musicreview

The Who – The Song Is Over: North America Farewell Tour

Concert Reviews

September 10, 2025 – Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadephia PA

Review by Christopher Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

I have been a fan of The Who for as far back as I can remember.  As a kid in the 70’s I would play their music nonstop until I knew every word to every song… from vinyl to cassette, to CD — from record player, to Sony Walkman, to car stereos, to current day downloads they have been with me through every step of my life, with many fond memories and life experiences attached to their music as I grew older. I must have burned through the Who’s Next album more than any other music I’ve owned.  They are my all-time fave!  

I’ve seen The Who a bunch and can even remember when they announced they were playing their final show back in the 80’s. I was devastated at the time but I thank the music Gods that wasn’t the case. And I thank them again for yet another opportunity to see them and write this review on this final farewell tour aptly named, “The Song Is Over”.

This was a rescheduled show from last month when The Who had to postpone due to “an illness” (though the specific member(s) affected hasn’t been made public). We listened to their music and sang in the car as we arrived early for our photo pass and review tickets.  Along with almost 20,000 fans in attendance, I was burning with anticipation for what I was about to experience.

The Who chose Leslie Mendelson as the opening act. She has opened for The Who before and played acoustically as if to calm the audience to settle everyone into what was to be a very special evening for those fortunate enough to be present. Mendelson crafts a distinctive folk-rock, pop sound with precision and elegance with a satiny, easy listening voice. I didn’t know what to expect but enjoyed her performance very much. While each song ended with applause, when she mentioned she was from New York, the Philly crowd let out a few “boos”.  It was a funny moment rather than insulting, and she laughed and took it with grace. I guess as a New Yorker playing in Philly, one has to know their audience and when one is in rival territory.

As the lights dimmed, a ripple of excitement resonated through the full house. Cheers flowed through the venue as silhouetted band members took the stage. With a slight delay Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend took the stage in spotlight as the place erupted. Then when the opening chords of “I Can’t Explain” hit, Roger & Pete immediately asserted their presence. Despite Roger being in his eighties, he still has that raw, commanding punch in his voice. From the first note, he’s both honoring the legacy and reminding us of the energy that The Who has always had.

Pete Townshend is stoic but lively as ever — his guitar work was sharp and his presence still commanding, still swinging his arm in that signature windmill motion. The band backing them (including Scott Devours on drums, Jon Button on bass, Simon Townshend (Pete’s brother on guitar), Loren Gold on keys, Jody Linscott on percussion and John Hogg with backup vocals) is tight and respectful of the classics, but they also inject enough freshness to keep long‑time fans engaged. 

When the open song concluded, Roger approached the mic and said, “sorry we’re late” acknowledging the postponement of the originally scheduled date with humorous apology.  They played a ton of classics early (“Substitute”, “Who Are You”, “The Seeker“) as the “essential” set list was littered with hit after hit. Mid set dug into deeper territory with “Love Ain’t For Keepin’”, “The Real Me”, “5:15” and “I’m one” – all part of their Quadrophenia suite.  Emotional peaks to the show where “See Me, Feel Me“, “Love, Reign O’er Me” with big crowd pleasers in “Pinball Wizard‘, “Behind Blue Eyes“, “My Generation” and “You Better You Bet“.

Daltrey still has plenty of power, especially in the iconic scream moments (ie: “Won’t Get Fooled Again“) though some lower registers might be more carefully handled; he knows his voice is precious now. Townshend’s guitar work remains excellent, though occasional age is noticeable in guitar solos or movement. The sidemen hold the show together and Drummer Scott Devours fills that role well.

The Visuals were represented with a big screen backdrop which leaned heavily on nostalgia —with archival photos from the ’60s and ’70s, vintage stage lighting cues, and other thematic elements (ie: mod imagery for the Quadrophenia segment). The theatrical moments through visual storytelling was very cool, especially during songs like “The Real Me” and “5:15“. I found myself watching the screen as well and enjoy what they put together.

Philadelphia is a major rock town, the energy of the crowd was loud and passionate. Songs like “My Generation‘ and “Baba O’Riley” brought out sing‑alongs and emotional moments were present in songs like “See Me, Feel Me” which produced a reaction of quiet awe followed by loud applause. Even with any health concerns (which have been part of the tour’s narrative), the energy in these farewell shows has often overcome the physical limitations.

As the evening wound down and The Who moved through their set list, it was apparent the show was approaching its finale/encore.  The 19th of 22 songs still had fans on their feet as “Won’t Get Fooled Again” erupted, followed by “Baba O’Riley”. Then, post applause, as a peaceful calmness enveloped the crowd, the delicate keyboard intro of “The Song Is Over” penetrated everyone’s heart and soul as Roger & Pete played their goodbye. Then as the other band members left the stage a spot light stayed with Roger & Pete and as if to sit back and relax and soak in the audience while reflecting on their success, they broke into an intimate, acoustic rendition of “Tea & Theatre” as the evening concluded.

The knowledge that this is one of the final U.S. legs of The Who together, ever, casts everything in a sharp lens with all in attendance seeing teenage heroes still performing live. Even with some rough edges, this was not just a great show but a “do not miss” event. For fans like me, it was a thrill hearing beloved songs played live once more and seeing these rock legends deliver with dignity, power, and (yes) a little vulnerability. The peak moments delivered goosebumps, but it was the in‑between: the soulful quieter bits, the surprises and rarities, the sense of history and finality — that makes it unforgettable.

To The Who: Thank you for everything. Farewell.  Long Live Rock!

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

The Weeknd

Concert Reviews

June 6, 2025 – MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

The Weeknd made MetLife his home for 3 nights straight on his current tour, After Hours Til Dawn. This isn’t a typical tour—it’s an immersive experience that blends dystopian imagery, futuristic staging, and a carefully crafted narrative voyage through his music. It showcases his evolution from underground enigma to global pop icon.

Opening sets by Mike Dean (powerhouse American record producer, audio engineer, and multi-instrumentalist) and Playboi Carti (rapper and trendsetting figure in modern hip-hop), laid the perfect groundwork, serving up high-energy beats to hype us before Abel took control. Playboi Carti also joined The Weeknd for “Timeless” & “Rather Lie” mid set which had fans lose control.

From the moment the house lights dropped at MetLife Stadium, The Weeknd transported over 80,000 fans into his cinematic universe. Abel made a very haunting entrance as he emerged with a futuristic mask and black cape surrounded by a circle of figures covered up in red drapes. Opening with “The Abyss” and “Wake Me Up,” Abel immediately plunged the audience into the atmospheric world of Hurry Up Tomorrow. Abel emerged from the abandoned cityscape set design, instantly sinking us into his apocalyptic vision—a perfect blend of After Hours and Dawn FM aesthetics. His voice filled the stadium with crystalline precision, proving that even at this scale, his vocals alone can captivate.

Abel jumped right in and started the epic night with his iconic hits “After Hours”, “Starboy”, “Heartless”, and “Faith“. Tracks like “The Hills”, “Can’t Feel My Face,” and “Blinding Lights” turned into rallying cries as thousands sang along in unison. Songs like “Kiss Land”, “Often”, and “I Was Never There” delivered powerful nostalgia, satisfying long‑time fans. The energy soared when synchronized LED wristbands lit up the crowd , pulsating with every beat and changing colors throughout the night.

The stage’s dramatic lighting—deep reds, stark backlights, and billowing fog—created silhouettes that, when timed perfectly, turned Abel into a mythic figure towering in front of an eighty-thousand‑strong backdrop. The full-stadium runway was quite impressive and Abel made it a point to own every corner of it to ensure the massive venue felt intimately connected. There were massive LED backdrops, pyrotechnics, and a stage design that resembled a post-apocalyptic city, The Weeknd created a world his fans can fully step into. Each performance is a visual and emotional journey, proving his artistry extends far beyond the studio.

This setlist was an expertly crafted flow—blending new and old, darkness and light, intimacy and spectacle. Each transition felt intentional, every highlight purposeful. From opener to closer, it was an unforgettable three‑hour ride through The Weeknd’s evolving sonic universe—captivating, cohesive, and emotionally resonant. A flawless fusion of storytelling, sound, and spectacle. dramatic lighting & emotional peaks.

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

Ace Frehley

Concert Reviews

May 2, 2025 – Starland Ballroom, Sayreville NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

“The Spaceman” has arrived at Starland Ballroom in Sayreville NJ. The venue was filled with die-hard fans, many in vintage KISS t-shirts and memorabilia’s hoping to get signed at the end of the show. Ace Frehley emerged on stage around 9:30 pm, guitar slung low with his trademark smirk as fans erupted in cheer proving his legendary status is still well earned.

Ace Frehley is a true rock legend whose influence on guitar-driven music is undeniable. As the original lead guitarist and founding member of KISS, Ace helped define the band’s signature sound with his explosive solos and larger-than-life stage presence. He is a Rock N’ Roll Hall of Famer who influenced a generation of guitar players and still continues to do so. 

The setlist was a perfect mix of KISS classics like “Shock Me”, “Shout It Out Loud”, “Rocket Ride”, “Love Gun” and solo gems like “Rock Soldiers” and “New York Groove,” which had the whole crowd singing along. His iconic smoking guitar solo was a highlight as well as the finale “Rock and Roll All Nite” transporting fans back to the heyday of KISS. Ace’s vocals may not be as polished as they once were but he came out giving his all and seemed to be having fun. His band consists of Ryan Cook on bass, Jeremy Asbrock on guitar, and Scott Coogan on drums. They truly are a great fit as they provided the extra energy when it was lacking from Ace.

While his vocals and personal life have had ups and downs, his passion for music never faded. Whether on stage or in the studio, Ace continues to prove he’s a vital force in rock. He’s not just a former KISS guitarist—he’s a rock icon in his own right. This wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of Ace Frehley’s enduring place in rock history. At 73, the Spaceman still flies high. Rock on, Ace.

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

Adrian Vandenberg

Concert Reviews

March 4, 2025 – The Vogel, Red Bank NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

Red Bank New Jersey’s iconic venue, The Vogel, a smaller venue nestled within the Count Basie Center for the Arts, was the perfect backdrop for Dutch guitar legend Adrian Vandenberg on his “My Whitesnake Years” tour with special guest Bad Marriage.

Bad Marriage, not “just another band out of Boston”, opened the evening and was a great set up to Vandenberg, setting the tone for a nostalgic, throw-back to 80’s Rock & Roll! The bands perfect mix of sound and style catapulted me back to high school. They delivered an energetic live performance, mixing smooth tones with strong vocals in their own unique style. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Bad Marriage is made up of Jonny Paquin on vocals, Mike Fitz on lead guitar, Tommy Skeoch on lead/rhythm guitar, Ian Haggerty on rhythm guitar, Todd Boisvert on bass, and Michael Delaney on drums. The addition of Tommy Skeoch, formerly of Tesla, rounds out the sound to the band, gives a nod to the hair bands of yesteryear, and adds a cool feel to the triple guitar attack. 

After a brief interlude, the crowd was ready for the headliner and erupted in applause as Adrian Vandenberg took the stage. As Vandenberg, best known as the lead guitar slinger of Whitesnake, strolled to his mark on the far side of the stage his eponymous band followed, and the audience was set for a great evening of some new music mixed in with his iconic 80’s style hair band riffs and hits of Whitesnake.

Vandenberg, now in his 60s, showed no sign of slowing down. The legendary guitarist’s playing was sharp, soulful, and perfectly executed. His tone was warm and heavy, resonating throughout The Vogel’s intimate space, creating an atmosphere where every note felt personal. His rendition of “Burning Heart” had the crowd hooked, while “Here I Go Again” saw Vandenberg putting his signature spin on a Whitesnake classic, adding new layers of emotional depth to a song that’s become iconic.

The chemistry between Vandenberg and his backing band was undeniable. Bassist Sem Christoffel laid down a deep groove, as did keyboardist Len Van De Laak, while drummer Joey Marin De Boer provided the powerful backbone of the rhythm section. Frontman Mats Levén’s voice soared effortlessly through Vandenberg’s intricate compositions, giving the crowd a new appreciation for these timeless tracks.

Vandenberg’s guitar solos were the highlight of the evening, each one dripping with emotion and technical prowess. He effortlessly shifted between melodic runs and fiery shredding, displaying the breadth of his musical mastery. “Still of the Night,” with its signature haunting guitar lines, was a moment that had the entire venue fully engaged.

The acoustics were great, allowing each guitar riff, drum hit, and vocal note to shine through with clarity. The venue’s cozy and intimate yet vibrant atmosphere allowed fans to connect with the performers on a personal level, providing fans the rare opportunity to be up close making the night feel special from start to finish.

For fans who enjoy 80’s rock, this was an unforgettable evening. While Vandenberg has certainly left his mark on the genre, he also brought his A-game to The Vogel. It was a night that reminded us why we keep coming back to live music—the thrill of hearing some our favorite songs from that time, the magic of witnessing guitar greatness, and the shared connection that only live performance can bring.

For more info please visit http://www.vandenbergband.com http://www.badmarriagemusic.com

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

Duran Duran

Concert Reviews

October 26, 2024 – Borgata Hotel and Casino, Atlantic City NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

“The Wild Boys” were back visiting Atlantic City. The iconic English Pop/Rock band and innovators of the music video, Duran Duran played to a sold out show at the Borgata Hotel & Casino, allowing fans from all over a glimpse into the bands vibrant world.

The crowd was waiting in anticipation as a DJ warmed up the audience playing 80’s themed hits… and as the lights finally dimmed and the opening notes of “Night Boat” filled the venue, the crowd erupted in applause, signaling that they were ready for a night of reminiscence.

Known for their fashion forward style, the band, comprised of Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor and Dominic Brown, appeared effortlessly cool, dressed in sleek outfits that echoed their ’80s glam roots while feeling contemporary. Le Bon’s charismatic presence shone throughout the evening and while it seemed he was suffering from a head cold, his voice was still as strong as ever, effortlessly hitting the high notes that have defined their classic tracks.

The setlist seemed carefully curated as it was full of fan favorites with some newer material masterfully balanced in. Classics like “Hungry Like the Wolf”, “Notorious”, “The Reflex”, and “Union of the Snake” had the audience singing along with every word, while some newer tracks showcased the band’s continued evolution. Each song was met with enthusiastic cheers, and the energy in the room was electric.

Visually, the concert was stunning. Duran Duran’s signature aesthetic was enhanced by a captivating light show that danced in sync with the music. The backdrop featured a mix of striking visuals, from retro clips to modern graphics, adding depth to the performance.

As the night progressed, the energy in the room only intensified. The infectious groove of “Come Undone” had everyone on their feet, dancing and singing along. The encore, featuring “Save a Prayer” and the timeless “Rio,” left the audience craving more, but also satisfied with a night well spent. The famed stylish 5 brought an electrifying performance that reminded fans why this iconic band has endured for decades. 

The Borgata’s setting, with its upscale ambiance, made for an enjoyable concert experience. The venue’s acoustics amplified every note, allowing the lush soundscapes of Duran Duran to envelop the audience completely.

As a product of the 80’s myself, Duran Duran has been one of my favorites ever since they burst onto the scene as what has been described as the MTV led, Second British Invasion. They delivered a performance that was both a celebration of their illustrious career and a testament to their ongoing relevance in today’s music scene. For those fortunate enough to be in attendance, it was a night of unforgettable memories and a reminder of why this band continues to shine brightly, decades after their rise to fame. Here’s hoping they’ll be back for another round soon!  I’ll be sure not to miss it.  AND, happy birthday Simon!

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

Pink

Concert Reviews

October 3, 2024 – MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

Pink brought her highly anticipated 2024 Summer Carnival tour to a sold out crowd at MetLife on a cool beautiful fall night in NJ. This was her first show at MetLife, her first show back to NJ after 6 years and her largest U.S. crowd ever as a headliner.

The first opener of the night was Irish rock band The Script, known for their heartfelt lyrics and engaging stage presence. Starting their set with “Superheroes“, they immediately struck a chord with the crowd. They moved seamlessly from upbeat anthems like “Hall of Fame” to poignant ballads such as “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved“. Lead singer Danny O’Donoghue’s dynamic energy and interaction with fans added an extra layer of warmth and intimacy to the massive stadium setting.

Sheryl Crow’s performance as the second opening act for Pink was a nostalgic and vibrant celebration of her enduring career and talent. Crow stepped on stage in her flared leather pants and black sequined sleeveless top, bringing her signature blend of rock, pop, and country influences. Her set including classics like “All I Wanna Do“, “If It Makes You Happy” and “Everyday Is a Winding Road“. Her laid-back charm and positive demeanor was a perfect way to welcome Pink.

The fans were hyped for Pink to grace the stage at 8:50 but the extra 15 minutes felt like a lifetime as an animated version of her projected on the screens welcoming her fans. The lights came on and she appeared in a giant smiling mouth with bright red lips high above the stage. As the mouth opened, Pink’s infectious smile greeted her fans as she waved and took it all in before plunging down towards the stage and performing aerial acrobatics all while singing “Get This Party Started”, showcasing both her physical strength and artistic dedication.

The stage design and visual effects added another layer of energy to the performance, with dynamic lighting and larger-than-life visuals complementing each song. The stage was full of talented dancers, giant ice creams cones, flamingos and oversized disco balls. Between songs, Pink engaged the crowd with genuine stories and reflections on her life, showing a personal and human side that often lacks once you reach this level of fame.

The show was divided into four distinct acts, each with its own unique feel and flow. From heart-pounding aerial performances to intimate acoustic moments, Pink’s ability to shift seamlessly between high-energy and heartfelt songs left fans exhilarated and deeply moved. Her setlist was packed with both classic hits like “So What“, “Just Like A Pill”, “Raise Your Glass“, “Who Knew”, and “What About Us” as well as newer anthems from her recent album. The set consisted mainly of hit songs from her catalog but also included a couple of covers such as Pat Benatar’s “Heartbreaker” and 4 Non Blondes “What’s Up.”

Pink closed out the show flying above her 60,000 fans throughout the stadium while performing “So What.”  Her gratitude was on display as she tried to wave goodbye to every single fan while she landed on several podiums in the crowd. I was told that her shows were legendary and I can now agree without a doubt. Pink has cemented her place as one of the most influential artists of her generation, inspiring fans with her powerful voice and authenticity. She has proved why she is one of the most exciting and dynamic live performers in music today. Beyond the aerial stunts and theatrical elements, Pink’s genuine warmth and authenticity were perhaps the most memorable aspects of the evening. 

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

Korn

Concert Reviews

September 21, 2024 – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion, Camden NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

The Freedom Mortgage Pavilion was buzzing with fans eager for a night of adrenaline-fueled energy, featuring the iconic nu-metal legends Korn and the formidable French metal band Gojira along with the Canadian metalcore Spiritbox!

As Spiritbox kicked off the evening, the crowd erupted in cheers as frontwoman Courtney LaPlante commanded attention immediately. Her stage presence was a blend of intensity and grace while dishing out a mix of haunting melodies and crushing riffs which were to set the tone for a powerful night of melodic metalcore.

LaPlante’s ethereal vocals soared alongside powerful instrumentals, showcasing the band’s signature blend of crips vocals and guttural screaming. Her emotional depth of the performance was palpable and LaPlante’s heartfelt delivery resonated with many in the audience who knew just what to expect as she turned a heavy metal show into a cathartic experience.

Setting the Stage for Korn next were the French heavy metal band, Gojira. If you watched the Olympic opening ceremonies this summer, you may recall Gojira added one of the most vivid and jarring moments in Olympic opening ceremony history when they performed from the balconies looking over the River Seine in Paris.

The moment they took the stage and kicked off with “Born for One Thing,” the crowd was electrified. Their blend of progressive metal and environmental themes resonated deeply with me, with frontman Joe Duplantier commanding the stage like a force of nature. 

The sound was immaculate; the intricate guitar work and thunderous drums were perfectly balanced, allowing each note to pierce through the air.  Mario Duplantier (Joe’s brother) stole the show on drums.  His hard-hitting style reminded me of some of the best in the world, and has been described as one of metal’s most rhythmic and technical drummers.

Highlights for me included when they performed “Flying Whales,” where the haunting melodies created an almost ethereal atmosphere, and “Stranded,” which showcased the band’s ability to weave heavy riffs with moments of melodic beauty. Gojira’s passion was palpable, and their commitment to both their craft and the planet shone through in every performance. 

The backdrop kept me fully engaged as the visuals on screen told the stories of each song and the lighting was memorizing.  A great performance and the packed house concurred with thunderous applause as they closed with “Amazonia”!

After a brief intermission and while the audience were bursting with anticipation, the black curtain finally dropped and the titans of nu-metal, Korn stormed onto the stage with the iconic intro of “Here to Stay.” The energy in the pavilion skyrocketed as fans erupted in cheers. 

Jonathan Davis’s unmistakable voice soared over the heavy, groove-laden instrumentals, delivering a wave of raw power. The band also consists of Brian Welch on guitar, Ray Luzier on drums, Ra Diaz on bass and James Shaffer (“Munky”) on guitar. They seamlessly blended classic hits like “Got the Life”, Blind” and “Shoots and Ladders” with newer tracks from their latest album, keeping both long-time fans and newcomers engaged. The addition of dramatic visuals and intense lighting elevated the experience, turning the pavilion into a pulsating spectacle.

Davis’s emotional connection with the crowd was evident, delivering moments of vulnerability amidst the chaos which illustrated the depth of Korn’s artistry. The night culminated in a relentless encore featuring “Falling Away”, “Oildale (Leave Me Alone)” and “Freak on a Leash” leaving fans shouting for more.

The pairing of Spiritbox, Gojira and Korn was a match made in metal heaven. Spiritbox’s blend of power and grace and Gojira’s technical prowess and thematic depth set a high bar, while Korn’s legendary status and high-octane performance delivered the final blow. The atmosphere was electric, with fans headbanging and singing along, creating a sense of unity that only live music can inspire.

As the night came to a close, the crowd left buzzing with adrenaline, grateful for the unforgettable experience. This concert wasn’t just a showcase of talent; it was a celebration of heavy music’s power to connect, inspire, and move. If you ever get the chance to see either of these bands live, don’t miss it!

For more info please visit http://www.kornofficial.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

Jane’s Addiction

Concert Reviews

September 7, 2024 – Hard Rock Casino & Hotel // Etess Arena, Atlantic City NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

I’ve been a long-time fan of Jane’s Addiction so was very excited to be able to attend and review this show.  Especially at The Hard Rock which is a very well-fitting venue for a night of raw energy and classic alt-rock anthems. The iconic band, known for their genre-defying sound and theatrical performances, was about to take the stage with a presence that had me pulsating with anticipation of what was to come.

Opening the evening was the all-female band, Crawlers.  Known for their infectious energy and raw intensity, they delivered a performance that left the audience buzzing. Their blend of alt-rock and indie pop was both vibrant and emotionally charged, with standout tracks like “Come Over (Again)” and “I Don’t Want to Be Your Friend” resonating deeply. The band’s chemistry was palpable, with frontwoman Holly Minto’s powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence leading the charge. The crowd was fully engaged, making it clear that Crawlers are a rising force in the live music scene.

Following Crawlers came Love and Rockets who captivated the crowd with a mesmerizing performance, blending their signature goth and alternative rock sound with an effortlessly cool stage presence. The setlist was a mix of their well-known hits, including an electrifying version of “So Alive” that had the audience singing along in unison. Daniel Ash’s guitar work was as sharp and evocative as ever, while David J’s bass lines provided a hauntingly solid foundation. The band’s undeniable charisma created a very cool atmosphere setting the tone for Jane’s Addiction and proving that the band has the power to enchant and exhilarate.

The venue began to fill in quickly with seats filled and with fans on the general admission floor standing shoulder to shoulder.  As the lights dimmed Jane’s Addiction took the stage. From the moment Perry Farrell’s distinctive voice cut through the air with the opening notes of “Kettle Whistle,” it was clear that this was not going to be just another concert.

The setlist was a journey through Jane’s Addiction’s storied career. Highlights included blistering renditions of “Been Caught Stealing” and “Jane Says,” each one drawing roars from the packed crowd. The energy in the room was palpable, with fans singing along and dancing as if the years had melted away.

It was great to see the entire band of original members together again. Dave Navarro, ever the guitar virtuoso, delivered a masterclass in rock guitar. His solos were both technically impressive and emotionally charged, demonstrating why he remains one of the genre’s most respected guitarists. His interplay with bassist Chris Chaney was particularly noteworthy, as the two musicians locked into an intricate groove that drove the performance forward with relentless momentum.

Drummer Stephen Perkins, a cornerstone of the band’s rhythm section, was as dynamic as ever. His percussive prowess added a layer of complexity to the music, accentuating the fusion of punk, funk, and metal that Jane’s Addiction is renowned for. The drum solo during “Three Days” was a standout moment, showcasing Perkins’ ability to fuse precision with an almost primal intensity.

The stage was only adorned with a large banner displaying the bands name, in a way that seemed to communicate “enough said” as the music and musicians were all you needed to focus on. The lighting complemented the band’s theatrical flair. The visual elements were carefully designed to enhance the music without overshadowing it, creating an immersive experience for those in attendance.

The crowd, seeming mostly made up of long-time fans, was clearly enthralled. Farrell’s interactions with the audience were unapologetic and humorous but a highlight. There was a genuine connection between the band and the crowd, a reminder of why Jane’s Addiction has remained a beloved act for over three decades.

Jane’s Addiction’s performance at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino was a testament to their enduring appeal and musical prowess.  However, I must say, I did expect a bit more energy to some of the songs and something seemed a little off all night amongst the members. As a fan I tried to block it out and allow my ears to absorb what I know these musicians have done and can do. These guys were cooler than cool back in the day but at this stage in their life all the rebel persona and drug references just aren’t as cool as they once were.  None the less, I was not disappointed, as they proved once again that they are not just survivors of the alt-rock explosion of the late ’80s and early ’90s but vital, evolving artists capable of delivering an unforgettable live experience. For anyone who has ever been a fan of Jane’s Addiction, or for those who simply appreciate a top-notch rock show, this was a night to remember.

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