review

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

Disturbed

Concert Reviews

April 2nd, 2025 – Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia PA

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

On April 2nd, 2025, Disturbed electrified the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia with a performance that was as much a celebration of their legacy as it was a testament to their enduring mastery in the heavy metal arena. The concert, part of their “The Sickness 25th Anniversary Tour,” featured a two-set format: a full rendition of their seminal debut album, The Sickness, with a 20 minute brief intermission followed by a selection of 8 of their greatest hits.​

To start the night was San Antonio based band Nothing More, fronted by Jonny Hawkins who transitioned from drummer to lead vocalist in 2008. Jonny performing shirtless and barefoot has becoming a hallmark of Nothing More’s live shows and they are renowned for their emotionally charged performances and innovative stagecraft. The band’s set featured tracks from their latest album, Carnal, including the emotionally resonant “Angel Song,” a collaboration with Disturbed’s David Draiman. This song, which has soared into the Top 10 on Active Rock radio charts, exemplifies Nothing More’s ability to blend heavy rock elements with profound lyrical themes.

Daughtry delivered a powerful opening set, delivering a performance that showcased frontman Chris Daughtry’s evolution from American Idol finalist to a commanding rock presence. His set was a compelling blend of vulnerability and intensity, reflecting the personal growth evident in the band’s recent EP, Shock to the System (Part One).​ The band’s sound has matured as well as Chris’s physical transformation, embracing a heavier, more introspective tone that resonated deeply with the audience. This “renewal” is a testament to Daughtry’s willingness to confront personal hardships and channel them into their music, creating a raw and authentic experience for fans.

Now it was time for Disturbed and it was only fitting to commence with a dramatic entrance: frontman David Draiman was wheeled onto the stage Hannibal Lecter-style, restrained in a straitjacket and face mask, setting a dark and intense tone for the evening. The stage was adorned with heavy metal scaffolding and dynamic lighting, creating an industrial atmosphere that complemented the band’s aggressive sound. The energy in the arena was palpable as the band delivered a powerful performance, celebrating 25 years of their groundbreaking debut album.​

Throughout the performance, pyrotechnics and special effects were employed strategically to amplify the energy of the music. During “Meaning of Life,” Draiman was theatrically strapped to an electric chair, simulating electrocution, which added a dramatic flair to the set.  The band’s mascot, “The Guy,” loomed behind the drum riser, contributing to the visual spectacle.​

The concert began with a full performance of The Sickness, transporting fans back to the early 2000s. Hearing tracks like “Stupify” and “Down With The Sickness” live reignited the raw intensity that first drew me to their music. I also loved their Tears for Fears cover of “Shout”, Draiman’s voice makes any song his own and always delivers. The second half of the show featured a selection of their greatest hits, including “Bad Man”, “Indestructible”, “Ten Thousand Fists” and “Inside the Fire.” A standout moment was their haunting rendition of “The Sound of Silence,” and when I say haunting I mean it in every sense of the word. Who else can command complete silence from their fans during a sold out show?

Frontman David Draiman’s supreme presence was evident from the outset. His vocal delivery, ranging from guttural growls to melodic passages, showcased his versatility and kept the audience engaged throughout the night. Guitarist Dan Donegan and bassist John Moyer didn’t skip a beat with their synchronized high jumps in the air with their guitars while drummer Mike Wengren’s energy never stopped and intensified as the show went on.

Disturbed’s enduring appeal and their ability to connect with fans across generations is evident at each show. I have been fortunate to photograph them for a few years and there has been no sign of slowing down and they only get better with each year, they really are unstoppable!

For more info please visit http://www.disturbed1.com http://www.daughtryofficial.com http://www.nothingmore.net

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

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

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

Live // Stone Temple Pilots

Concert Reviews

September 6, 2024 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

The PNC Bank Arts Center provided the perfect backdrop on this cool, late summer evening as Holmdel NJ hosted a ’90s rock trifecta as three iconic bands—Soul Asylum, Stone Temple Pilots, and LIVE were about to take the stage for a night to remember on The Jubilee Tour celebrating the 30th Anniversary of “Throwing Copper” and “Purple.”

I’ve been a fan of these three since my 20’s.  They populate many of my playlists to this day so I was excited to not only experience these bands live but also be in the fortunate position to review them. Each band brought their unique flair, making it a whirlwind through some of the most influential music of their era.

Soul Asylum had the shortest set list of the night but that certainly didn’t stop them from delivering a high energy performance to remember, kicking off the evening with their signature blend of grunge and alternative rock. Opening with “Somebody to Shove” they immediately tapped into the crowd’s collective memory, eliciting a wave of cheers and sing-alongs. The band’s energy was palpable, led by Dave Pirner’s distinctive voice and engaging stage presence. Hits like “Black Gold” and “Runaway Train” followed, each delivered with a mix of nostalgia and fresh intensity. Pirner, ever the charismatic frontman, shared anecdotes and interacted with the audience, making it clear that despite the years, Soul Asylum remains a formidable live act.

Stone Temple Pilots took the stage next, and the atmosphere shifted to an even higher gear. The band’s set was a masterclass in ’90s rock, opening with “Meatplow” followed immediately by the high-octane hit “Vaseline”.  Admittedly not the same without Scott Weiland, Jeff Gutt led the charge on vocals with confidence and charisma as the band delivered an impressive performance that balanced reverence for their past hits with a fresh, dynamic energy. Gutt’s voice, while distinctly different from Weiland’s, brought its own compelling intensity to classics like “Plush” and “Interstate Love Song.” The crowd was on their feet, lost in the raucous joy of familiar tunes, and the band’s tight musicianship and vibrant performance were a testament to their enduring appeal.

LIVE took the stage next to complete the circle with their powerful and emotive rock sound. They opened with “Top” followed by “All Over You” and it was clear from the first notes that the crowd was deeply engaged. Ed Kowalczyk’s commanding voice and the band’s richly layered sound made for a captivating experience. The setlist was a journey through their greatest hits, including “I Alone” and “The Dolphin’s Cry”, and closing with “Lightning Crashes.” Kowalczyk’s heartfelt delivery and the band’s impeccable musicianship resonated deeply with fans, and their performance felt both nostalgic and invigorating as we all sang along.

For each band, the visual and sonic elements of the show complemented the performance perfectly. The lighting design enhanced the mood of each song, shifting from the intense, pulsating lights, to some more subdued, atmospheric hues. The backdrops also complemented the lighting well as trippy, outer space type scenes shifted in and out with each note.

Overall, the evening was a throwback to my earlier days and made for a wonderful celebration of ’90s rock, with each band delivering performances that were both true to their classic sound and infused with a renewed energy. It was a night of three titans, each showcasing powerful vocals, and a shared appreciation for the music that defined a generation.

For more info please visit http://www.livetheband.com http://www.stonetemplepilots.com http://www.soulasylum.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

Bush

Concert Reviews

August 21, 2024 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ

Review & Photography by Estelle Massry

PNC Bank Arts Center welcomed British rock band Bush back for their “Loaded: The Greatest Hits” Tour, celebrating their 30th anniversary. It was a cool summer night but it didn’t take long for the night to heat up.

The night kicked off with Bones UK, the Grammy nominated rock band form Camden Town, London. The band consists of lead vocalist/guitarist Rosie Bones, Carmen Vandenberg on guitars, and drummer Heavy. Their set was filled with heavy rock riffs and rough-edged electronics. You could feel their edgy confidence throughout the venue and you immediately got hooked.

Seattle based rock band Candlebox soared onto the stage and the fans went wild. Kevin Martin, the band’s lead vocalist and the only original member still with the group, was pumped with energy from the moment he stepped on stage. His voice, a unique blend of power and vulnerability, was as compelling as ever, capturing the raw emotion that has always been at the core of Candlebox’s music. His stage presence was high energy and he engaged with the fans nonstop throughout the entire show, throwing guitar pics, shaking hands and signing drum sticks. Being a long-time fan of the band, this concert was particularly special, a poignant reminder of why Candlebox has held a cherished place in the hearts of so many over the past three decades.

Throughout the set, the band delivered a well-curated mix of their greatest hits and fan favorites. Songs like “Far Behind” and “You” brought the crowd to life, with many singing along to every word. These tracks, which were massive hits in the early ’90s, still resonate deeply with fans, and hearing them live was a powerful experience and filled the venue with a mix of melancholy and nostalgia.

Next up was Jerry Cantrell. An unforgettable experience for fans of the legendary guitarist and Alice in Chains co-founder. As someone who has followed Cantrell’s career for years, this concert was a dream come true. It was a night filled with raw emotion, masterful guitar work, and a setlist that perfectly encapsulated his incredible career.

From the moment Cantrell took the stage, the atmosphere was electric. The crowd erupted as he launched into the first notes of “Psychotic Break”. The Setlist was a well- balanced mix of his solo work and classic Alice In Chains staples like “Them Bones,”, “Got Me Wrong”, “Would?” and the iconic “Rooster”. His guitar work was as precise and emotive as ever, with every note resonating through the venue. The tone of his guitar, paired with his hauntingly melodic voice, created an ambiance that was both intense and deeply moving.

The night began with an energy that only built as the show progressed. Gavin Rossdale, the band’s charismatic frontman, was in top form, commanding the stage with his raw vocal power and dynamic presence. Rossdale’s energy was contagious, and it was clear that both he and the band were genuinely enjoying themselves, which only added to the concert’s vibrant atmosphere.

One of the most memorable moments of the night was when Rossdale ventured into the crowd during “Little Things,” a move that sent the audience into a frenzy. His willingness to engage directly with fans highlighted the band’s commitment to making each concert a unique experience. One thing you can say for certain is that Rossdale does not stop moving and gives his all at every show.

Chris Traynor on guitar, Corey Britz on bass, and Nik Hughes on drums provided a solid backbone, driving the performance forward with a tight, cohesive sound. The lighting and stage production were also top-notch, enhancing the mood of each song and adding a visual punch to the performance. A the start of “Swallowed” the lighting significantly changed, showcasing only Gavin as he stood alone in the center of the stage giving us all a very raw solo performance of this beautiful song.

The band has managed to stay relevant by continuously producing music that resonates with both old and new fans alike. Bush still has the motivation to put out music with the same power and integrity that they did in 1994. those who have followed Bush since the ’90s, the concert was a thrilling trip down memory lane. For newer fans, it was a chance to experience the raw energy and passion that has kept Bush at the forefront of rock music for so many years.

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

Setlist

  1. Everything Zen
  2. Machinehead
  3. Bullet Holes
  4. The Chemicals Between Us
  5. Greedy Fly
  6. Quicksand
  7. All Things Must Change
  8. The Sound of Winter
  9. Swallowed
  10. Heavy Is the Ocean
  11. Flowers on a Grave
  12. Little Things
  13. More Than Machines (Encore)
  14. Come Together (Encore)
  15. Glycerine (Encore)

Sammy Hagar

Concert Reviews

July 27th, 2024 – PNC Bank Arts Center

Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry

The PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ buzzed with excitement on a warm July evening as rock legend Sammy Hagar came to town on his, “The Best of All Worlds Tour”. Known for his high-octane performances and unrelenting energy, Hagar delivered a show that lived up to his reputation and then some!

Before Hagar took the stage, Loverboy set the PNC ablaze with their signature brand of 80s rock flair, delivering a high-energy performance that perfectly primed the crowd for Sammy and his All-Star lineup. Known for their infectious hooks and iconic hits, the Canadian rockers brought a burst of nostalgia with tracks like “Working for the Weekend” and “Turn Me Loose,” showcasing their enduring appeal. Frontman Mike Reno’s charismatic presence and the band’s tight, polished sound had the audience on their feet, proving that Loverboy’s classic rock credentials still shine brightly.

When Sammy Hagar hit the stage it was like a high-octane rock ‘n’ roll time machine with an absolutely stellar lineup that defied the limits of genre and era. Featuring Hagar himself, legendary bassist Michael Anthony, powerhouse drummer Jason Bonham, and guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani, the concert was a thrilling showcase of rock prowess and camaraderie loaded with all the Van Halen favorites.

The crowd, a mix of long-time fans and new converts, erupted as the lights dimmed and the opening riff of Van Halen’s “Good Enough” ripped through the venue. Hagar, ever the showman at 76, was in top form. His voice, still robust and energetic, commanded the stage with the charisma that has defined his career.

Michael Anthony, with his signature bass lines and harmonies, provided a solid foundation, effortlessly blending with Hagar’s dynamic presence. His backing vocals on tracks like “Why Can’t This Be Love” and his lead vocals on “Aint Talkin’ bout Love” were spot-on, reminding the audience of his integral role in Van Halen’s heyday.

Jason Bonham, behind the drums, was a thunderous force. His father, John Bonham, is a legendary figure in rock history, and Jason’s performance was a testament to his own formidable talent. His drumming on “When It’s Love” and vocals on “Best of Both Worlds” was both powerful and precise, delivering a rhythmic punch that drove the band’s high-energy performance.

Eddie Van Halen’s shoes are not easy ones to fill.  In fact, virtually impossible! It takes a special guitarist to be able to replicate the difficult guitar riffs and runs of Eddies mastery but Joe Satriani delivered the goods in spades! His guitar solos were nothing short of mesmerizing. Satriani’s virtuosic playing on the loaded Van Halen set list and covering classics like “Satch Boogie” showcased why he’s revered as one of the greatest guitarists of our time. The interplay between Satriani’s intricate solos and Hagar’s raw, dynamic vocals created a thrilling contrast, highlighting the versatility and depth of the bands sound.

As a Van Halen lover, the massive 23 song setlist was a rock fan’s dream, blending classic hits with deep cuts. The crowd was treated to a nostalgic journey through Hagar’s career, including Van Halen favorites, a Montrose song, and some of his solo work. Highlights included a rousing rendition of “I Can’t Drive 55,” where the audience sang along with gusto, and included many poignant tributes to Eddie Van Halen where Satriani’s guitar work shone in a heartfelt homage.

The energy in the PNC Arts Center was electric. The band’s camaraderie and mutual respect were evident in every interaction, both on and off the stage. Hagar’s anecdotes of personal touches and humor made the night feel like an intimate gathering among old friends.  His engagement with the crowd was one like I’ve never seen. He was slapping hands, signing autographs on any item thrown on stage and retuning them to their rightful owner, and even opening a bottle of tequila and pouring shots for thirsty fans looking for that up close and personal experience. Sammy was extremely engaging and generous and one can see the pride he has for who he is, what he does and the impact he has on Van Halen fans Worldwide.  He said it best and lived up to his words when he mentioned at the top of the show that, “this is not a concert, it’s a celebration!” 

AND a celebration it was! The concert closed with an encore of “Jump” and “When It’s Love” that left fans cheering for more. As the final notes faded, the crowd didn’t have to give a standing ovation as we were on our feet the entire time, and extremely appreciative of a night that blended nostalgia with virtuosity.

In all, Sammy, Michael, Joe & Jason delivered a performance that was both a celebration of rock’s past and a reminder of its enduring power. It was a night that proved, once again, that rock ‘n’ roll isn’t just a genre—it’s a timeless, exhilarating experience and yes, a “celebration”!

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