Tag: jerrycantrellphotos

February 1st, 2025 – Starland Ballroom, Sayreville NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

The parking lot was already full prior to doors opening at Starland Ballroom on a very cold winter night in NJ. Guitar legend, Jerry Cantrell has embarked on his 2025 solo “I want Blood” North American tour in support of his latest album by the same name. This was his second show on the tour so fans were in high anticipation on what was to come.

The night kicked off with a dynamic performance by American rock band Filter. Richard Patrick, former Nine Inch Nails guitarist, brought intense vocals as he performed hit single “Hey Man Nice Shot”. They sounded great but the stage was very dark so it took away from fully being able to engage with the audience. They ended on a brighter side with “Take a Picture,” as fans sang along.

Jerry Cantrell and his band took the stage shortly after. The venue was completely packed, nobody was going anywhere for the next 2 hours and 15 minutes as Cantrell and his band set off to perform a 17-song set list. Throughout the set, Cantrell masterfully wove together tracks from his solo projects and Alice in Chains classics including “Them Bones”, “Down in a Hole” and “Would?”.

Fans were in for a treat when Cantrell and backing vocalist Greg Puciato performed “Hate to Feel”, a classic that has not been performed live in more than three decades. The last time Alice In Chains themselves played it to a crowd was November 4, 1993 in Sydney, Australia.

The band accompanying Cantrell played a crucial role in bringing the songs to life. Zach Throne on guitar, Eliot Lorango on Bass and Roy Mayorga on drums provided a solid foundation, allowing Cantrell’s guitar and vocals to shine. The chemistry among the musicians was evident, contributing to the show’s dynamic energy.

With any rock show, new venue or the start of a tour, there can be obstacles and “hiccups in the road”. This one in particular has fans a bit irate for the beginning part of the show as there was obvious sound issues. After each song, fans shouted “Fix the mic” in hopes to get the problem fixed. It took some time for Cantrell and his crew to realize what was going on but problem was taken care of and fans were grateful that they could enjoy Cantrell’s vocals for the rest of the show.

The evening culminated with an encore featuring “Rooster,” leaving the crowd in a state of euphoria. The energy in the room was electric, a testament to Cantrell’s enduring impact on the rock scene.

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

March 12, 2023 – The Wellmont Theatre, Montclair NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

Nine time Grammy Award nominated Jerry Cantrell stopped by the Wellmont Theater in Montclair NJ to greet his adoring fans in support of his latest solo release, “Brighten”.

Cantrell was accompanied by Seattle-based Thunderpussy as his opening act. The all female band boasts a unique rock sound which delivers the powerful all-female presence of Molly Sides (vocals), Whitney Petty* (guitar), Leah Julius (bass), and Lindsey Elias (drums).

Although I have been an Alice In Chains (AIC) fan for some time, this was only my second time seeing Jerry Cantrell perform. While “in tune” and musically well present in the 90’s, I wasn’t in this profession until now, so didn’t previously have the opportunity to see Layne Staley (late front man of AIC). I only experienced Jerry live with new AIC vocalist William Duvall which to me (if I close my eyes and absorb phonically) was the next best thing.

Released in 2021, and having kept fans in anticipation for nineteen years, Cantrell’s Brighten is the third solo album by the acclaimed Alice In Chains founder, guitarist and vocalist. Cantrell and his band boarded the smokey and dimly lit stage to a roaring crowd itching to catch a more close up, intimate experience of Cantrell at the moderately sized, yet iconic, and to some (like myself)… somewhat nostalgic venue.

Jerry opened with “Atone” which is the first single released from Brighten and in a recent interview with SiriusXM, Cantrell spoke of how many of his songs were born from long periods of crafting. “The riff to Atone; I mean I literally had it for years – couldn’t finish it. It comes when it comes, I’ve learned to not discard things.” This potentially explains the nineteen years of anticipation!

While the stage and lighting was more dimly lit than preferred for the photographers, it set the cool vibe for the evening which was well- welcomed by the crowded house. I was a little concerned that people may be there just to hear AIC songs but was pleased to witness the audience enjoying what Jerry brought to the stage and what he effectively delivered in his performance.

Jerry sounded great and his supporting cast were exceptionally talented and delivered a strong night of excellent Rock & Roll!

Jerry Cantrell (vocals/guitar), Tyler Bates (guitar), Greg Puciato (vocals), Gil Sharone (drums), George Adrian (bass), Michael Rozon (pedal steel) & Jason Achilles (keys).