Joe Bonamassa

February 23, 2024 – The Count Basie, Red Bank NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

A Blues Masterclass: Joe Bonamassa Shines at The Count Basie Theatre

Attending Joe Bonamassa’s show at The Count Basie Theatre in was not just a concert but a pilgrimage to witness a modern virtuoso in action. Bonamassa’s reputation precedes him, but nothing quite prepares you for the raw energy and musical mastery he brings to the stage.

From the moment Bonamassa stepped onto the stage, clad in his trademark suit and black shades, the atmosphere was electric. The sold out venue crackled with anticipation as he launched into “Hope You Realize It,” setting the tone for an unforgettable evening of blues-rock brilliance.

One of the most striking aspects of Bonamassa’s performance is his flawless technique. Every note he played was infused with emotion and precision, showcasing his impeccable control over the instrument. Whether he was unleashing blistering solos or delicately weaving intricate melodies, his command of the guitar was nothing short of awe-inspiring.

But beyond his technical prowess, what truly sets Bonamassa apart is his ability to channel the soul of the blues. With each song, he delved deep into the heart of the genre, pouring his passion and emotion into every chord progression and lyrical expression. Whether he was belting out gritty vocals or letting his guitar do the talking, there was an authenticity to his performance that resonated with every member of the audience. Despite his status as a guitar legend, he remained humble and approachable throughout the show, feeding off their energy. It was clear that he was genuinely grateful for the opportunity to share his music with them, and the feeling was mutual.

Joe Bonamassa’s performance at The Count Basie Theatre was nothing short of extraordinary. For guitar enthusiasts, it was a masterclass in technique and expression. For fans of the blues, it was a soul-stirring journey through the genre’s rich history and timeless appeal. And for everyone in attendance, it was a night they would not soon forget.

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

Setlist

Hope You Realize It
24 Hour Blues
Well I Done Got Over
Self Inflicted Wounds
Shout About It
Last Matador of Bayonne
Breaking Up Someones Home
Heart That Never Waits
Is It Safe To Go Home
Lazy Poker Blues
Just Got Paid
Mountain Time

James Taylor

Concert Reviews

September 5, 2023 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

James Taylor’s concert at the PNC Bank Arts Center was nothing short of a musical masterpiece. Taylor, a legendary figure in the folk and rock genres, proved that his enduring talent continues to captivate audiences across generations.

From the moment he stepped on stage, the audience was transported to a realm of timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Taylor’s signature smooth voice, combined with his exceptional guitar skills, created an intimate and magical atmosphere. It was like having a conversation with an old friend who shared stories through his songs.

The setlist was a perfect blend of his classic hits, demonstrating his artistic evolution while paying homage to his roots. “Fire and Rain,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and “Carolina in My Mind” were met with thunderous applause, and Taylor’s emotive rendition of each song left not a dry eye in the house.

The backing band was outstanding, adding depth and richness to the performance without overshadowing Taylor’s presence. The stage design, with its warm lighting and subtle visuals, complemented the music beautifully.

James Taylor’s concert was a testament to his enduring talent and his ability to connect with his audience on a profound level. It was an unforgettable night filled with nostalgia, emotion, and the sheer joy of experiencing a living legend in action.

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

Smashing Pumpkins

Concert Reviews

August 24, 2023 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

New Jersey reverberated with electrifying energy on this cool summer August evening as the legendary Smashing Pumpkins accompanied by openers Interpol and Rival Sons graced the stage at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ.

Rival Sons kicked the evening off for what can only be described as a transcendent live music experience. With their reputation for delivering explosive performances, the anticipation in the air was palpable. Rival Sons immediately transported the audience to a world of musical enchantment. The band’s chemistry was undeniable with lead vocalist Jay Buchanan and guitarist Scott Holiday sharing a magnetic onstage presence that drew the audience in from the very first note.

Following Rival Sons, New York City’s own Interpol returned across the river from their home town for a mesmerizing live performance which was nothing short of a sonic journey through their illustrious career. Interpol had come prepared to deliver a night to remember and their ability to create an atmosphere of dark allure was unrivaled. The combination of Daniel Kessler’s haunting guitar riffs, Sam Fogarino’s impeccable drumming, and Paul Banks’ evocative lyrics transported the audience into the depths of their moody, post-punk world which was a perfect set up for the Smashing Pumpkins!

As Interpol concluded, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation as fans gathered to witness the great Billy Corgan and The Smashing Pumpkins. With their iconic blend of alternative rock and grunge, The Smashing Pumpkins transported us back to the heyday of the 90s and Billy Corgan’s distinctive voice is still as hauntingly beautiful as ever as he captivated the audience from start to finish. I have been a “Pumpkins” fan since their beginning and was very excited to see them on this current tour.

The stage design was a visual feast, featuring a massive LED screen backdrop displaying psychedelic visuals, kaleidoscopic patterns, and mesmerizing animations that perfectly complemented the music. Giant, illuminated versions of the band’s signature heart-shaped logo adorned the stage, pulsating with each beat.

The band’s lineup, which has seen some changes over the years, was in top form. Corgan, with his unmistakable bald head and electric guitar, was joined by James Iha on rhythm guitar, Jeff Schroeder on lead guitar, along with the rest of the band who provided the thunderous backbone of the performance. The setlist was a delightful mix of classics and deep cuts, spanning their illustrious career – from “Today”, to “Disarm”, to “1979”, to “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” the band had the crowd dancing and singing along igniting fans as if reliving their angsty teenage years. The ethereal “Tonight, Tonight” and the haunting “Ava Adore” showcased Corgan’s songwriting prowess and the band’s versatility.

But it wasn’t just about revisiting the past. The Smashing Pumpkins also treated the audience to tracks from their more recent albums, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to pushing musical boundaries. Songs from their post-reunion work were met with a warm reception, proving that the Pumpkins continue to evolve while staying true to their roots. Billy Corgan’s stage presence was magnetic. He engaged with the audience, sharing anecdotes between songs and expressing gratitude for the enduring support of their fans. His guitar skills were nothing short of exceptional, as he effortlessly transitioned between melodic and distorted riffs, showcasing his mastery of the instrument.

As the night drew to a close with an extended and electrifying version of “Cherub Rock” it was evident that the Smashing Pumpkins had given their all. The concert was a testament to the enduring power of their music and the connection they share with their dedicated fanbase. Leaving the PNC Arts Center that night, it was impossible not to feel that we had witnessed something truly special. The Smashing Pumpkins had not only revived the 90s magic but had also shown that their music continues to resonate and inspire across generations. It was a night of musical transcendence and a reminder that great music is timeless.

For more info please visit http://www.smashingpumpkins.com. http://www.rivalsons.com. http://www.interpolnyc.com

Fall Out Boy

Concert Reviews

August 5, 2023 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

The atmosphere at the PNC venue was charged with excitement as fans eagerly awaited the highly anticipated Fall Out Boy concert on August 5, 2023. The evening promised a blend of nostalgia and modern flair, with the band known for their dynamic stage presence and catalog of hit songs.

Opening up for their “So Much for (Tour) Dust” tour were some pretty cool bands. Games We Play were so energetic and moved quickly across the stage jumping in the air and getting the crowd excited for what was to come. Royal & The Serpent followed and brought a completely different vibe almost putting us into a trance.

The anticipation among the fans was palpable as they waited for Bring Me The Horizon to take the stage. Considered one of UK’s biggest rock band and by seeing the fans I would say the same goes for the US as well. When the first chords of “AmEN!” reverberated through the venue, the crowd erupted into a frenzy of cheers and screams. The energy of frontman Oli Sykes commanded the stage with an unmatched presence.

As the lights dimmed and the crowd erupted in cheers, Fall Out Boy literally kicked off with a bang. They did not waste time with the loud explosions of fireworks that made us all jump from the very start as well as flames flaring across the stage. It really set the tone for the rest of the night. From the first chord to the last note, the band delivered an unforgettable performance that showcased their musical prowess and deep connection with their audience.

Lead vocalist Patrick Stump’s vocals were as captivating as ever, effortlessly transitioning from powerful anthems to more intimate ballads. The energy emanating from bassist Pete Wentz was infectious, as he moved around the stage with undeniable charisma, engaging the crowd at every turn. Guitarist Joe Trohman and drummer Andy Hurley formed a tight musical backbone, driving the rhythm and melodies that had the entire venue dancing and singing along.

The setlist for the evening was a carefully curated journey through Fall Out Boy’s discography. Hits like “Sugar, We’re Goin Down,” “Uma Thurman,” and “Centuries” evoked a sense of nostalgia in long-time fans, while newer tracks from their recent albums demonstrated the band’s evolution and ability to remain relevant in the ever-changing music landscape.

The production value of the concert was nothing short of spectacular. A visually stunning stage setup, complete with extreme pyrotechnical elements, complemented the band’s performance, enhancing the overall experience and heightened the excitement, creating a sensory feast for the audience.

The band’s ability to connect with their audience through their music and energetic performance was undeniable. With a setlist that balanced their iconic classics with newer hits, and a stage production that brought their music to life visually, the concert showcased why Fall Out Boy continues to be a beloved and influential force in the music industry.

For more info please visit http://www.falloutboy.com http://www.bmthofficial.com. http://www.royalandtheserpent.com

Staind & Godsmack

Concert Reviews

July 29^th 2023 – PNC Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

An Explosive Night of Rock and Emotion!

On a pulsating night filled with electric energy (literally… as micro bursts of heavy winds, thunder & lightening erupted just prior to the performance), two titans of the rock world, Staind and Godsmack, took the stage at the PNC Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ. The concert was a riveting blend of hard-hitting rock anthems and heartfelt ballads, proving that both bands have not lost their touch in delivering an unforgettable live experience.

Opening the night was DJ “Mix Master Mike” of Beastie Boys fame who got the crowd jumping and energized for the show.

Then after a short delay due to weather and as the stage lights flickered, Staind with lead singer Aaron Lewis emerged, armed with his acoustic guitar, ready to deliver an emotionally charged set. Staind’s music has always been known for its introspective lyrics and haunting melodies, and tonight was no different. As he strummed his guitar and opened his mouth to sing, an aura of authenticity and vulnerability enveloped the venue, captivating us all. It was evident that Lewis was not just performing for us; he was sharing his soul with the audience.

His vocal range was nothing short of extraordinary, seamlessly shifting from tender, melodic verses to powerful and commanding choruses. Each note was executed with precision and finesse, while his expressive vibrato added a captivating touch to every lyric. It felt as if every word carried its own weight, and he skillfully conveyed the emotions behind each song, making them resonate deeply with the audience. I have always loved Stand’s music and Aaron’s voice but listening to him live absolutely blew me away. I had the chills throughout multiple songs!

Opening with the haunting ballad “Outside,” Aaron Lewis’ soulful vocals filled the venue and captured the hearts of every single person in attendance. The band moved seamlessly through their discography, playing crowd favorites like “It’s Been Awhile,” “So Far Away,” and “Epiphany.” The emotional intensity was palpable as fans sang along, connecting with the poignant themes of love, loss, and self-reflection present in Staind’s music.

The standout Staind moment of the night came during “Something to Remind You,” where Aaron Lewis left the crowd stunned with his raw and vulnerable performance. The atmosphere became electric, as if providing our own micro burst, as thousands of voices harmonized, creating a spine-tingling experience that will be etched in the memories of all those present.

After a brief intermission, the crowd eagerly awaited the arrival of Godsmack, the Boston-based powerhouse known for their intense performances and thunderous sound. The band is celebrating 25 years together!

As the lights dimmed, the crowd erupted in cheers as their curtain dropped and the unmistakable growl of lead singer Sully Erna echoed through the venue, pyrotechnics and all. They kicked off the show with their hit “Cryin’ Like a Bitch,” setting the tone for a night full of raw energy. Throughout their set, Godsmack unleashed a barrage of their biggest hits, including “Awake,” “Speak,” and “Voodoo.” The band’s chemistry on stage was undeniable, with guitarist Tony Rombola shredding away and bassist Robbie Merrill keeping the rhythm tight. The highlight of their performance was undoubtedly the drum battle between Sully Erna and drummer Shannon Larkin. The two engaged in a mind-blowing drum duel that left the audience speechless and cheering for more.

Winding down the evening, Sully sat at the piano as he played in support of one of their many charities, The Scars Foundation; which benefits mental health awareness, reminding us “that we are all imperfectly perfect”.

The Staind & Godsmack concert was an unforgettable night of rock and emotion. Both bands showcased their immense talent and ability to connect with their audience on a profound level. Godsmack’s heavy-hitting performance set the stage on fire, while Staind’s emotionally charged set struck a chord with every heart in the room. The combination of these two powerhouse bands made for a concert experience that will resonate with fans for years to come.

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

Boy George & Culture Club

Concert Reviews

July 26, 2023 – PNC Arts Center Holmdel, NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

A Timeless Explosion of Nostalgia and Artistry lit up the PNC Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ on Wednesday night.

Opening for Boy George were Howard Jones and Berlin which were the perfect setup, getting the audience in the mood as we were all thrown back to the 1980’s.

Howard Jones, the British synth-pop legend known for his trailblazing music in the 1980s, transported the audience on a captivating journey through time with a blend of classic hits and modern adaptations.

Jones performed classics like “Things Can Only Get Better” and “Life in One Day” which resonated with the audience, evoking fond memories of their youth. Perhaps one of the most touching moments of the evening was when Jones performed “No One Is to Blame.” The audience swayed in unison, moved by the heartfelt lyrics and the enduring message of hope and forgiveness. But it wasn’t all about reliving the past. Jones demonstrated his artistic growth by introducing new arrangements and reimagined versions of some songs, showcasing his musical evolution without losing the essence of the originals.

Following Howard Jones was the iconic Terri Nunn, frontwoman of the legendary band Berlin. With a career spanning decades and a voice that still resonates powerfully, Terri delivered a captivating performance that reminded us all why she remains an enduring figure in the music industry. From the very first note, it was evident that Terri’s voice had lost none of its power or allure. Her voice soared effortlessly through the venue, hitting high notes with precision and resonating with raw emotion. Nunn’s ability to convey both vulnerability and strength within her vocal delivery was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Terri and the band curated a setlist that catered to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Classics such as “Take My Breath Away” (of Top Gun fame) and “The Metro” elicited thunderous applause and sing-alongs from the crowd. Nunn also treated the audience to some newer material, demonstrating her continued creative evolution as an artist.

After Berlin, as the lights dimmed and the eager crowd settled into their seats, a wave of anticipation washed over the venue. The stage came alive with a burst of color and energy as Boy George and Culture Club gracefully made their entrance. It was a moment that transported the audience back to the iconic 1980s, a time when their music had captured the hearts of millions. This live performance was set to be a night of nostalgia and celebration of a band that continues to captivate audiences with their unique style and unmistakable talent.

The opening chords of “Next Thing Will Be Amazing” reverberated through the venue, instantly igniting the atmosphere. Boy George, the enigmatic front-man, looked as vibrant as ever with his signature flamboyant outfit, adorned with his iconic hat and makeup. His voice was in top form, and it was evident that time had done nothing to diminish his vocal prowess. The audience, a diverse mix of generations, sang along with fervor, proving that the songs of Boy George and Culture Club have truly transcended time.

Throughout the evening, the band delivered hit after hit, each song accompanied by incredible musicianship and contagious energy. From the groovy beats of “Karma Chameleon” to the heartfelt balladry of “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me,” the band had the crowd dancing, swaying, and emotionally engaged all at once. Beyond the undeniable chemistry between Boy George and Culture Club, the supporting musicians were outstanding, enhancing each song’s depth and adding their own flair to the performance. The saxophone was particularly impressive, adding a soulful touch to the band’s already eclectic sound.

Boy George’s magnetic presence on stage was captivating, as he effortlessly interacted with the audience, always with a smile, sharing stories and anecdotes between songs, speaking to the audience to “Let it Go” on this night, “relax, forget your troubles and enjoy the music that surrounds you”. His humor and wit had everyone laughing, creating an intimate atmosphere that made the audience feel like they were part of a special gathering rather than just spectators at a concert. He celebrated how long the band has been playing together and joked that “they didn’t break up for 4 years, they just didn’t talk each other”.

One of the standout moments of the night was their rendition of “Time (Clock of the Heart),” which left many in the audience teary-eyed and moved. Boy George’s emotional delivery and the band’s heartfelt performance struck a chord with fans, reinforcing the timeless quality of their music and its enduring emotional impact. It was a special time to see a live show as tributes were made to the recent passing of Sinéad O’Connor, as well as Mick Jagger’s 80^th (Yes 80!!) birthday, sighting that “the music will keep you young” as he went into a rendition of the Rolling Stones, “Sympathy for the Devil”.

As the concert reached its climax, the unmistakable intro of “I’ll Tumble 4 Ya” had the entire venue on its feet, dancing and celebrating the night away. Boy George and Culture Club had created a time warp that brought the audience back to the ’80s, and yet the magic of their music felt just as fresh and relevant as it did decades ago.

Boy George and Culture Club proved once again why they remain an iconic force in the music industry. Their live performance was a testament to their artistry, showmanship, and ability to bridge generations through their timeless music. The night was a celebration of nostalgia, love, and the enduring impact of a band that continues to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of their fans.

For more info please visit http://www.boygeorgeandcultureclub.net http://www.berlinpage.com http://www.howardjones.com

Counting Crows

Concert Reviews

July 6, 2023 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

The Grammy and Academy Award-nominated rock band Counting Crows have captivated us with their soulful tunes since their multi-platinum breakout album in 1993, “August and Everything After” selling more than 7 million copies in the United States.

The Counting Crows’ debut single, “Mr. Jones” was released 30 years ago. How ironic to make a song about how cool it would be to be famous only to have it come true and still valid after all this time.

Despite the blistering heat, the outdoor venue filled up quickly in anticipation of fans seeing their favorite band. Dashboard Confessional are joining Counting Crows on the “Banshee Season Tour” and what a great surprise it was to have Adam come out out to introduce them and say how happy he is to be on tour together as they are long-time friends and his favorite band.

The Counting Crows play with pure passion and stage presence. Every member of the band shows his love for their songs and for what they do. Adam Duritz’s intimate expressions as he delivers each song makes you feel connected. I feel that every one of us have our own personal stories that we go back to and reflect on as we hear these songs. The fans sure felt it and embraced it from the moment they stepped on stage until the very last note.

Formed in 1991, the band consists of Adam Duritz (vocalist), Charlie Gillingham (keyboards), David Immergluck (multi-instrumental), Dan Vickrey (guitar), David Bryson (guitar), Millard Powers (bass) and Jim Bogios (drums). The “Banshee Season Tour”kicked off on June 13th in Omaha, NE and will finish off at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, CO on September 25th.

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

Setlist

Round Here
Come Around
Mr. Jones
Colorblind
Butterly In Reverse
Omaha
Good Time
Catapult
God of Ocean Tides
Friend of The Devil
Big Yellow Taxi
Miami
Palisades Park
Rain King
A Long December
Time & Time Again (Encore)
So Long, So Long (Encore)
Hanginaround (Encore)
Holiday In Spain (Encore)

Alice In Chains

Concert Reviews

October 7, 2022 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

It was a beautiful fall evening in New Jersey as Alice In Chains, Breaking Benjamin, Bush & Plush closed out the summer schedule with the second to last performance at the PNC Bank Arts Center.

The talented all female band, Plush, opened the night with some great rock & roll. I’ve read that their mission is to bring rock back to the forefront of the music scene. The heavy guitar playing lady rockers are certainly driving that train in the right direction. They played for about half an hour and were a perfect opener to get the crowd amped up as rock fans filled the venue.

The 90’s alternative grunge rock band favorite Bush followed, and by the time Gavin Rossdale and team played their second song the Arts Center was packed and the amphitheater stayed that way for the entire night. Bush sounded great, played for about 45 minutes and mixed in a bunch of old and new. A few highlights for me were when Jerry Cantrell of Alice In Chains joined Bush for “Comedown” and another was when Gavin left the stage and paraded through the entire venue, from the orchestra all the way up to the deepest of lawn seats, singing the entire time and occasionally stopping for a hug, a hi-five and even a photo or two.

New Jersey born and Pennsylvania raised Benjamin Burnley IV of Breaking Benjamin followed. I have never seen them before but was familiar with their music and enjoyed their performance. Lead singer and guitar player Benjamin Burnley sounded great and belted some amazing rock and roll, mixed with the modern heavy metal screams to complete their unique sound. Many know that Burnley has a recurring illness (Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome), which is an acute brain disorder resulting from a lack of thiamine. This essential vitamin changes sugar into energy. When you have too little thiamine, your brain doesn’t have enough energy to work properly. The most common cause of thiamine deficiency is chronic alcohol use which in his case, almost ended his career. Burnley plays in the dark or without spot light or bright flashing lights in front of him due to the sensitivity of how his illness affects him. None-the-less, he doesn’t perform like he has a lack of anything and certainly not energy. Burnley played for an hour, spoke to the audience often and seemed grateful to be in front of his adoring fans, all of whom he defines as his home crowd. The band is comprised of Benjamin Burnley (lead vocals & rhythm guitar), Jasen Rauch (lead guitar & electronic strings), Keith Wallen (rhythm guitar & backing vocals), Aaron Bruch (bass & backing vocals), and Shaun Foist (drums & electronic percussion). They completely rocked the house and were a perfect tee-up for Alice In Chains.

Alice In Chains (AIC) then finally came to stage to finish out the night and were AWESOME! I’ve been a big Alice In Chains fan but unfortunately have never had the opportunity to see the original front man and co-founder of the band Layne Staley perform before his passing. To this day he lives on as any alternative rock station will play AIC with Layne’s vocals. However, I must say the band has come together wonderfully and filled a tough seat in Layne Staley with new front man William DuVall. Since 2006, DuVall has fronted Alice In Chains, sharing vocals and guitar with co-founding member Jerry Cantrell on three albums following the death of Layne Staley in 2002. Original AIC band member and co-founder Jerry Cantrell said about DuVall when hiring him that he already knew DuVall and told him to just be himself rather than emulating Staley. Jerry highlighted that Alice In Chains was always better with two vocals supporting each other, so they worked well with DuVall and it was apparent. Not only do they sound similar but DuVall also brings a new look and feel while still maintaining the bands hard alternative rock image. I loved the show and the performance as they played throughout the night. Gavin Rossdale of Bush returned the favor and joined AIC on stage for “Man in the Box” as the show wound down to its conclusion.

It was a great lineup and a perfect way to cap off a great summer of music at the PNC Bank Arts Center! I’m already looking forward to next season!

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

Setlist

Again
Check My Brain
Grind
Them Bones
Dam That River
Hollow
Down in a Hole
Angry Chair
Man in the Box
Nutshell
The One You Know
Bleed the Freak
No Excuses
Would?
Rooster

Shinedown

Concert Reviews

September 10, 2022 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

It was a beautiful late-summer night this past Saturday when multi-platinum, record-breaking band Shinedown visited the PNC Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ.

While having heard them all over the radio, I’ve never seen Shinedown before and was excited for this show as the band has achieved astronomical success. Shinedown were named #1 on Billboard’s Greatest Of All Time Mainstream Rock Artists Chart in 2021. They are now touring in support of their brand-new album, Planet Zero, with their biggest stage show yet. Shinedown’s “The Planet Zero World Tour” is accompanied by special guests Jelly Roll and John Harvie.

Newcomer John Harvie opened the evening supporting the release of his debut album “told-ya”. John put on a great performance and is a feel good fresh new talent in the pop-rock space. His personal lyrical storytelling is apparent with songs that communicate a positive message in support of anyone looking to pursue their dreams.

Jelly Roll, the Nashville native, opened for Shinedown blending hip-hop, rap, Southern rock, and a bit country – put on an incredible performance. The heavy set, face tattooed Jelly Roll has amassed tens of millions of streams and followers in the past couple of years and currently has a #1 on the charts in “Dead Man Walking”.

Planet Zero is produced by Shinedown’s Eric Bass, and is the latest addition to Shinedown’s record-breaking catalog that has earned the band recognition for their timely and relevant messages. Their chart-topping hits resonate with not only their global audience and the rock community, but the greater public and our culture at large. With more than 6.5 billion global streams, a Billboard record for the most mainstream rock #1 hits ever, platinum or gold certification for all their albums, 10 million albums sold, and major media praise, Shinedown has cemented their status as one of the most vital and forward-thinking powerhouses in music.

The band consists of Brent Smith (lead vocals), Zach Myers (guitar), Eric Bass (bass), and Barry Kerch (drums). Each member played with tremendous energy and had a unique presence of their own, but Brent impressed me as a true, powerful, front-man deserving of the accolades he receives. Brent sang with passion for the music and lyrics he belts and compassion for the full house of cheering fans who love and appreciate him and his music. Brent displays this appreciation often throughout his performance, making him a very likeable presence on stage. The bands high energy and well formulated sound, accompanied by poignant, relevant lyrics and explosive (literally, complete with pyrotechnics) stage presence captivated the audience from start to finish.

Just released July 1st via Atlantic Records, Planet Zero, the band’s seventh studio album, features the hard-hitting title track and lead single “Planet Zero,” which has received over 11 million streams and notched the band their 18th #1.

With over 6.5 billion global streams, 18 #1 Active Rock hits, 10 million albums sold worldwide, 14 platinum and gold singles, platinum or gold certification for ALL their albums, ALL 28 career singles reaching the Top 5 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Songs Chart, and countless sold-out arena tours, Shinedown have become an essential cultural force in music today as evidenced by their major media acclaim. Can’t wait to see them again!

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

Setlist

The Saints of Violence and Innuendo
Devil
Planet Zero
How Did You Love
45
Bully
The Crow & the Butterfly
Get Up
Enemies
Daylight
America Burning
Cut the Cord
Monsters
Second Chance
Diamond Eyes
Don’t Look Back in Anger
Simple Man
Sound of Madness

Rod Stewart

Concert Reviews

August 16, 2022 – PNC Bank Art Center, Holmdel NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

The Knighted, Sir Rod Stewart visited The Garden State, Tuesday night, August 16th at the PNC Arts Center and played for 2 hours to the sold out amphitheater. Cheap Trick joins Sir Rod as the opening act on their rescheduled North American tour, which was originally scheduled for 2020 but had to be postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

While the sold out crowd filled in for Sir Rod, there were still plenty of Cheap Trick fans excited to hear and see them play beforehand. While Cheap Trick are always great, there was something extremely noticeable missing from the stage that had everyone asking… where the hell is Rick Nielsen? It felt like a “Cheap Trick” to not have known Rick would be missing and with no word from the band on where he is. As an original founder of the band, his large presence and multi guitar swaps on stage were noticeably missing. The sound was a bit different too. It took me a while to find the reason, but my research informs me, and it’s rumored, that Rick is making up for lost family time, playing with his two sons and his daughter in law in their newly formed family band The Nielsen Trust. One can only assume that he may be taking a back seat to the Cheap Trick tour to spend time with his family who are all musicians and who he never really played with that often, due to all his time on the road over the many years. And those are Rick’s words I came across as he references The Nielsen Trust and his enjoyment in touring with family.

However, by the time the 77 year old Rod Stewart was to go on there was not an empty seat in the house. Yes, 77 and still at it and sounding as good as ever! I was a fan growing up and seeing him now was an enlightening refresher on remembering just how great he is. The uber talented singer and songwriter played all his hits throughout the entire 2 hours. And to his fans delight danced and moved about the stage with his iconic moves and striking poses. It was great to see. Apart from knowing every song and singing every word, as a more mature listener now, I was in awe with the lyrics to each song and what a creative writer he is with regard to the many hits he wrote. His raspy voice prevailed throughout the evening as the place erupted with cheers and applause at the conclusion to each song. As I absorbed each word and tune, it became clear to me that he’s embraced his age and who he is now. The music icon seems appreciative for the ability (and opportunity) to continue to perform. He sang each word to each song with a smile. He pointed to audience members, smiled with them, fist bumped a few and even tossed one of his hats to a lucky adoring fan. He soaked in every applause as if hugging the sound waves delivered to him in appreciation his fans have for the many years of entertainment he’s provided them all.

The stage design was great… shiny, and glossy-black almost looking like the floor was wet from a recent rain. The backdrop was set with cool LED images showing Rod throughout the years and joining him on stage were his female dancers/performers, a drummer, and one great harp player/percussionist, who plucked away rock & roll style. It was a cool set up.

Sir Rod mixed in some covers too and even opened the show with Robert Palmers “Addicted to Love”, utilizing his female dancers (one including his model and singer daughter, Ruby) dressed in black outfits holding white guitars resembling the iconic 80’s music video played frequently on MTV of early years.