July 29th 2023 – PNC Arts Center, Holmdel NJ
Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry
An Explosive Night of Rock and Emotion!
On a pulsating night filled with electric energy (literally… as micro bursts of heavy winds, thunder & lightening erupted just prior to the performance), two titans of the rock world, Staind and Godsmack, took the stage at the PNC Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ. The concert was a riveting blend of hard-hitting rock anthems and heartfelt ballads, proving that both bands have not lost their touch in delivering an unforgettable live experience.
Opening the night was DJ “Mix Master Mike” of Beastie Boys fame who got the crowd jumping and energized for the show.
Then after a short delay due to weather and as the stage lights flickered, Staind with lead singer Aaron Lewis emerged, armed with his acoustic guitar, ready to deliver an emotionally charged set. Staind’s music has always been known for its introspective lyrics and haunting melodies, and tonight was no different. As he strummed his guitar and opened his mouth to sing, an aura of authenticity and vulnerability enveloped the venue, captivating us all. It was evident that Lewis was not just performing for us; he was sharing his soul with the audience.
His vocal range was nothing short of extraordinary, seamlessly shifting from tender, melodic verses to powerful and commanding choruses. Each note was executed with precision and finesse, while his expressive vibrato added a captivating touch to every lyric. It felt as if every word carried its own weight, and he skillfully conveyed the emotions behind each song, making them resonate deeply with the audience. I have always loved Stand’s music and Aaron’s voice but listening to him live absolutely blew me away. I had the chills throughout multiple songs!
Opening with the haunting ballad “Outside,” Aaron Lewis’ soulful vocals filled the venue and captured the hearts of every single person in attendance. The band moved seamlessly through their discography, playing crowd favorites like “It’s Been Awhile,” “So Far Away,” and “Epiphany.” The emotional intensity was palpable as fans sang along, connecting with the poignant themes of love, loss, and self-reflection present in Staind’s music.
The standout Staind moment of the night came during “Something to Remind You,” where Aaron Lewis left the crowd stunned with his raw and vulnerable performance. The atmosphere became electric, as if providing our own micro burst, as thousands of voices harmonized, creating a spine-tingling experience that will be etched in the memories of all those present.
After a brief intermission, the crowd eagerly awaited the arrival of Godsmack, the Boston-based powerhouse known for their intense performances and thunderous sound. The band is celebrating 25 years together!
As the lights dimmed, the crowd erupted in cheers as their curtain dropped and the unmistakable growl of lead singer Sully Erna echoed through the venue, pyrotechnics and all. They kicked off the show with their hit “Cryin’ Like a Bitch,” setting the tone for a night full of raw energy. Throughout their set, Godsmack unleashed a barrage of their biggest hits, including “Awake,” “Speak,” and “Voodoo.” The band’s chemistry on stage was undeniable, with guitarist Tony Rombola shredding away and bassist Robbie Merrill keeping the rhythm tight. The highlight of their performance was undoubtedly the drum battle between Sully Erna and drummer Shannon Larkin. The two engaged in a mind-blowing drum duel that left the audience speechless and cheering for more.
Winding down the evening, Sully sat at the piano as he played in support of one of their many charities, The Scars Foundation; which benefits mental health awareness, reminding us “that we are all imperfectly perfect”.
The Staind & Godsmack concert was an unforgettable night of rock and emotion. Both bands showcased their immense talent and ability to connect with their audience on a profound level. Godsmack’s heavy-hitting performance set the stage on fire, while Staind’s emotionally charged set struck a chord with every heart in the room. The combination of these two powerhouse bands made for a concert experience that will resonate with fans for years to come.
For more info please visit: http://www.staindofficial.com http://www.godsmack.com www.scarsfoundation.org
