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Jerry Cantrell

Concert Reviews

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

Falling In Reverse

Concert Reviews

September 13, 2024 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

Falling In Reverse delivered an electrifying performance at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ on September 13, 2024. Their Popular Monstour II: World Domination tour has solidified the band’s reputation as a powerhouse in alternative rock.

The band was supported by an impressive lineup, including Black Veil Brides, Dance Gavin Dance, Tech N9ne, each delivering their own unique style, adding to the night’s overall dynamism. The entire experience was a sonic rollercoaster, with powerful visuals and synchronized lights amplifying the intensity of the performance.

First on was Jeris Johnson who appeared with his sword and shield ready to take control of the stage. Johnson is an innovative rock artist blending elements of alternative rock, metal, and electronic music. Known for his viral TikTok covers and collaborations, he brings a fresh, rebellious energy to the rock scene.

Tech N9ne came on stage with a whole other level of energy. He is a legendary rapper known for his rapid-fire flows, complex lyricism, and genre-blending style, mixing hip-hop with elements of rock, metal, and even opera. As co-founder of Strange Music, he’s become a major independent artist, gaining a loyal fanbase through relentless touring and innovative releases.

As the sun set, it was a perfect time to bring out Black Veil Brides. They delivered an electrifying performance captivating the crowd with their signature blend of heavy rock and gothic theatrics. As part of their co-headlining tour with Falling in Reverse, their set featured fan favorites like “In the End” and a powerful cover of Billy Idol’s “Rebel Yell,” which had the audience singing along in full force.

The band’s energy was contagious, with frontman Andy Biersack commanding the stage, engaging fans both new and old. The band also consists of Lonny Eagleton on bass, Jake Pitts on guitar and Christian Coma on drums. The production value, complete with dramatic lighting and sharp sound quality, made the evening feel larger-than-life. Fans left the venue with adrenaline still pumping, proving once again why Black Veil Brides are a standout in modern rock​

Dance Gavin Dance followed and the stage went a lot brighter for their set. They are a post-hardcore band known for their eclectic mix of progressive rock, screamo, and experimental sounds. Their unique combination of clean and unclean vocals, alongside intricate guitar work, has earned them a passionate fanbase and a distinct place in the alternative music scene.

Now it was time for what the fans came here for, they have been waiting over 3 1/2 hours for Falling In Reverse. From the moment they opened with “Watch the World Burn,” the crowd was hooked. Radke’s vocal range—shifting between rap, clean vocals, and screams—kept everyone on their toes, proving his versatility as a frontman. Radke commanded the stage with his signature blend of swagger, emotion, and pure intensity, making it clear why he’s become such a magnetic figure in rock. The band also includes Christian Thompson on guitar, Tyler Burgess on bass and Luke Holland on drums.

Songs like “Zombified” and “The Drug In Me Is You” were not just highlights but communal experiences, with fans passionately belting out every word alongside Radke. His stage presence was larger-than-life, blending charisma with an undeniable sense of vulnerability, especially when performing introspective tracks like “I’m Not a Vampire.” The tour features a visually stunning production with intense light shows and epic pyrotechnics which added to the entire experience.

For fans of post-hardcore, metalcore, and electronic rock, this show was a visceral display of genre fusion done right. For anyone who’s followed his tumultuous journey, this show was a celebration of resilience and evolution​. Wether you came for Radke’s raw vocal delivery or the band’s breakdown-heavy instrumentation, it was clear that Falling In Reverse remains at the forefront of alternative rock, constantly pushing the envelope with both sound and stagecraft​.

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

Cage The Elephant

Concert Reviews

August 24, 2024 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

Cage The Elephant is an American rock band formed in 2006 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Known for their energetic performances and genre-blending sound, the band has become a significant force in the alternative rock scene. Their “Neon Pill Tour” was eagerly anticipated and it lived up to the hype in every way.

I usually know all the photographers shooting the shows at PNC but tonight I felt out of place with 11 very young photographers with their point and shoot cameras. As we walked down to the front of the stage, I looked around and saw such a young crowd all eager for what the night had in store. I have to say that I went in very skeptical with an attitude that it would be a long night for me. In fact, It was the complete opposite. I didn’t want the evening to end and the night kept giving more and more with each opener.

To start the night, NJ welcomed Willow Avalon to the stage. Willow is an emerging artist known for her ethereal voice and genre-blending style. Despite being a relatively new artist, Willow Avalon has already made a significant impact in the indie music scene. She stunned with her long red hair, lipstick and boots to match and a beautiful country inspired white dress. She was sweet, gracious, amazing voice and gave off a very positive energy.

Next up was Bakar, a British singer-songwriter who has quickly become a distinctive voice in the modern music landscape. Emerging from the vibrant London music scene, Bakar blends elements of indie rock, punk, and hip-hop to create a sound that is both eclectic and uniquely his own. As a solo act, he demanded the stage and pleased his fans by performing his hits “Hell N Back” & “1st Time.”

The main opening act for Cage The Elephant was Young The Giant. They are an American rock band that formed in Irvine, California, in 2004. Their music blends elements of alternative rock, pop, and indie, creating a sound that is both accessible and deeply emotional. Lead singer Sameer Gadhia’s distinctive voice, combined with the band’s tight instrumentation, has earned them a reputation for delivering powerful live performances. The way they moved across the stage was like a dance and we were all here for it!

The band delivered a performance that could have easily been the main event. Songs like “Cough Syrup” and “My Body” were clear fan favorites, drawing cheers from the crowd and prompting massive sing-alongs. The lighting added another layer to the experience. The vibrant light show complemented the band’s music perfectly, enhancing the mood of each song without overpowering the performance. 

It was finally time for Cage The Elephant to step out. I was overhearing a lot of talk regarding the lead singer Matt Shultz having a broken foot and fans wondering how it would affect his performance. I am here to tell you that he “rolled” out ready to put on a show…and that he did. He was a force to be reckoned with even with his broken foot. His stage presence is electrifying, blending raw energy with a kind of controlled chaos that keeps the audience entranced.

The night was a rollercoaster of energy, with the band opening with the high-octane “Broken Boy,” instantly igniting the crowd. Throughout the set, Cage The Elephant seamlessly blended fan favorites like “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” and “Come a Little Closer”. It was high energy the entire night from Matt as well as Brad Shultz on guitar, Jared Champion on drums, Nick Bockrath on guitar and Daniel Tichenor on Bass.

As the night came to a close with the powerful “Come a Little Closer,” it was clear that Cage The Elephant had once again solidified their reputation as one of the most dynamic live bands in the world. The audience left the venue buzzing with the high that only a truly great concert can provide.

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

Avril Lavigne

Concert Reviews

August 23, 2024 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne performed at PNC Bank Arts Center on August 23rd, 2024 as part of “The Greatest Hits” Tour. Lavigne achieved great success as a teenager and paved the way for female-driven, punk-influenced pop music in the early 2000s. The “Pop Punk Queen” has been nominated for 8 grammy awards.

Starting off the night was pop-punk duo girlfriends, consisting of Travis Mills on vocals/guitar and Nick Gross on drums. They had a great look and even without knowing their songs, you still caught yourself wanting to sing along. A great way to start the night!

The crowd was ready to go as fellow Canadian pop-punk band Simple Plan opened with 50 minutes of pure fun. Formed in 1999, the band’s current lineup consists of Pierre Bouvier, Chuck Comeau, Jeff Stinco, and Sébastien Lefebvre. They jumped right into ‘I’d Do Anything“, the song that started it all. They performed with absolute joy and looked like teenagers performing with so much energy and liveliness. Beach balls filled the venue halfway through the set and had the fans a bit distracted but it didn’t stop them from singing to every word of their catchy hits including “Shut Up!”, “Welcome to My Life” and “Perfect”.

As I looked around anticipating Lavigne’s entrance, the venue was filled with fans wearing her signature clothing style – hot pink, skulls, plaid skirts, chunky black boots and white tank tops with neckties. Lavigne emerged on stage on a high platform with a pink skull flashing in the background, kicking off with her high-energy anthem “Girlfriend”. Her style has remained the same, fishnet stockings with high black boots with a short pleaded skirt and black hooded jacket covered with white and silver skulls.

Songs like “Complicated” and “Sk8er Boi” transported the audience back to the early 2000s. Prior to the show I read some reviews that stated that she lacked energy. Did she jump around with the energy that she had when she was 17 years old? She certainly did not. Maybe the fast paced Lavigne that we used to know wasn’t displayed but It was evident that her vocals were still very strong and she was very engaging with the audience.

Returning for her encore in a flowing white robe complete with zippers, studs and chunky white lace-up boots, she stood on a platform at the back of the stage as she sang “Head Above Water” and making her way down to the front of the stage ending with “I’m With You”. To have 17,000 fans on their feet singing along to your “Greatest Hits” is a testament to Lavigne’s long lasting career.

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

New Kids on the Block

Concert Reviews

August 9, 2024 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

On a hot and rainy summer night in NJ, New Kids on the Block still proved that they have “The Right Stuff” as they brought their Magic Summer 2024 Tour to PNC Bank Arts Center. The amphitheater was abuzz with electrifying nostalgia in anticipation of New Kids On The Block (NKOTB).

The crowd—spanning generations—was a vibrant mix of original fans and newer enthusiasts (as young as 5 years old), all eagerly awaiting the arrival of NKOTB. The stage was set with an impressive array of lights, pyrotechnics, and a massive, LED-studded backdrop that promised a night of visual and auditory spectacle.

The iconic boy band, now seasoned veterans of the music scene, delivered a performance that was both a testament to their enduring appeal and a celebration of their remarkable journey from the mid ’80s to the present. Formed in 1984 NKOTB are considered one of the first “boy bands” and paved the way for other successful boy groups with the likes of NSYNC and Backstreet Boys. The venue ebbed and flowed in a sea of fans (mostly women aka: “Blockheads”) all dressed in their 80’s inspired neon’s from pinks, yellows and greens, to “I love Donny” handmade t-shirts, florescent bandanas, and coordinated cheerleading outfits.  Adoring fans seemed to have the same excitement today as they had when NKOTB posters were hanging on their bedroom walls over 30 years ago. 

Long time friend of NKOTB and Philadelphia born, DJ Jazzy Jeff (DJJJ) kicked off the evening and riled up the crowd spinning his cool mixes including popular tracks “Uptown Funk” and “Don’t Stop Believin'”. He is best known for his collaboration with Will Smith on 80’s hits such as “Parents Just Don’t Understand” and “Nightmare on My Street.” 

Following DJJJ was former Laker Girl, American Idol judge, choreographer and Grammy winning pop singer, Paula Abdul. Abdul opened with her biggest hit “Straight Up” gliding across the stage on tables and chairs, and accompanied by a full set of talented dancers. Her set design was grand, colorful and constantly changing. At one point, after a big dance scene, one of her dancers brought out an oxygen tank, Paula put the mask on, inhaled a couple of times and said, “You think I’m kidding? This is 62!”. Putting everything she has into her performances; Paula Abdul is truly a showstopper. She looked amazing, delivering all the hits we love so much including “Cold Hearted” “Forever Your Girl” and “Hush Hush”.

When Paula concluded, the countdown to the moment these fans have been waiting for was upon them. As Jordan Knight, Donnie Wahlberg, Joey McIntyre, Jonathan Knight, and Danny Wood hit the stage, the fans went absolutely wild. I usually wear earplugs to help with the bass being so close but this time I needed them the entire concert due to the pane glass cracking screams from adoring fans. I’ve never heard screams so loud – literally screaming at the top of their lungs! It was nuts!! NKOTB opened up with “Magic”, their first track off their recent album.

The visual elements of the concert were impressive. The stage design was dynamic, incorporating a series of elevated platforms, vibrant light shows, and impressive video projections. The choreography was tight and well-coordinated, with each dance routine perfectly timed to complement the high-energy beats of their songs. Neons, bright lights, streamers, confetti cannons and fog machines filled the venue. The high energy choreographies were fun! They incorporated all their signature moves effortlessly and you could tell they were having fun and didn’t take themselves too seriously. They were a bit more suggestive than their younger years, Donnie couldn’t help but to show off his abs several times and the “hip thrusts” thrown by each band member throughout the show made us all giggle. Each band member has such different personalities and it showed through as the night went on. The engagement they all have with their fans is like none other, bringing fans onstage to dance with them, having them singalong and even having group of fans stand on each side of the stage throughout the show for a lucky up close experience. 

One of the stand out moments was when the fans all got a lot closer to the action as each band member ran throughout the venue, hugging and kissing fans and taking selfies, eventually landing on elevated platforms providing fans with a closer experience than they expected.   They performed multiple songs perched from the platforms as fans screamed to “Block Party” and “Tonight“.  Once they made their way back on stage NKOTB showcased a few solos from select members including Joey’s piano take on “Where Do I Go From Here?”, “Treat Me Right”, Donnie’s  “Stay With Me Baby”, Jordan’s “Baby, I Believe In You” and Jonathan’s serenade of “Happy Birthday” to one lucky fan.

The latter part of the show featured hits such as “Please Don’t Go Girl” and “Step By Step.”  They had multiple wardrobe changes with one in particular donning their blinged out and bedazzled Boston Celtics jerseys before performing “Hangin’ Tough” as an ode to their hometown of Boston’s basketball team.  They finished the thunderous evening with the live debut of “Better Days” where decibel levels were so high I felt the pillars of the venue would collapse. 

For fans of NKOTB and lovers of pop music nostalgia, the night at the PNC Bank Arts Center was a memorable celebration that reaffirmed why these boys from Boston remain beloved icons in the world of music.

Five Finger Death Punch

Concert Reviews

August 5, 2024 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

Five Finger Death Punch brought their 2024 tour to a sold out crowd at PNC Bank Arts Center on a hot and humid Monday night in NJ. The audience, a diverse mix of long-time fans and new listeners, was buzzing with enthusiasm. The crowd was a mix of goths, metalheads, and curious newcomers, all eagerly anticipating the main event.

The evening kicked off with Emo rock group The Funeral Project. They put on a fun theatrical live show. Lead singer Lee Jennings was full of energy and has a huge stage presence. Acclaimed as one of Alternative Press’ “100 Bands You Need to Know,” and you clearly understood why the minute they hit the stage.

Next up was Slaughter to Prevail, a Russian deathcore band from Yekaterinburg, Sverdlovsk Oblast. They are currently based in Orlando, Florida. The band’s overall commanding stage presence and iconic masks really pulls you in immediately. Lead singer, Alex the Terrible has the ability to morph his voice into something quite unworldly. A very intense entertaining performance.

Manson, the self-proclaimed “God of F***,” made a dramatic entrance as the curtain dropped, emerging from the shadows amidst a cloud of smoke. His presence was immediately commanding, clad in his signature dark, gothic attire, and his makeup as striking as ever.

This is Marilyn Manson’s first tour in almost five years. Manson’s career was put on pause the last few years due to a high number of legal cases involving serious allegations of sexual abuse. His band, featuring longtime drummer Gil Sharon and guitarist Tyler Bates have returned to the fold. Bassist Piggy D. (formerly of Rob Zombie) and current Code Orange guitarist/co-vocalist Reba Meyers have joined this tour. They provided a tight, explosive musical foundation that perfectly complemented Manson’s vocal delivery and stage antics.

Manson’s vocal performance was powerful and haunting, his voice resonating through the venue with an intensity that held the audience captive. He prowled the stage with a theatrical flair, often interacting with the crowd in his unique, provocative manner.

The setlist was a well-balanced mix of classic hits and newer material. Songs like “The Beautiful People,” “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This),” and “The Dope Show” had the crowd up on their feet singing along. The night was a dark, thrilling journey through Manson’s twisted world, leaving fans both old and new eagerly anticipating his next return to the stage.

When Five Finger Death Punch finally took the stage, the atmosphere erupted with electrifying energy. Ivan Moody, the band’s charismatic lead vocalist, commanded the stage with his raw and powerful voice. His connection with the crowd was undeniable and a highlight, as he frequently engaged with fans and rallying the audience with his infectious energy. His performance was raw and intense, as he deftly switched between aggressive growls and melodic choruses. Zoltan Bathory’s guitar work and rock star charisma was nothing short of spectacular, delivering crushing riffs that left the crowd in awe. Chris Kael on bass and Charlie “The Engine” Engen on drums provided a thunderous rhythm section that kept the momentum going strong throughout the night. Andy James, the more recent addition to the band, proved his mettle with flawless execution and electrifying energy.

The setlist was a well-curated mix of their biggest hits and newer material, pleasing both longtime followers and recent fans. Songs like “Jekyll and Hyde,” “Wrong Side of Heaven,” and “Wash It All Away” were met with roaring approval. The stage production was equally impressive, featuring dynamic lighting & lasers that enhanced the overall experience. As the final notes of their encore rang out, the audience erupted in cheers, a fitting end to an electrifying night.

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

Setlist

  1. Welcome to the Circus
  2. Lift Me Up
  3. Trouble
  4. Wash It All Away
  5. Jekyll and Hyde
  6. Sham Pain
  7. Bad Company
  8. Salvation
  9. Burn MF
  10. Far From Home
  11. Wrong Side of Heaven
  12. Got Your Six
  13. No One Gets Left Behind
  14. IOU
  15. Under and Over it (Encore)
  16. Never Enough (Encore)
  17. The Bleeding (Encore)