June 28, 2026 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Bill Raymond

Three Generations Of Loud: Godsmack, Stone Temple Pilots & Dorothy Fire Up PNC Bank Arts Center

The summer heat was out in full force at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, New Jersey, on June 28, 2026. Bringing their highly publicized Rise Of Rock tour to a packed pavilion and a packed hill of lawn seats, Godsmack engineered a massive lineup featuring Stone Temple Pilots and Dorothy for a night that felt like a complete timeline of rock radio dominance.

Kicking things off as the sun began to dip was Dorothy, led by the powerhouse presence of Dorothy Martin. She and her exceptionally tight backing band, featuring New Jersey’s own Nick Perri, delivered a gritty, blues-infused set that woke up the early-arriving crowd immediately. Her vocals were flawless, cutting cleanly through the outdoor air on staples like “Raise Hell” and newer material like “Elevate.” It was a high-octane performance that set an incredibly high bar for the rest of the evening.

Following a brief intermission, grunge royalty Stone Temple Pilots took the stage to an absolute roar from the crowd. The DeLeo brothers, Dean on guitar and Robert on bass, alongside drummer Eric Kretz, remain a perfectly oiled machine, locking into those classic 90s grooves with ease. Frontman Jeff Gutt has truly made the role his own over the last several years, honoring the late Scott Weiland’s legacy while injecting his own fierce energy into the performance. The crowd was a unified choir for “Vasoline” and “Interstate Love Song,” and by the time they closed with a bruising version of “Sex Type Thing,” the venue floor was officially bouncing.

When the massive banner dropped for Godsmack, the energy inside PNC Bank Arts Center shifted into pure, unadulterated arena-rock spectacle. Opening their set with “When Legends Rise,” frontman Sully Erna made it clear that the band was not holding anything back. Backed by bassist Robbie Merrill, guitarist Sam Koltun, and Dream Theater drummer Mike Mangini, the band’s down-tuned, driving rhythms filled the open-air pavilion with a crushing wall of sound.

Sully remains one of the best crowd directors in the business, easily orchestrating massive mosh pits in the general admission section and demanding maximum volume from the lawn. The setlist was an absolute clinic in hard rock hits, moving seamlessly from early-career staples like “Awake” to the soaring, melodic rock of their more recent material.

A definitive highlight of the night arrived late in the set with the return of “Batalla de los Tambores,” the legendary dual-drum solo duel between Erna and Mangini that left the audience breathless. They closed the evening by cranking the intensity to ten for a blistering, pyro-fueled performance of “I Stand Alone.” It was a loud, triumphant, and visually spectacular reminder that even if their studio days are behind them, Godsmack 2.0 remains a dominant force on the live stage.

For more info please visit http://www.godsmack.com

June 26, 2026 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Bill Raymond

Powerhouse Voices Unite As Evanescence And Spiritbox Storm New Jersey

The summer air at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, New Jersey, is usually home to lighter rock radio bands, but on June 26, 2026, the open-air amphitheater became a showcase for some of the heaviest and most dynamic voices in modern music. On this stop of their highly anticipated tour, Evanescence brought along an incredible supporting lineup of Spiritbox and Nova Twins, resulting in a bill that felt less like a nostalgia trip and more like a celebration of where heavy rock is heading.

London’s Nova Twins kicked off the evening with a staggering display of genre-fluid punk energy. Guitarist Amy Love and bassist Georgia South possess a rare chemistry, utilizing a complex array of effects pedals to evoke a glitchy, urban electronic texture without sacrificing the raw punch of a live rock band. Tracks like “Antagonist” and “Choose Your Fighter” immediately shook the early arrivals out of their seats.

Following them, progressive metal juggernauts Spiritbox delivered a masterclass in modern tech-metal precision. Frontwoman Courtney LaPlante shifted seamlessly between ethereal, pristine melodies and bone-rattling guttural growls on standout tracks “Circle With Me” and “Jaded.” Backed by Mike Stringer’s meticulously down-tuned guitar, the band created a suffocatingly heavy wall of sound that felt completely tailored for an expansive amphitheater, sending a massive ripple of energy all the way back into the lawn.

When Evanescence took the stage, it was immediately clear that Amy Lee’s artistic vision remains as vital as ever. Rather than leaning strictly on the laurels of their multi-platinum history, the band heavily featured cuts from their new studio album, Sanctuary, seamlessly weaving recent tracks like “Who Will You Follow?” alongside the definitive anthems that shaped the early 2000s alternative landscape.

Lee herself is an absolute force of nature. Sitting at the grand piano for a haunting rendition of “Lithium” or commanding the lip of the stage during “Going Under,” her operatic vocal range possesses the same pristine, crystal-clear power it did decades ago. The dual-guitar framework of Troy McLawhorn and Tim McCord gave the classic arrangements a contemporary, aggressive edge that sounded incredibly vast in the open-air venue.

A spectacular collaborative highlight arrived late in the evening when Courtney LaPlante and the Nova Twins returned to the stage, joining Lee for a triumphant rendition of “Fight Like a Girl.” The sheer vocal and instrumental power of the combined forces felt like the emotional apex of the night. After a breathtaking crowd sing-along during “My Immortal,” the band closed the evening with a performance of “Wide Open Heart,” solidifying Evanescence’s legacy not just as survivors of a bygone era, but as enduring icons of symphonic rock.

For more info please visit http://www.evanescence.com

June 22, 2026 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

Despite threatening skies, steady rain, and the looming possibility of severe storms, fans packed the lawn and filled the seats at PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, New Jersey. The weather may have dampened the grounds, but it certainly didn’t dampen spirits. 

As the crowd waited for Sammy Hagar’s Best of All Worlds Tour, opening act Rick Springfield took the stage and immediately reminded everyone why he has remained a beloved performer for more than four decades. At 76 years old, Springfield delivered a performance that would put artists half his age to shame. From the moment he stepped on stage, he was in constant motion—running, interacting with the audience, and commanding the stage with seemingly endless energy. His vocals were strong, his smile never faded, and his genuine appreciation for the audience shined through all night. 

Springfield’s connection with his fans was on full display as he made his way through the audience, stopping for selfies, hugs, and a few heart-melting moments that left many longtime fans fantasies come true. The moment that sent the crowd into a frenzy came near the end of his set when Springfield returned to the stage shirtless to perform his signature hit, “Jessie’s Girl.” Cheers erupted, phones flew into the air, and fans sang every word at the top of their lungs. Springfield delivered hit after hit and reminded everyone why he’s remained a fan favorite for so many years.

The Red Rocker proved that at 78 years old, he still possesses the voice, charisma, and stage presence that have made him a rock icon for decades. Whether Sammy Hagar was revisiting solo hits, Montrose classics, or fan-favorite Van Halen anthems, he performed each song with the same enthusiasm as if it were the first time. Backed by an incredible band featuring Michael Anthony, Joe Satriani, Kenny Aronoff, and Nathan Mercadothe, musicianship throughout the evening was nothing short of spectacular, but it was Hagar’s connection with the audience that truly stood out. Between songs, he shared stories, laughed with the crowd, and made everyone feel like they were part of something special.

One thing that never ceases to amaze me every time I see Sammy Hagar perform is how much he genuinely appreciates his fans. Throughout the show, hats, T-shirts, jerseys, flags, just about anything fans could get to the stage, were handed or tossed his way, and somehow he managed to sign nearly every item without missing a beat. Whether he was singing, interacting with the band, or working the crowd, he always made time for the people who came to see him.

Another trademark of a Sammy Hagar show is that it feels more like a giant party than a concert. Known for his love of tequila, Sammy happily shares that spirit with the audience, often pouring shots for lucky fans and creating unforgettable moments throughout the night. His infectious energy and fun-loving personality make everyone feel like they’re part of the celebration, and by the end of the night, it’s clear that nobody throws a rock and roll party quite like the Red Rocker.

For more info please visit http://www.redrocker.com

June 5, 2026 – The Stone Pony, Asbury Park NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

Ringmaster /ˈriNGˌmastər/: a master of ceremonies who directs performances and maintains the crowds excitement.

David Lee Roth the Ringmaster, Master of Ceremonies, and one of the most iconic frontmen of all time strutted his stuff in Asbury Park, NJ Friday night through a beautiful sunsetted evening to a large, excited and anticipatory crowd.

The Stone Pony Summer Stage has hosted countless legends over the years, but on this June night in Asbury Park, it felt like the boardwalk belonged to David. The venue’s open-air setting, with the ocean breeze drifting in from the beach, was the perfect backdrop for a performer whose entire career has been built on excess, swagger, and spectacle.

Last time I saw DLR was back in the early 90’s when he embarked on his solo career. Being that it’s been well over three decades and as a Van Halen fan, I was excited to see him and hear the songs, rapid drum beats, and guitar riffs no matter who was playing.

Roth arrived with the confidence of a man who has spent decades commanding arenas. Whatever the years have taken from his vocal range, he compensated for with sheer personality. He stalked the stage, threw karate-kick poses, mugged for the crowd, and worked the audience like a veteran showman who knows that half the battle is making every fan feel involved.

“Diamond Dave” lit up the stage (literally) in his sequins studded silver jacket, black & white barber pole tight pants and a black and red sequins vest. The lights reflected on Roth like a disco ball all evening which was appropriately symbolic to the “Diamond Dave” nickname. He delivered exactly what fans came to see: a celebration of the music, attitude, and larger-than-life personality that helped make Van Halen one of rock’s greatest live acts.

At 71, Roth may not possess the same vocal range that defined his heyday, but what remains completely intact is his charisma. From the moment he strutted onstage, flashing his trademark grin and commanding the crowd with effortless confidence, “Diamond Dave” reminded everyone why he became one of rock’s most recognizable frontmen.

Opening with the unmistakable riffs of “Panama,” Roth immediately had the packed Summer Stage crowd singing every word. The audience, spanning multiple generations of fans, responded with the same enthusiasm one might expect from a Van Halen arena show decades ago. Supported by a stellar band featuring Al Estrada on guitar, Sean McNabb on bass, Francisco Velentino on drums, and a powerful four-member vocal section, the Van Halen material was executed with precision, energy, and undeniable passion.

The set leaned heavily into the band’s classic catalog, with highlights including a thunderous “Romeo Delight,” the groove-heavy “Drop Dead Legs,” and an energetic performance of “Beautiful Girls” that perfectly matched the beach-town atmosphere. A blues jam midway through the show allowed Roth’s backing band to showcase their considerable musicianship while giving the frontman room to work the stage and engage the crowd.

This was not a nostalgia act pretending time has stood still. Roth’s voice is no longer the untamed instrument heard on the original records, and there were moments when the crowd effectively became the lead singer. Yet in a strange way, that only reinforced the communal spirit of the night: thousands of fans shouting the choruses together while “Diamond Dave” played ringmaster. Roth’s humor, storytelling, and spontaneous banter kept the performance lively and unpredictable. Whether cracking jokes between songs or leading crowd singalongs, he remained the focal point of the evening.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the show was Roth’s relentless energy. He covered every inch of the stage, dancing, kicking, and posing for fans as if time had barely touched him. The crowd responded in kind, turning the Summer Stage into one giant celebration of classic rock.

As a pure concert experience, the show succeeded; less because it recreated 1984 but more because it celebrated the larger-than-life character David Lee Roth has always been. The performance was loud, loose, funny, occasionally chaotic, and undeniably entertaining. For longtime fans, the Stone Pony show felt like a summer reunion with one of hard rock’s greatest frontmen. For younger concertgoers, it was a reminder that before social media influencers and viral personalities, there was “Diamond Dave”: part singer, part comedian, part carnival barker, and one of the last true rock-star originals.

For more info, please visit http://www.davidleeroth.com

May 5, 2026 – Starland Ballroom, Sayreville NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

Walking into Starland Ballroom to photograph Tom Keifer Band felt surreal. Growing up, I had Cinderella posters hanging on my bedroom walls, and like so many fans of that era, his voice became the soundtrack to a generation of rock and roll. Fast forward years later, standing in the photo pit with a camera in my hands instead of a concert ticket, it was one of those full-circle moments that truly hits you.

Hitting the stage first was John Corabi & Friends who delivered a high-energy set packed with raw rock and roll attitude. Corabi, best known for his time with Mötley Crüe & The Dead Daisies brought his signature gritty vocals and larger-than-life personality to the room, instantly connecting with the crowd. The chemistry on stage was undeniable, fueled by an all-star lineup featuring Jeremy Asbrock (Ace Frehley, Gene Simmons), Troy Luccketta (Tesla), Paul Taylor (Winger) & Michael Devin (Whitesnake, The Dead Daisies). The band sounded tight, loud, and full of classic rock swagger, reminding everyone why these musicians have stood the test of time. There was a real sense of camaraderie throughout the performance, with each member clearly feeding off one another’s energy while the crowd responded with nonstop enthusiasm.

The second Keifer stepped onto the stage dressed in all black with a long coat and knee high platform boots, the energy in the room completely shifted. His stage presence is still magnetic – gritty, intense, and effortlessly commanding. And then there’s that signature raspy voice. Time may pass, but that unmistakable sound still cuts through the room with the same raw emotion and bluesy edge that made songs like “Nobody’s Fool” and “Gypsy Road” legendary in the first place. It wasn’t just nostalgia carrying the night either, he genuinely still delivers.

There were a few sound issues throughout the night, most noticeably during “Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone),” but Keifer handled it like the seasoned professional he is. He powered through the technical hiccups without missing a beat and even kept the crowd laughing by joking about it during the show. If anything, it made the performance feel even more real and reminded everyone why live music is unpredictable in the best way.

The setlist was the perfect mix of Cinderella classics and newer material, giving longtime fans exactly what they came for while still keeping the show feeling fresh. The crowd sang every word back to him, especially during songs like “Nobody’s Fool,” “Gypsy Road” & “Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone)” turning Starland Ballroom into one massive singalong filled with pure nostalgia. The band surrounding him was equally incredible, bringing power and precision to every song while feeding off the crowd’s energy all night long. There was a chemistry on stage that made the performance feel authentic and alive rather than simply recreating old hits.

For longtime Cinderella fans, this show was more than a concert, it was a reminder of why that music still connects decades later. Capturing these moments through my lens was something I never could have imagined back when those posters were hanging on my wall. Some nights stay with you long after the lights come up, and this was absolutely one of them.

For more info please visit: http://www.tomkeiferband.com

Setlist

1. Night Songs
2. All Amped Up
3. Heartbreak Station
4. Bad Seamstress Blues/Fallin’ Apart at the Seams
5. The Death of Me
6. Coming Home
7. Nobody’s Fool
8. Solid Ground
9. The More Things Change
10. Somebody Save Me
11. The Last Mile
12. Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone)
13. Shake Me
14. Shelter Me
15. Tumbling Dice (ENCORE)
16. Gypsy Road (ENCORE)

April 4, 2026 – The Met, Philadelphia PA

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

Seeing Robert Plant live at The Met in Philadelphia on April 4th on his “Spring Fever” tour was nothing short of a spiritual experience. From the moment he stepped on stage, there was a calm presence that held the entire room in awe. Rock’s Golden God completely captivated every single person in the theater. You could feel it instantly as if there were an electric shift in the room. We were all genuinely starstruck, hanging onto every note and every movement.

As the iconic voice of Led Zeppelin, Plant’s influence on rock and roll is immeasurable. His vocals, mystique and his poetic lyricism set a standard that few have ever come close to matching. When he hits those unmistakable “Robert Plant” notes, chills rippled through the crowed, followed by cheers, tears and singalongs that united everyone in the room. After all these years, his voice is still remarkably intact. He was so present and poured his entire soul into each song. Every note felt intentional and deep.

Robert Plant performed as part of a true ensemble rather than a traditional frontman-led act. His band Saving Grace leans into folk, blues, and Americana influences with a refined, organic sound. The band consists of drummer Oli Jefferson, guitarist Tony Kelsey, multi-instrumentalist and backing vocalist Matt Worley, and cellist Barney Morse-Brown. Each played an essential role in shaping the night’s sound. What stood out most was Plant’s willingness to gracefully step aside, often moving to the rear or side of the unlit stage allowing his bandmates to take center stage.

Suzi Dian was a standout presence throughout the night, bringing a haunting, ethereal quality to every performance. Her voice blended beautifully with Robert Plant, adding depth and warmth while also holding its own in powerful solo moments. She carried a quiet confidence on stage, captivating the audience with both her vocal control and emotional delivery.

The setlist was a mix of songs from the 2025 Saving Grace album, such as “Higher Rock” and “As I Roved Out,” and others and also featured rare and drastically rearranged Led Zeppelin tracks such as “Ramble On,” “Four Sticks,” and “The Rain Song”. Having looked at the setlists from the previous shows, I was fully expecting the encore to be “Everybody’s Song.” In addition, to our surprise, Robert Plant treated us to “Going to California,” and the theater instantly erupted. You could hear waves of “oh my God” and “unreal” ripple through the crowd. The excitement was almost uncontrollable. Fans began singing along, at times even overpowering his voice. I heard some people afterward say it took away from the experience of hearing the song performed live so intimately, but to me, it felt completely genuine as an outpouring of emotion from fans who simply couldn’t contain what the moment meant to them.

For those who grew up in the ’70s, the night felt especially powerful as hearing Robert Plant live transported you right back to the golden age of Rock and Roll. It was emotional, almost surreal to witness a rock legend still performing at such a high level. There are no real words for the level of talent we’ve been privileged to experience for all these years. Listening to Robert Plant sing is like hearing poetry come to life. A magnetic performer, a poetic mind, and a true warrior on both his musical and life journey. A truly magical night.

For more info, please visit http://www.robertplant.com

April 2, 2026 – Count Basie Center for the Arts, Red Bank NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

Thursday’s Collective Soul show at the Count Basie was a reminder of why the Georgia rockers remain a potent live act three decades in.  As usual, the intimate ornate Basie proved the perfect setting for a band that balances radio-ready hooks with taut, guitar-driven dynamics.

Visually, even though the band has aged, they haven’t lost their style, with each member showcasing a unique, clean, and well thought through appearance. It was nice to see compared to other bands of similar age who opt for a simpler, less thought out look. Phonically, their style has been thought of as too melodic for grunge, yet too heavy for pop, resulting in the band fitting nicely into their own unique category of audio goodness.

The band opened strong, diving into an energetic run of material that had the crowd singing along from the first chord. Opening with “Counting the Days”, the audience rose to their feet and didn’t sit back down for pretty much the entire show. Frontman Ed Roland’s voice was in remarkably good shape, alternating between gritty power and warmer, melodic phrasing. Band members Dean Roland on rhythm guitar, Will Turpin on bass, Johnny Rabb on drums and lead guitarist Jesse Triplett were crisp; solos were restrained but effective, serving the songs rather than showing off.

Five songs in,“Shine” landed like a homecoming anthem, full-throated and stadium-sized even in the theater’s cozy acoustics. Newer material sat comfortably beside the classics. The mid-set slowed to a reflective stretch – a couple of lesser-known album cuts and an acoustic-leaning moment gave the room a softer, more intimate feel before the band ramped back up. The rhythm section locked in tightly throughout; the low end was punchy without ever muddying the mix.

Sound at the Basie that night was clean and well-balanced. Vocals cut through clearly, and the guitars retained a satisfying bite without overwhelming the stage. Lighting was tasteful rather than flashy, using warm washes and occasional strobes to accentuate climactic moments – appropriate for a band whose songs often build from simmer to release.

The audience seemed to mostly consist of longtime fans who knew every lyric but was also mixed with attendees who seem to have been drawn to the singles that still get airplay. Sing-alongs were constant and enthusiastic, especially on the big hits. The Basie’s acoustics and sightlines made the crowd feel engaged without ever getting chaotic — it was a communal, celebratory vibe with fans filling into the isles and dancing.

New Jersey is known for their world-famous rocker residents and whenever you see live music here, especially at the Jersey Shore (Red Bank, Asbury Park, etc.), you never know who might pop by.  So a nice surprise and a highlight of the evening was when David Byan (of Bon Jovi fame) was introduced by Roland and came on stage and joined on keyboards to “December”. “Shine” and “December” were high points, eliciting the loudest responses and sing-along choruses while a quieter, acoustic passage mid-set showcased the band’s songwriting depth and gave Roland room for a storytelling moment between songs.

The encore closed with an up-tempo, rendition of “Run” and included an extended acoustic closing which was a satisfying finish that sent the crowd out buoyant and smiling.

Collective Soul’s night at the Count Basie delivered a solid, well-executed show: tight musicianship, memorable melodies, and an audience that clearly appreciated hearing the songs live. For fans of ’90s alt-rock and anyone who enjoys well-crafted, guitar-forward songs, it was a rewarding two-hour trip down familiar – and still vital – territory.

For more info please visit http://www.collectivesoul.com

March 8, 2026 – Count Basie Center for the Arts, Red Bank NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

On Sunday, March 8, 2026, blues-rock virtuoso Joe Bonamassa delivered a masterclass in guitar tone and musical storytelling at the Count Basie Center for the Arts, turning the historic theater into a cathedral of blues for a sold-out crowd along the Jersey Shore.

We’ve shot and reviewed Joe Bonamassa numerous times and were grateful he chose our photo (@coucouphotography) to use as the promotional material for this event. So naturally we were excited and honored to receive our photo pass and review ticket for yet another opportunity to capture one of the greatest blues/rock guitarists of all time .  

From the moment the lights dimmed and Bonamassa walked onstage—suited sharply and armed with one of his many vintage guitars—the audience knew they were in the hands of a seasoned blues craftsman. Bonamassa was backed by a very tight and polished band featuring Calvin Turner on bass, Lamar Carter on drums, Josh Smith on guitar, new-comer Lachy Doley on keys and complemented with the powerful and harmonic talents of backup singers Danielle DeAndrea & Jade MacRae.

Bonamassa opened with “Break Through”, a fiery instrumental groove that quickly showcased the signature mix of precision and emotion that has made him one of modern blues’ most respected guitarists. Along with “Break Through”, Bonamassa showcased a lot of newer material earlier in the set which blended seamlessly with classic blues covers and some fan favorites. Bonamassa’s playing moved effortlessly between scorching solos and restrained, soulful phrasing. Each guitar change—of which there were many throughout the night—brought subtle tonal shifts, from biting Chicago-style blues to thick, overdriven British blues-rock.

Highlights of the evening included a slow-burning rendition of “Twenty-Four Hour Blues,” where Bonamassa stretched the song into an extended jam filled with expressive bends and fluid runs. Another standout was the gritty “ Drive Past The Exit Sign” which drew cheers from the crowd as the band locked into a deep groove. Songs like these demonstrated his deep respect for blues history while still feeling fresh and electrifying.

The atmosphere inside the Basie Center was intimate and the setting allowed fans to fully appreciate the nuance of his playing. The historic theater—originally opened in 1926 and later renamed in honor of jazz legendCount Basie—provided excellent acoustics, making every note ring clearly throughout the room.

The crowd, a mix of old and some young were on their feet in applause at the end of every song and dancing in the isles during the soulful shuffles and funk-tinged rhythms. One of the most striking observations of the night was Joe Bonamassa’s rare ability to get an older theater crowd out of their seats and dancing—no small feat for a seated venue like the Count Basie Center for the Arts. Blues shows often attract devoted listeners who prefer to sit back and absorb the music, but Bonamassa’s groove-heavy arrangements and dynamic stage presence slowly transformed the room from a quiet listening environment into something closer to a roadhouse party.

Bonamassa’s band was equally impressive. Doley on keys added punch and soul, particularly on the funk-tinged numbers, while the rhythm section provided a solid foundation that allowed Bonamassa to stretch out during improvisational passages. The chemistry onstage felt effortless, the mark of musicians who have spent countless nights touring together.

Midway through the show, Bonamassa addressed the audience with his characteristic dry humor, thanking the Red Bank crowd and reminiscing about his long touring history in New Jersey and particularly at the Count Basie Theater having opened for B.B. King there in his more formative years. The crowd responded with enthusiastic applause, clearly aware they were witnessing a guitarist at the peak of his powers.

As the set moved toward its finale, Bonamassa leaned into heavier blues-rock territory with extended solos that brought the audience to its feet. The encore delivered one final surge of energy, closing the night the with famed “Sloe Gin” showcasing a triumphant blend of soulful blues and soaring guitar work.

By the time the house lights came up, it was clear that Bonamassa had delivered exactly what his fans came for: an evening of world-class musicianship rooted in the traditions of the blues but performed with modern power and precision. For the crowd gathered in Red Bank, it wasn’t just a concert—it was a reminder that the blues are alive, evolving, and capable of filling a theater with electricity.

Joe Bonamassa’s ability to connect across generations is one of the defining aspects of his live performances. While many in the crowd grew up on classic blues and rock, his blend of vintage tone, modern production, and high-energy arrangements kept the show from feeling like a nostalgia act. Instead, the performance felt alive and communal—less like a formal theater concert and more like a shared celebration of blues music.

If Sunday night proved anything, it’s that Joe Bonamassa remains one of the most formidable live guitarists of his generation—and the historic stage of the Count Basie Center for the Arts was the perfect place to witness it.

For more info please visit: http://www.jbonamassa.com

December 13, 2025 – Ovation Hall, Atlantic City NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

On a winter Saturday evening in Atlantic City, Bush delivered an amazing performance, wrapping up their 2025 “Loaded: The Greatest Hits Tour” stopping at Ovation Hall with a set that satisfied long-time fans like myself. They were joined by special guest Soul Asylum, and the set list featured classic hits combined with new songs from their album “I Beat Loneliness”.

The approaching first winter storm of the season didn’t deter us from trekking down the Garden State Parkway knowing we would be driving home late night in a wintery snowy, slushy mess as we knew it would be a show we didn’t want to miss.

The evening opened up with a very impressive female act from LA called, DeathbyRomy.  I loved their sound and stage presence and how they incorporate haunting vocals and vulnerable, raw lyrics into their heavy beats and textures. Romy Maxine Flores, known professionally as DeathbyRomy possess a genre-bending mix of Alternative Pop, Dark Pop, and Industrial, blending catchy melodies with heavy trap, metal, and electronic beats for a cinematic, gothic sound often called “heavy pop,” influenced by her LA upbringing and dark aesthetic.  Definitely check them out if you see them touring or popping up in your home-town.

Following DeathbyRomy was Soul Asylum. I’ve seen them a few times before. This particular appearance set the stage well for the genre of music and entertainment we were about to embark on. Soul Asylum delivered a compact but spirited opening set that energized the crowd and reminded everyone why they’ve remained a beloved act in alternative rock. Leaning into a blend of classics and recent material, the band kicked things off with punchy, gritty riffs that had fans nodding and cheering early on. “Runaway Train” drew one of the biggest reactions, with many in the audience singing along, while other selections balanced nostalgia with a sense of ongoing vitality. Frontman Dave Pirner’s distinctive, raspy voice cut through with confidence, and even in a shorter set typical for an opener, they managed to spotlight both crowd favorites and deeper cuts from their catalog.

From the moment Gavin Rossdale and his bandmates stepped onstage, the room buzzed with recognition and excitement. While I expected an uneven balance of gender due to his popularity with female fans, the crowd was a nice, diverse mix of Gen-Xers who were all there to relive the alt-rock soundtrack of their youth. Despite Bush’s arena-tour pedigree, the venue’s acoustics and sightlines helped make the experience feel intimate and I enjoy experiencing Bush within smaller venues.

Having seen and reviewed Bush a few times before, I knew what to expect from his performance. Rossdale hasn’t lost his energy dancing and bouncing around stage and taking time to engage with his fans while singing.  Fans were spirited and sang along with just about every song. A fan favorite moment you can expect from any of Bush’s concerts is when Gavin ventures out into the crowd, greeting adoring fans and posing for some selfies as he passes through.

Bush delivered a robust 18-song set that walked through their career while spotlighting current material. Sounding confident and cohesive, the band balanced fierce rock with slower, emotive moments. 

Standout tracks included the opener, “Everything Zen” which emoted raw 90’s energy setting a powerful tone for the evening.  “Bullet Holes” and “Machinehead” followed; riff heavy and punchy these tracks kept the momentum strong. The evening continued with Rossdale engaging with fans throughout making eye contact, blowing kisses to adoring fans, and moving from one side of the stage to the other.  “Glycerine” appeared mid set ensuring the energy stayed high as Bush continued to deliver the favorites. 

Rossdale’s voice carried the familiar growl that’s defined Bush for decades, and even in the quieter moments, he connected emotionally with the audience. While some recent performances on this tour have drawn mixed comments about vocal consistency or reliance on backing tracks, at Ovation Hall his delivery felt solid and earnest. The rhythm section and guitar work were tight. Chris Traynor on lead guitar, Corey Britz on bass and Nik Hughes on drums underpinned each song with the grunge and post-grunge punch fans expect. The transitions between older classics and new tracks felt natural, affirming that Bush still thrives as a live act more than 30 years into their career.

When the encore part of the evening arrived, Bush closed with “Swallowed”, “More Than Machines”, and “Comedown”. The vibe at Ovation Hall the entire evening was one of community — a cross-generational crowd united by the music. Calls of beloved choruses echoed through the venue, and there was a genuine warmth in the air as Rossdale closed the evening and acknowledged the fans’ loyalty throughout the decades.

Bush’s December 13, 2025 performance at Ovation Hall was an engaging and spirited rock show. It honored their legacy without feeling like a simple nostalgia act, offering energy, musicianship, and a setlist that delivered both timeless hits and contemporary offerings. Whether you came for the memories or to make new ones, the night proved that Bush still has plenty of musical firepower left to share.

For more info please visit: http://www.bushofficial.com http://www.soulasylum.com http://www.deathbyromy.com