto stage wearing a floor length fur coat, ready to get the crowd moving. Andy celebrated his birthday a couple days prior to the show, and a fan bought a beer for the birthday boy, who proceeded to drink and spill the beer all over the stage. The fans screamed in excitement as they launched into their second track “The Fallout.” Guitarist Brandon Hoover not only brings some of the heaviest riffs of the night but would routinely douse himself in water between songs and then splashed the front row as he whipped his hair like we were at SeaWorld. Bassist Hayden Tree was grooving all night on his instrument while providing the melodic harmonies to backup Andy. Drummer Jeeves Avalos was rocking out shirtless in the back slamming on his cymbals. Crown the Empire got the fans so excited that they started crowd surfing to come over the barricade during their favorite songs like “Black Sheep,” “BLURRY (Out of Place),” “What I Am,” “Immortalize,” “Machines,” “In Another Life,” and ending the set with “Dancing with the Dead.”
Finally, it was time for Nothing More, and I could not be more excited personally. It’s been a couple years since I’ve seen Nothing More on a headlining tour, and I was ready for a full set of music to lose myself in. Starting off the night with the title track “Spirits” off the newest album, the song starts with a very soft intro that builds the excitement of the power that is about to come. As soon as the verse kicks in and vocalist Jonny Hawkins lets out his noticeable scream, the lights kick up and the Belasco Theatre is bouncing. Hawkins is one of the most consistently energetic front men I continue to see live. He is an unhinged madman running across the stage shirtless and shoeless the entire set, making the crowd feels the lyrics not just hears them. Bassist Daniel Oliver and Drummer Ben Anderson are a dynamic duo who craft melodic yet powerful rhythms to the songs. The bass line holds the rhythmic flow of the song, while the drums pack the power that can’t stop someone from rocking out. Guitarist Mark Vollelunga is just the icing on top of the Nothing More cake as he drives the songs with his guitar riffs that enhance Hawkin’s already roaring vocals. Nothing More creates an arena’s amount of energy by playing bangers like “Do You Really Want It?” “Tired of Winning,” “Ships in the Night,” “Jenny,” “Let ‘em Burn,” “Go to War,” “Turn It Up Like (Stand in the Fire).” and “Don’t Stop.” But the band also knows how to slow down the pace while keeping the crowd engaged. Some of the softer songs played that night included “Best Times,” “I’ll Be Ok,” and “Fadein/Fadeout.” Ending their night with “This is the Time (Ballast),” every member jumped on their own drumhead to create a four way drum outro that left the fans crying for more even though this was the end.
As the echoes of music started to fade coming out of the loudspeakers, the fans adrenaline was still on high. People were not ready to leave as they screamed for more music; the security had to start clearing people out of the venue. As we all made our way out of the venue: out of breath from singing all night light, covered in sweat from moshing and headbanging the entire show, every fan had a smile on their face from how much all these bands mean to us. You could tell that Nothing More, Crown the Empire, and Thousand Below all hold a special place in each of our musical hearts, and seeing them live let our musical passion flow freely.
Hunnypot delivered another electrifying experience (#486). Co-host for the night was Multi-Platinum award winning Producer and MadxMosh Managing Partner, Darryl Swann. The lineup was packed with young and buzzing artists who blow our minds.
The night kicked off with the Hip-Hop stylings of Finding Novyon. Devon Thompson brought her brutal punk rock honesty to the stage, while SAFTisland offered a unique fusion of indie rock and hip hop that had the whole room bouncing off the walls.
#WhereMusicLoversGoToPlay
Moshpit XR LLC Managing Partner; Virtual Concerts & Events; Grammy Producer; Sony/ATV & Universal Music Publisher; Dolby Atmos; UCLA & NYU Immersive Media Lecturer; Author: "Essential Guide to Songwriting, Producing, Recording".THE ALIVE
Growing up a pale, emaciated misfit Devon Thompson found her home listening to music. A California child of the sun she was not meant to be. Early Siouxsie, The Animals, The Cramps, Bill Evans and the Beatles permeated her developmental years. By the age of 19 Devon had been playing Los Angeles clubs with her bands for many seasons.
Her recordings are thus far lingering with the Bel Canto of Roy Orbison, the delicacy of Harriett Wheeler and the sheer aggression of PJ Harvey. Devon has trimmed her ensemble to the bare essentials for maximum impact. Devoid of pre-records, and modern gimmick Devon keeps her songs and show brutally honest in delivery. Bass, Drums and her library of beautiful Guitars allow Devon’s audience to witness the most delicate surgery to primordial amputation of sound in the same set.
"The new single has an angry, unforgettable chorus driven by Thompson’s fiery fret-play on a classic guitar. “ - Beats Per Minute
"This artist channels elements of classic rock, with a modern flair, and a twist of vibrant personality to make songs like this shine." - Chorus FM
“A raw, driving rocker.” - Buzzbands LA
“The driving guitar track is the snarling sound of a young woman discovering who she is.” - She Makes Music
Against the Current, Poughkeepsie’s sensational pop and rock stalwarts, stormed the stage at the Varsity Theater this past Saturday with an explosive performance that is sure to have left the full audience completely in shock. Chrissy Costanza and crew (that being Dan Gow & Will Ferri) have seen a steady and deserved rise in popularity over the past decade-plus for good reason, and for the Nightmares and Daydreams Tour they brought heavy-hitting support with Australia’s Yours Truly and Trophy Eyes, each recognized for their own take on heart-on-your-sleeve punk music.
The night started off with a lively set from Yours Truly, who had the crowd dancing and singing along to their catchy tunes. Frontwoman Mikaila Delgado had those in attendance wrapped around her finger as she went through hit after hit from the band’s back catalog. Yours Truly’s catchiness was absolutely off the charts as - something that will come as no surprise to their die-hard fans - they truly filled the venue and set the tone for the rest of the night.
Next up was Trophy Eyes, who brought a heavier, hardcore-leaning sound to the stage. Their set was hardcore pandemonium, an affair that had the crowd moshing and jumping along to their balls to the wall songs. The band’s 40 minute set was made up of a mix of hits off their past few albums, but also several new cuts like "Blue Eyed Boy" (their opener), "What Hurts the Most", and "Kill". Lead singer John Floreani gave everything he had, starting their set reserved (by their standards) and screaming pretty much every single word he could by the end, vehemently imploring the crowd to connect with him.
But it was Against the Current who truly stole the show with their dynamic setlist and high-energy performance. The band took the stage with their hit song "That Won't Save Us" and immediately had the crowd on their feet, and based on the volume in there, sounded like they already knew every single word to it by heart. They cruised through some more hits off their recent EP fever, and played a live rendition of brand new single “good guy”. Their performance was a testament to their talent and ability to demonstrate just how powerful live music can be. The juxtaposition of Costanza’s powerful, nearly-operatic vocals with tight musicianship makes for a show as explosive as it is heartfelt.
If you're a fan of pop rock or just looking for a high-energy live show, the Nightmares & Dreams Tour is a tour you won't want to miss. All three brands bring a different form of captivating, electric energy, sure to leave any music listener, no matter their tastes, with a night they will remember for some time.
Saturday night I had the pleasure of experiencing a band that has gone unjustifiably under the radar for some time. The group known as Daisy the Great is an indie-pop group that specializes in their notable vocals and upbeat melodies. The group found a following with their single that goes by “The Record Player Song”, which demonstrates their tender and charming harmonies and eventually got them a version recorded with the pop icons - AJR. I first found Daisy the Great last year at a concert for The Wrecks, a group that is strikingly different. However, after listening to their performance, I can see exactly why The Wrecks had Daisy the Great open. This group radiates nothing but pure blissful energy, with the utmost talent.
Before getting to the dreamlike hymns of Daisy the Great, the Echoplex was lofted into similar musicians beginning with Johanna Samuels, who had a sound similar to the main act, with a slight folk edge. Samuels opened up the crowd with a mix of originals and covers and brought the acoustic energy to the Echoplex. Next to the stage was Olivia Klug. I, for one, absolutely fell in love with Klug’s music. They had a unique dynamic that immediately hooked me as a new fan. How could one not appreciate a group that brings not only a mandolin, but a full stand up bass to stage? The group taught the audience a chorus in one of my front-runners for this group, “Out of Line”, a chorus to which I was humming the rest of the night. Both openers rocked the house in preparation for the main act.
At Daisy the Great’s core, is a clear friendship amongst lead vocalists Kelley Nicole Dugan and Mina Walker. The two harmonized unlike any other duo I have heard before. I thought it might be a case of strategically recorded tracks, but no, the group matches one another unlike any other group, even more noticeably so in person. They have an extreme intonation that really makes their sound unique and stand-out. The band played some fan-favorites like the aforementioned “The Record Song” as well as “Glitter” and “Tell me Have You Been Dancing”. As well as some new melodies from their new album released in October of 2022 titled All You Need is Time. As well as some unreleased songs, a particular fan favorite seeming to be the unreleased track “Ballerina”. The group played another new song “Smile Pretty Girl” with opener Olivia Klug, bringing the night full circle.
All I have to say about these talented young musicians is they clearly have the expertise and flair to make it big. I for one am praying for their success, and cannot wait for more releases to come. They certainly don’t call them Daisy the Great for no reason.
France’s M83 (real name Anthony Gonzalez) has been on the cutting edge of the now fully revived and thriving Carpenter-throwback synthwave movement for some time. Releasing Midnight City well over a decade ago (sorry to put that out there) - which coincided with the sensational soundtrack of 2011’s Drive, spearheaded by Kavinsky’s Nightdrive - put M83 at the top before there was even a top to exist, despite the fact that Gonzalez’ aesthetic was something he had been hard at work at for a full decade prior. Fast forward 12 years and we have M83 dropping Fantasy this year, another album that is unmistakably and uniquely their own, continuing their journey at the top of the retro-revival act they helped to spearhead and seeing a return to the gorgeous, enormous spaces he explored on previous records. M83 hit the Palace Theater in Saint Paul this last week as part of the similarly-named Fantasy tour.
Gonzalez is known for large, bombastic productions, effortlessly bringing together disparate sounds to create a cohesive vision, but it can really go one of two ways when someone like that takes their show on the road - you might get someone orchestrating everything behind a deck (which has its own charm - not a knock) - or you might get the route M83 goes, with a huge backing band to translate his huge sonic visions into a huge live performance. The band comes out on stage for this tour to the gentle strums that make the opening of instrumental opening track "Water Deep", easing the anticipation of the crowd into the eventual, explosive crescendo found in the middle of the follow-up "Oceans Niagara". The lights pulse and glow in seeming parallel to the eventual build to that release of tension, a perfect symbiosis with the flair of M83’s work.
This energy flows into "Amnesia", a more traditional vocal-and-drum driven affair landing the packed crowd fully into the realm of dance. This ease of traversing moods has long been a staple of the band, made all the larger and more potent by the huge ensemble of backing musicians. Soundscapes bounded from gentle and intricate to effervescent and uncontained, guiding the audience across the imaginary landscapes that one thinks of when embracing the vision that M83’s new album presents. The crew brought the Palace crowd through a great deal of the Fantasy album before harkening way back into M83’s past for tracks like "Run Into Flowers" and "Gone", both cuts from their 2003 release Dead Cities, Red Seas and Lost Ghosts. These older tracks played just as powerfully, demonstrating the potency of the artistic vision that has driven the various evolutions of M83s sound.
Swinging back and forth across Fantasy and older tracks, it’s not an M83 show if it doesn’t close with "Midnight City" - which the crowd went absolutely ecstatic for as the telltale shouts began echoing over the speakers, a perfect way to sign off a night of memorable, emotional music.
The Hell & Back Tour featuring Keshi, No Rome, and James Ivy lit up the stage at the South Side Ballroom in Dallas, Texas. The sold-out crowd was buzzing with excitement, eagerly waiting for the start of the show.
The night kicked off with James Ivy, an indie-pop artist known for his unique sound that blends electronic beats with soulful melodies. His opening set was a perfect start to the night, getting the crowd warmed up with his smooth vocals and catchy beats. Ivy’s highlight performance was his latest single, “L-trip”, which brought the crowd to their feet and singing along.
Next up was No Rome, a rising Filipino-British artist who has been making waves in the music scene with his experimental sound that combines elements of R&B, pop, and electronic music. No Rome’s stage presence was undeniable, commanding attention from the moment he walked on stage. He performed a mix of old and new hits, including “Talk Nice” and “Hurry Home”.
Finally, it was time for the main event. Keshi, the headliner of the tour, took the stage to a thunderous roar from the audience. Keshi is known for his soulful voice and genre-bending music that blends pop, R&B, and indie-rock. His set included fan-favorites such as “Drunk” and “Blue” as well as new hits like “LIMBO” and “Beside You”. The crowd sang along to every word, and Keshi's emotional performance had many fans moved to tears.
Keshi's stage presence was captivating, and his music was only amplified by the mesmerizing light show and stage design. The highlight of the night was when he performed his encore with “Drunk”, which showcased his incredible vocal range and brought the audience to a moment of vast excitement to close out an already wonderful night.
Overall, The Hell & Back Tour featuring Keshi, No Rome, and James Ivy was a night to remember. Each artist brought a unique sound and energy to the stage, making for an unforgettable experience for all who attended.
Metalcore has been a huge driving force in my heavy metal education. From the screaming vocals to the blistering riffs, the resonant blast beats, and hellacious moshing to go along with the music, metalcore will always be a part of me. When it comes to this subgenre, one band from Ocala, Florida is looking to become the best of the best. I am talking about my boys of Wage War. What sets Wage War apart is their ability to throw in djent, hip hop, and nu metal into their signature sound and create magic with it. They proved that in 2021 with their latest release, Manic, and now they are back on the road to spread manic chaos to the masses. Joining them were metal/deathcore thrashers Spite and trap artist nothing,nowhere. One of their stops was at our favorite spot in Anaheim, the House of Blues on April 20th, so Rabit and I hopped in our car, and headed off to another heavy metal adventure.
Starting off the night were Bay Area bashers, Spite. This must be the 3rd or 4th time seeing them, and they always put on a spectacular performance. Darius Tehrani brings rage and viciousness to his vocals, throat punching us every time a verse comes out of him. His brother, Alex, slays the guitar riffs like Freddy Krueger slicing through your dreams. Bassist Stephen Mallory and drummer Cody Fuentes rounded out the group and they both brought destruction to the beat (and that’s a compliment). Spite recently put out their first record with Rise Records, Dedication to Flesh, and it has brought them up a peg in the metal community because the metalheads of that night were digging the new tunes they had created. From “Lord of the Upside Down” to “Caved In,” “Dedication to Flesh,” and “Crumble,” deathcore and metalcore mated together and gave us carnage. The rest of their set included the fan favorites like “IED,” “The Root of All Evil,” “Kingdom of Guts,” and “Kill or Be Killed.” The House of Blues is the biggest stage that I have seen them on, and after that night, I have a good feeling that the stages for Spite are only going to get bigger and meaner.
Up next was an artist known as nothing,nowhere. I’ve heard of this person in passing, but not had a chance to really look listen to him before this night. I have heard him feature on some pop punk and emo bands songs, which I thought might not fit with the more metalcore/hardcore energy of the night. But when he hit the stage, the genre of music that was played caught me off guard. Nothing,nowhere’s own music is more of a trap metal/emo rap style which find sonically into the night perfectly. Backed by a band of musicians, who’s names I unfortunately could not find, they brought the heaviness to nothing,nowhere’s sound that still let the raging fans go crazy in the mosh. Nothing,nowhere played a solid 40 minute set that kept the crowd jumping and going crazy with songs like “THIRST4VIOLENCE,” “PSYCHO_PSYCHIATRY,” “SUICIDE_PACT,” “dread,” “ANX13TY,” “Skully,” “TRAG3DY,” “buck,” “hammer,” “VEN0M,” and ending his set with “death.” Nothing.nowhere was the curve ball to the nights list of bands, but still managed to bring the house down.
Following nothing,nowhere’s performance, the crowd took a brief breather for merch and beer. About 30 minutes later, room goes dark, and war commences as Wage War starts off their set with “Relapse.” Frontman Briton Bond blew the audience away with his killer screams and at times, harmonious tones. Brute strength is what he displays every time he speaks. Along with rhythm guitarist Cody Quistad who sings the chorus’, both continue to make an effective duo on the mic. Lead axe man Seth Blake layered the tunes with vicious hooks that were also melodic. He did not always play solos, but his riffs along with Quistad’s brought the house down. Drummer Stephen Kluesener continues to put in elements jazz and blues to his post-hardcore & metalcore suave, while bassist Chris Gaylord kept the beat steady with his deafening blast licks. The whole night Wage War had the crowd in the palm of their hands with their great set list. Majority of their songs that night came from Manic, and they sounded fantastic. From “Teeth” to “Low,” “Southbound,” “Indestructible,” “Godspeed,” “High Horse,” “Slow Burn,” “Youngblood,” “Stitch,” “Me Against Myself,” “If Tomorrow Never Comes,” and “Circle the Drain,” it was metalcore excellence. For the encore, Wage War hit it home with a stripped-down version of “Johnny Cash” and the new favorite, “Manic.”
Like I said before, metalcore will always be a part of my life, and I cannot get enough it. Wage War put on their best show yet. Their willingness to experiment with their sound with the fans to see how they will react. Result, the metalheads of Anaheim caused chaos in Wage War’s honor. Same can be said about nothing,nowhere’s and Spite. Finally with a major metal label, they have reached the promise land. Metalcore was on fire at the House of Blues in Anaheim, and I cannot wait to go back for more. To Wage War, nothing,nowhere, and Spite, I salute you. Horns up!!!
Photos by Matt “Rabit” Martinez
On April 18, Destroy Boys made a stop at the El Rey Theater in Los Angeles, California while pursuing their world tour. The band’s support for the night was Dublin-based pop punk band, The Murder Capital, and punk group, Soul Glo.
The Murder Capital promptly took the stage at 8pm and included songs from their two albums, Gigi’s Recovery and When I Have Fears. This exciting set was the perfect opener for this perfectly punk night as the band encouraged a mosh pit to form and even jumped into the audience and crowd-surfed.
Soul Glo followed The Murder Capital’s performance and continued that undeniable energy that comes with a punk concert. Beginning their animated set with “ROLLING LOUD, HEAR MY CRY,” they gave the audience a taste of what was to come for the remaining 30 minutes of their set. The crowd was energized for the performance by throwing undergarments on stage as well as empowered with the band’s words of activism.
The Murder Capital and Soul Glo, combined, set the perfect precedent for Destroy Boys’ unstoppable stage presence.
Entering the stage, the Destroy Boys were met with shrieks of excited fans waiting for hours and moshing for an hour in preparation for the headliner. They started their set with their latest single, “Beg For The Torture,” which was released earlier this month. Their setlist consisted of songs primarily from their latest album, Open Mouth, Open Heart, and their 2018 album, Make Room.
Switching vocals on songs between lead singer and guitarist Alexia Roditis and guitarist Violet Mayugba kept the audience enthralled and their eyes glued to the stage in front of them as the mic moved with their bodies. Taking after The Murder Capital, Roditis jumped into the crowd before leaving in preparation for the encore.
After a brief intermission leaving the stage before returning for the encore, the band came back to perform their final two songs: “Drain You,” a Nirvana cover, and “Piedmont,” performed by Roditis as the rest of the band sat behind them.
Overall, the Destroy Boys show with support from Soul Glo and The Murder Capital was the ultimate punk experience: roaring voices, incredible instrumentalists, angsty, activist, and an incredible array of passionate and dedicated fans.
Over the past year I have been able to see some old school hip-hop artists I grew up listening to. Checked off a lot from my bucket list. This past Saturday I was able to check off some old school R&B groups I also grew up with and loved. The show started with Tank, and while I never really listened to him very much, he did sound great. GUY was up next, from 1988 to 1990 they were one of my favorite groups, knew every word to every song. They sounded good, put on an amazing performance and had the crowd dancing the entire time. Next up was Keith Sweat, and at 61 he can still belt it out! I have been a huge Keith Sweat fan since 1987 when I first heard “I Want Her,” and still listen to all his music on the regular. And then it was time for New Edition, I can still remember hearing “Candy Girl” when I was 13 for the first time. And then just being a part of my life for years and years after, whether it was N.E. or Bobby or BBD or Johnny or Ralph, together or solo. There was always a hit song for years. This entire concert was amazing, something I will never forget, and I would love to see them all in concert again it was so good.
So my review is going to be a little different than others I’ve done, so many things to talk about I thought I would share my random observations and thoughts:
1. We arrived a little late and only got to hear Tanks last song, but he sounded real good. What a great voice.
2. We saw Tank in our hotel bar before the show, would have gotten a photo with him but he was getting food and didn’t want to disturb him.
3. Went to the show with my wife, Mala, and two friends, James & Tina. We all had an amazing time!
4. Pretty cool how GUY came walking up stairs below the stage….nice entrance.
5. Teddy sounded very good on “I Want To Get With You.”
6. Damn Teddy and Damian were going all out dancing when they went into “Groove Me.”
7. Amazing listening to the crowd sing along to “Goodbye Love” and “Piece Of My Love”….every single word with Aaron. Chills!
8. Back in the late 80’s to early 90’s I used to think Aaron Hall had one of the greatest voices in all of R&B. He cannot belt it out like he used to, range isn’t what it once was and voice is kind of raspy, but he still sounded good!
9. Crowd was so into GUY but when they hit us with “Teddy’s Jam” WOW!
10. During “Let’s Chill” Aaron was in the crowd….way back in the crowd singing! Very cool, I can only imagine what it was like being right there.
11. Damian Hall, who they never really gave many songs to sing, sounded so so good. Range was there and also was dancing all over stage.
12. Teddy Riley….yep yep…..was on point. Had his keyboard on stage and did his autotune thing he always did.
13. Damian and Aaron Hall are in amazing shape, like totally cut.
14. Aaron is 58, Teddy is 55 and Damian is 54. And they danced like they were in their 30’s.
15. When they went onto the song that got me hooked on GUY…”I Like,” I don’t think there was one person in their seats.
16. Just when we thought they were done, Teddy brings in “Rump Shaker”….the place was rocking. Check baby check baby 1, 2, 3, 4 check baby check baby 1, 2, 3……
17. Keith Sweat…..I have been a huge fan since 1987. I find you either love him or hate him….no in between.
18. I have been waiting to catch him live for years…..well worth the wait.
19. My boy James LOVES him! LOL
20. As much as I love Keith Sweat as a singer…..he just can’t dance.
21. I have favorite songs from all his albums, but Make It Last Forever is still my favorite album, every single song is great. He played a lot of those songs!!!
22. He sounded so good.
23. I think I was the only one of the four of us that truly appreciated Keith Sweat….I was on my feet the whole time.
24. When he went into “I Want Her” every single person sang along, it was so loud it was as if the crowd had a mic. Seen you last night, Saw you standing there, Couldn't picture the color of your hair, And all I wanted to know, Were you really there?
25. His female background singer is amazing.
26. Listening to “There You Go Tellin’ Me No Again” made me think about him singing at the wedding in New Jack City.
27. Keith can sing!
28. One song I have never liked is “Merry Go Round” and I don’t think the crowd was into it either.
29. He paid tribute to Gerald Levert and played the LSG song “My Body.” Crowd loved it….I only wish Johnny would have come out to join him.
30. His rendition of “In The Rain” was fantastic, his improvising was so good.
31. He went into Silk’s “Freak Me” because he wrote it and knew the crowd would love it, and let the crowd take the song….14,000 people all singing together…pretty cool to hear! 'Cause tonight, baby, I wanna get freaky with you
32. Very cool bringing Teddy on stage for the last few songs since Teddy wrote and produced the first album with Keith. NEW JACK SWING!
33. Keith Sweat can belt it out!!!
34. The way he finished off was amazing-“Make It Last Forever,” “Right And A Wrong Way,” “How Deep Is Your Love,” “I’ll Give All My Love To You,” and finishing with “Nobody.” Simply amazing!
35. Did I mention Keith can really sing?
36. Did I mention his background singer can sing?
37. Major bucket list checked off the list.
38. We got a big surprise, we knew Bobby left the tour a few weeks ago and didn’t expect to see him….well (more on that in a second)
39. The intro was very cool, old clips and videos from over the years……..and then we hear Johnny’s voice….Johnny, Ronnie, Ricky, Mike, Ralph…….Bobby too well, well, well, well, oh welllll, word to the m-m-m-mutha. As they come up rising from below the stage. CROWD WENT NUTS!!!! Goosebumps!
40. My wife and I wore matching shirts that read, Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky, Mike, Ralph & Johnny. We got sooooo many compliments!
41. Wow can they still dance.
42. Ralph sounds the same.
43. Started off with “Crucial” and they killed it.
44. They were the first boyband, they invented the boyband; and they are still the BEST to ever do it, hands down, no one even close.
45. The showmanship…wow.
46. Ralph can sing!
47. Johnny Gill
48. Johnny Gill to me had the best R&B male voice back in the day, so amazing…..and he still is amazing. Still my favorite male voice.
49. “Rub You The Right Way” wow…….
50. When I say Bobby, you say Brown…Bobby (Brown) Bobby (Brown)…..Bobby came on stage for “My Prerogative.” The. Crowd. Went. CRAZY!
51. My biggest surprise of the entire show was Bobby and his singing……he sounded really really good. Better than I think he has sounded in years. He didn’t dance at all, but I’ll take it.
52. The band and DJ for New Edition sounded so good, and I doubt any of them were even alive when New Edition first came out. Heck probably weren’t alive when Heart Break came out or even Home Again.
53. “If It Isn’t Love” was next and all I could think about was their video….practicing their dance steps. A lot of the same moves on stage.
54. Bobby came back on stage and they took us back to late 1984 with “Mr. Telephone Man.” Took us all back to our childhood.
55. Ralph and Bobby can really sing!
56. They kept us back in ‘84 with “Cool It Now,” and while their voices are more mature and different now, they sure can pull off these songs they sang as teens.
57. Did I mention they can dance and put on a show?
58. Ronnie pretty much looks the same.
59. They finished off the old school stuff with the song that got us all hooked on N.E., “Candy Girl” and then “Count Me Out.” It is amazing how some songs can transform you back to a different time for a moment!
60. It was time for Bobby to come back on stage and slow it down a little with “Roni.” Crowd swaying back and forth all song.
61. Bobby got himself a nice voice.
62. My, My, My……it holds a special place in my heart.
63. Johnny simply KILLED it on My, My, My
64. Did I say Johnny can sing?
65. He must have sung My 200 times….in so many different ways!
66. And the crowd could have sat through another 500 Mys.
67. Ricky is 55, Michael is 54, Bobby is 54, Ronnie is 55, Johnny is 56 and Ralph is 54, and they are still so good!
68. While we got to hear Ralph on most N.E. songs as the lead singer, we needed to hear a solo song. He hit us with a nice chill rendition of “Sensitivity.” Very nice!
69. It was finally time to hear some BBD. They have been dancing all night and singing background.
70. “When Will I See You Smile Again?” was first up….little surprised to hear them start slow.
71. Ricky sounded great!
72. Crowd singing along the whole time….especially the OHHHHH!
73. I didn’t love BBD back in the day (liked but not loved), but when “Do Me” or “Poison” came on at the club, everyone had to jump out on the dance floor. And this was no different.
74. We all rapped along…….
75. Backstage, underage, adolescent, How ya doin', fine, she replied, I sighed, I like to do the wild thing, Action took place, Kinda wet, don't forget, The J, the I, the M, the M, the Y, why'all, I need a body bag
76. One more time for Bobby, “Don’t Be Cruel” ……the crowd truly LOVES Bobby. He’s got to be the most loved of N.E., I am not sure I get it, must be the bad boy thing.
77. But don’t get me wrong, was so cool seeing him live and wow did he sound great.
78. More Johnny…..”Can You Stand The Rain.” WOW
79. Did I mention how good the dancing was?
80. We knew we couldn’t get out of there without “Poison!” Everyone on their feet!
81. I was at the bar shake shakin' takin' 'em off, And that night I played the wall, Checkin' out the fellas the highs the lows, Keepin' one eye open still clockin' 'em, Still one particular girl that stood out from the rest, Poison as can be how how is she, Michael me and see and I'm runnin' the show, Bell Biv DeVoe ha-ha ha-ha, Now you know you're Slick blow
82. And the crowd sings along…..
83. It's driving me out of my mind- (Ricky), That's why it's hard for me to find- (Crowd), Can't get it outta my head- (Ricky), Miss her, kiss her, love her, wrong move you're dead- (Crowd)
84. Finished it off with “N.E. Heartbreak” with Johnny going off once again.
85. What an amazing performance by all six members!
86. What an amazing show!
87. GUY killed it!
88. Keith killed it!
89. N.E. killed it!
90. Go see them all if you get a chance!
-One Love
Todd