(The band - vocalist/guitarist Scott Gould, bassist Kenny Varner, guitarist Drew Reindollar and drummer Matthew Reindollar)
New off of Roadrunner’s Records label, MADAM ADAM self-titled debut album definitely has the potential to be at the forefront of the modern rock music world.It’s great to hear all these new bands with solid albums placing them as contenders to their contemporaries.
Hailing from Charleston, South Carolina this four-man band rocks hard. Lead singer Scott Gould has a great voice. It is scratchy yet powerful, lending their songs rough eloquence and edginess so wanted in the rock genre.They will appeal to all ages, from those who grew up to the classic rock of yesterday to the modern rock of today.
Falling from Grace – reminds me of some great anthems from Breaking Benjamin. The melodies and harmonies - so classic of Break Ben - mingle in this song. Being just the second song on the album, it certainly caught my attention with a desire to continue on the next track.
The lyrics are not complicated lines of prose, but catchy enough to get into, with some deep messages.Forgotten comes to mind with words such as “traumatic wounds, ugly abuse didn’t know the heart was made for that, is love in bloom or dead in the womb, paint my picture black….”
Still with such images coming to mind, their songs are an instant head bobber, even in their more ballad-like tunes. If you are familiar with mix master producer Skidd Mills, then you are probably fans of Saving Abel, Saliva, Skillet (whom we got to see one of their debut concerts and knew they would go places) and Sick Puppies.
In their entirety, MADAM ADAM is solid in both lyrics and instrumentals. What I had hoped for was a few more risks in their music that truly stamps them as brand new sound in the rock world. Just from listening, I know they are capable of achieving some awesome sounds and their love of music will push them to go even further in their future endeavors. I am eager to hear what will come from them next. Fans will definitively gravitate to their sound and hard-hitting tunes and from what I hear, but yet to experience, excellent performances.
Keep up with all that MADAM ADAM is currently doing on their website at
Edited and Interviewed by Morris Goodwin and Chelsey Goraczkowski of STILLCODA
As we enter the dressing room, we're instantly embraced by a band we've known since their beginning. That crazy summer of Halestorm shows around the Midwest now returns to us on a much grander scale. They're right where they belong: sharing the main stage with some of music's most talented bands. We knew they'd get here and here they are!
STILLCODA: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU FACE AS A BAND?
Finding the catering! (laughs) All the smells and seeing the signs, but its nowhere in sight and we are hungry and no one can figure it out!
L: But you know, to keep a band together it takes a lot of time. I think in earlier years it was a little bit harder. We didn’t know each other quite well back in the day, but for the most part its easier to keep the band together because everybody is on the same page now. Still there are always challenges. Once you think you’ve had everything figured out, then there is something pains or and effects our day, like how to sell records, how to be creative and writing new songs and definitely the politics.
J: Today to be a band you have to do 4 or 5 times the work whereas a band 10 years ago hadn’t had to do so much
A: And that more work for a quarter of the results. It’s not always about the music. You have to be so much more than the band and as a whole
STILLCODA: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR THOUGHTS YOU HAVE WHEN YOU GUYS FIND OUT YOU’RE PLAYING FEST/TOURS?
L: Our first thought that goes through our head was this was the first date on the Uproar Tour and when we scored this spot, we were saying ‘what were they thinking!’ (laughs) Yah know… Somebody really screwed up. I mean, we are on the main stage and I’m not saying that we don’t believe in what we do, but with everything that happens it really blows our mind that we are here. This is quite the lineup on this tour that you probably won’t see again. All these bands under one tour, it’s kind of a once in a lifetime career thing.
J: Its surreal!
J2: It’s kinda a lot to even just go and watch, let alone be on it.
L: It definitely blows our minds.
STILLCODA: TALKING ABOUT OTHER TOURS, WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU PICKED UP WATCHING OTHER BANDS AND BEING A PART OF THE EXPERIENCE?
L: The fact that we need more pyro! The great thing about being with all these bands that have done it for years and years and years and are on this level and we are here, it’s like being a freshman in college from being a senior in high school. We are now freshman. We are getting hazed all over again, but it’s wonderful because its like being inducted into this old boys group with their exclusive club. And all these people have so much wisdom. We’ve been talking to Vinnie Paul a lot from Hell Yeah and he has so many great stories and all those boys have such good advice.
J: To get somebody like Vinnie Paul who we’ve looked up to our whole lives to come and say that he likes what we do is pretty mind boggling and these amazing people, the Hell Yeahs, the Avenged Sevenfolds, Disturbed and Stone Sours, they think of us as their peers and that just blows our minds. It’s very humbling.
L: Its not even so much the music, because everyone is such an amazing musician and we have learned a lot from that, but just as people, its really cool to see people who could be prima donnas and want green skittles and all that stuff, we would be fine with it. They’ve earned it, but they aren’t. They are these great down to earth people that reminds us that if and when we ever get to that point (of greatness) we don’t want to be like them.
STILLCODA: PIGGY BACKING OFF THAT, MUSIC ALWAYS HAS A PURPOSE FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL. TELL US ABOUT YOUR PURPOSE. WHAT DOES IT BRING TO YOU?
L: For me personally, I don’t know who I’d be. It became my identity at an early age. It’s become part of who I am. I don’t think I’d be the same person without it. With every year and the more I am in it, it becomes inadvertently your religion, your therapy, the way you define yourself and also how you learn. It kicks you in your butt and you learn more about yourself, though this (the tour) and through music…I need this.
J2: I think music is twofold. You can’t escape it. You see people try and you see the old guys in the bars playing. They should and they try to get away from it and you can’t.
A: It started out as an obsession. It was the only thing that we wanted to do growing up. It was tunnel vision. We knew what we wanted to do and now its evolved where all these kids and people come up to us and you get inspired to play by them watching us and that alone encourages us to keep going.
STILLCODA: NOW THAT “HALESTORM” THE ALBUM HAS BEEN OUT FOR A WHILE, WHAT THE REACTION YOU’VE NOTICED, NOT ONLY WHEN YOU PLAY BUT WHEN FANS COME UP TO YOU?
A: Intensity.
J2: It’s been really great. People come to have a really good time, with us and the people around them. The only thing I can remember, there was one show where people were going nuts and kicking each other’s butt. That’s one thing that some people do when watching a metal show. But a lot of people don’t do that when they come to our shows. They rock out and have a great time. It weird’s me out when you see people getting hurt right in front of me. You can’t even listen to the music at the shows, its crazy, but generally they come and have a great time.
L: They are really respectful at our shows and they feel the same way we do. Rock shows are supposed to be about being together. Its’ not us and them, it’s all of us. From a lyrical standpoint, we wrote this record and me being the lyric person you write these songs very selfishly. You write them about you ‘cause you have something to say, but the great thing is now I’m seeing over the past year and a half, its’ there’s (fans). It’s about them and all of a sudden I’m seeing in a room full of people that are just like me and think like me… It’s so incredibly humbling. It’s been an amazingly overwhelming response to the meaning of these songs and to hear the stories…we’re touching people, we’re talking and its neat.
STILLCODA: THE DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL! WHAT WAS THE EXPERIENCE LIKE?
J2: We got there a day early and got the chance to see Pretty Vultures and ACDC perform which was pretty cool. The next day was really busy with a lot press and didn’t get to see to many bands that day, but most of them were from Rock on the Range. But it was really awesome to see some of the other bands.
STILLCODA: KINDA JEALOUS NOT GONNA LIE
J: A lot of people had no clue who we were. We were pretty much brand new at the time. A few did come back from our first Euro club run we did, but it was an incredible crowd. They love to party.
L: Yeah, just crazy in the pit In between songs, especially when we did the echo (hey hoo)
A: When we did the drum solo and only in Europe and the UK do they clap. Not only did the clap, they shouted (oye oye oye!) It was the most coolest sound I ever heard. It got me so pumped up and I was speeding up. It was amazing.
STILLCODA: YOU GUYS PLANNING ON GOING BACK?
A: Oh yeah, We’re on the Taste of Choas Tour, I think with Buckcherry, Disturbed, Papa Roach, so many others after this tour and we are going to Japan for a show to do a special and we’re pretty excited to do that and then flying all the way to Europe.
STILLCODA: YOU GUYS GOTTA ENJOY SOME OF THE FINER JAPANESE EATERYWHAT’S ONE THING YOU WANT TO EXPERIENCE WHILE WATCHING YOUR SHOW?
A great time, intensity and some oye oye! MAKE SURE TO CATCH HALESTORM ON THE 2010 ROCKSTAR UPROAR TOUR!! KEEP UPDATED ON ALL THE BAND HAPPENINGS AT:
Late one night, I was doing my usual concert searches when I got an email and a text message saying that there was this tour coming my way. All I got in the email was the venue, First Ave. Then as I looked at the date on the site, my pulse went up and my eyes got huge. Who do I find on the calendar for this date? A defying list of noteworthy bands that are finally put together on one bill: Bullet For My Valentine, Chiodos, Airbourne and Arcanium. I instantly knew this was one of those shows that you would never want to miss out on. And I was completely right.
On stage first is a band from Colorado called Arcanium. In all honesty, no one had really heard of the band but knew that if they were on the same bill as BFMV they had to be good. And prove their worth they did. A little death metal or hardcore metal for some of you, Arcanium brought energy, charisma, talent and personality to the stage. Getting the crowds involvement is a hard thing to do when you’re the opening set. It didn’t phase this band at all. They drew the crowd in and delivered a great performance. Before they part the stage, the crowd yells their phrases and rush over to the merch table. They have a bright future ahead of them and Minneapolis will welcome them back anytime.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence
and entertainment-
8/10
Next to appear, is a band well known throughout Australia but has made a name for themselves here in the States: Airbourne. I spoke with Airbourne a few hours before the show doing an interview (check out the page for the interview!). What was to be expected: a hellva great time. Airbourne’s visited the Twin Cities before on different tours and have never let the crowd down for a show stopping adventure. Tonight, that’s no different. Killing the show with nonstop guitar rifts and vocals, every member of the band throws a little of themselves into each note made. The house is already banging their heads and fist pumps are everywhere. In the middle of one song Joel, lead signer, jumps off stage and climbs the stairs off to the side. Hanging over the railing on the landing, he grits out the most wicked guitar solo the crowd’s seen! Never one to not surprise the crowd, this is one of the signature moves Airbourne brings to the table. Or bar top, speakers, stairs, or anything else Joel can stand on.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence
and entertainment-
8.5/10
Next to hit the stage is a band best described as hardcore. That’s the only word that truly makes the most sense. The crowd is already pushing and chanting “Chiodos” to the point of moshing more than just bodies. As soon as the band appears, the crowd goes insane! Teenagers are actually beating past the other generations of people to get to the front. I nod my head in salute to their daring in all honesty. Lights go out then burst back on in a flourish dance of color and dominating presence. Then the band plays. I’ve been to more than my share of concerts and covered bands of various “measures.” The crowds vary with each show but this one…wow. Only after 2 songs, the entire house has lost it’s mind. As I get out of range of fire from everyone, I see how this band ensnares it’s fans so easily. What a power to have. As they continue ripping the stage, I realize this is how the band has made such a name for itself: they don’t hold back. Ever. Show stopping and jaw dropping, Chiodos has opened doors and eyes throughout the music world. Even after they play the last song, the crowd chants “One more song” for several minutes afterwards. If only the show could last forever, their wish would have been granted. My conclusion of Chiodos: hardcore.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence
and entertainment-
9/10
The heat turns up, there’s only inches from one person to the next and “Bullet! Bullet! Bullet!” is being called. The excitement builds until it explodes as they finally walk the stage. Instant stimulation of every sense a person has is being tested. Your eyes are given a feast: strobe lights, colors and your favorite band. Your ears are treated with your favorite songs. Your voice is lost among the rest. Your temperature rises and sweat drips off your face. All your other senses, well…they’re combined until you’re overloaded. It’s a blissful thing and the crowd is thriving on it. BFMV starts off with “Your Betrayal” then hits with other crowd favorites like “Fever,” “Waking the Demon,” “Tears Don’t Fall,’ “The Last Fight,” and “Scream, Aim, Fire.” The security in the pits has their hands full of crowd surfers coming from every direction while watching the moshers push their worries away. I walk up to the second level and what you see there is even more than what you think you see on the ground level. The entire place is moving like bees on a beehive. It’s a crazy mass of energy that intensifies with every song. The band exits the stage but only to return to favor the crowds outburst for more. BFMV graces us with “Begging For Mercy,” “Hand of Blood” and “Alone.” Nothing compares to seeing a band play for their crowd. Even as the concert ends, people are still smiling while recalling their favorite parts of the night. Some of them are even worse for wear but act as if that is exactly what they went there for. Bullet.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-
10/10
Make sure and check out each band along with this show stopping tour!
I’ve been beyond fortunate enough throughout my career to see some gifted bands play. It only gets better when these bands collide and create one massive Rock show. It doesn’t matter who the headliner is in this case for it’s the opening bands that create the environment for that band. It’s always the anticipation that gets to you as you’re looking for the bands that are opening these huge shows. Sometimes it’s a little of “Awesome! I know all these bands!” or “I know that one, but not the other one…” In this case, it doesn’t matter. All that matters, is that you’re about to get your face rocked off with: Sick Puppies, Shinedown and Breaking Benjamin.
I remember seeing Sick Puppies back in the day when they were first touring around the US with Finger 11 and various other artists. From the first few songs, I was hooked. This 3 person band from Australia brings more rock than some American bands. I only say that because they can prove it many times over. Opening for 3 major acts can be intimidating for some bands, but they handled it like pros and acted as it didn’t matter what size the crowd nor venue was. They’d still put on a hellva great show. Mixing a couple of old songs off their record “Dressed up as Life” and “Tri-Polar,” the crowd got a good mix of how they’ve gotten so far and where they’re going. The only thing I wished for their set was for them to have a larger set list. Once you get a taste of the music, it makes you want more.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-8/10
In the world of madness, a band has always announced itself as one of its creations: Shinedown. With 3 widely known CD’s, Shinedown is known for their masterful vocals, defying guitar rifts, mood changing bass and tempo creating drums. I’ve watched them over the years as well and every time seeing them only gets better. They keep with their signature style while revolutionizing the way they bring the show. Never ones to shy away from anything, Shinedown reintroduced Minnesota to what real music is and how it’s evolved. Always humble, they graciously share the stage with every band they’ve ever played with while remembering those we’ve lost in months/years past. The soulful vibes this band brings to the table is one to give you shivers and remind you real musicians are born, not made.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-9/10
I’ve seen Breaking Benjamin 3 times just this year and no matter how many times I see or talk about them, the response is always the same: Brilliant. I’m leaving this review as simple as I can. If you want the details, check out the previous reviews.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-9/10
It never ceases to amaze me that no matter how long you’ve followed a band, been a fan for years; listened to their CD’s to non-existence; then to finally seeing them live, you’re still in awe. You hear stories from fans all over the world saying their perspectives on the band and it still doesn’t hit home until you’re there, standing amongst the crowds. I can say there are several bands that go in this list but I can only speak for one band that stands out in my mind: KoRn.
I think I stood there with my mouth open the first few songs until I was able to think properly. Out of all those accounts you’ve heard, no one else’s will compare to your own view. No matter the history or problems any band has, what matters is the music and show they put on. Of course playing the crowds favorite songs doesn’t hurt either. From “Coming Undone,”“Freak on a Leash,” to “Falling Away From Me,” “Throw Me Away,” “Somebody Someone” to even an encore with “Clown”, “Shoots and Ladders” and “Got the Life;” everyone got exactly what they expected plus more. Playing these songs is only one part, the other part is the energy the give and receive. The arena is one family and is sharing the moment together. JD also gifts us with something so uniquely him, it leaves little question to why we love this band. One word: bagpipe. If you’ve never seen this, you’re missing out on something amazing, words can barely describe it. So I don’t think I’ll even try to.
There’s always a lot of talk and hype made for every band that comes around. No matter how long they’ve been around or what they bring to the table, it’s the nature of people. For once, I’ll say the rumors are true: KoRn is one band you HAVE to see and will thank me for it later.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and ente
Whenever a show comes to the area, most people have about 3 reactions once they see the bands listed: I’m going. I wish I could go but damn work! Hmm, this sounds like a good show but I’ve never seen these bands live before. Tonight was a night of firsts for a few people. 2 of the 3 reactions came across a 15yr olds face when I told him who I was taking him to see for his very first concert. Who better for a “newbie” (as us seasoned people like to call them), to see for their first concert than 3 phenomenal local bands and one jaw dropping national band? I think that’s one fine list to me. So this time, I’m taking us through memory lane and describing the show as you would see it through a newbie’s eyes. My only reaction: awe inspiring. Tonight’s list: Far From Falling, Throw the Fight, Action Blast and RED. Like I said, one hell of a great line up if I say so myself.
First to open the show is Far From Falling. A local band from Minneapolis, this band starts the show off with vocals and beats that draw the eyes and ears. Even this early in the show, the crowd has come to show support. Most of the time, when we think of local bands, we think “Well, they could be good if…” Not this time. We KNOW this band is good and is making it just by listening to them play. Lighting and fog effects edged with soul moving vocals, gifted guitar players, rhythm making bass and beat making drums shows us just that. Each band member gets lost in the moment and as a part of the crowd, you feel it in the music.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-8.5/10
Next to perform is Throw the Fight. Another local band from the area, TTF opens their show with a bang. You instantly notice 3 guitar players versus the normal 2 and see the energy each member brings to the table. Introducing tunes we’ve heard on the radio and ones that we haven’t, TTF offers a variety of beats to get the blood moving. The crowd involvement picks up and soon it’s a great show by this band.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-8/10
Up next is The Action Blast from Chicago. After only being together since December 2009, it’s impressive to see them already sharing the stage with National acts. As the first few songs play, a small but aggressive mosh pit begins. The first pit of the night to become something energy building while adding to the anticipation of what’s to happen next. The show continues and the crowd gets larger. AB notices and steps it up a notch and gets the crowd involved in a song. As one, the entire place picks it up a step and is excited all over again.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-8/10
Last, but not least, is RED. The crowd is thick with people and tension builds as they wait for this one band to appear. Lights dim and the real music begin. Pushing through the crowd to the front is what seems to be everyone’s prerogative. Kicking off their show, RED plays fan favorites ranging from “Fight Inside,” “Already Over,” Overtake,” “Pieces” and so many more. As you look around, every single person is singing each note of every song. The music is drawing out everything every person has to give right at that moment. Just like Michael, Anthony, Randy and Joe are giving to us. As “Pieces” begins, Randy plays the keyboard and all eyes are riveted on his hands. As Anthony and Michael begin their portion, you get lost in the moment, lighters appear and hands are in the air. Amongst the cheering, tunes change to a remix of certain well known songs with familiar beats. Everyone leaves the stage and Joe appears at his drum kit. While the remix is played, he creates the beat of each song and needless to say, the effect is jaw dropping. The faster he goes, the more the trance he holds over on everyone. In all of the drum solos I’ve ever seen, I have never seen one with this type of mix or feeling. From the newbie’s stand point, none other will compare to this one. The rest of the band appears and plays a few more songs and the crowd goes even wilder. The vocals Michael and Randy present, give a new meaning to the balance you need to have as a band. The enthusiasm Anthony gives while moving all around the stage, reminds you to move yourself. Joe’s constant beats give you a measure that only you can feel. As they walk off the stage, chanting begins for “One more song!” and “RED RED RED!” Even being apart of the crowd, you know the band has to be smiling from ear to ear just hearing this. It’s louder than anything and only few bands gets this type of response. Instead of gracing us with one more song, they give us two, “Ordinary World” and “Breathe Into Me.” As the show ends, the appreciation and love this band has for their fans is seen in their faces. The meet and greets begin and the night closes to an end. For someone who has never seen this band or any band play live before, it is one memory you’ll always remember and smile back on. The response from the newbie was quite simply, “Wow. That was AMAZING!”
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-10.5/10
What comes to your mind when you think of concerts? What bands do you want to share the stage with each other? What is it that you’re looking for in a great show? I have a prime example of all these things and more. Although, in all honesty, I really only need to say two bands and the answers are clear: Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper. See? All those images and thoughts that are flickering in your mind right now is exactly what I’m talking about. The Gruesome Twosome tour is everything and more.
To kick off the night, Alice Cooper and his band mates kick off the show. He has always been known for his stage theatrics and he definitely doesn’t disappoint. Balloons filled with confetti are bounced around and popped all over the crowds: they revel in it. Swords, leather, stage hands, a nurse, whips, deaths and so much more are being filed in everyone’s minds. There’s nothing better than seeing an iconic rock star “killing” on stage in more ways than one! But then again, you would expect nothing less coming from Cooper. Upon entering the crowd and watching the expressions being given, you know there’s some dreams coming true. Whether it’s seeing Cooper on stage for the first time, seeing theatrics that include more than 3 “deaths” or just being able to say “I went to THAT show,” you know this is going to be a night everyone will remember. I talked with some friends and found out that they’ve seen Cooper live several times over the years. Their response, “You always know it’s going to be a great show and you never leave disappointed.” Everyone that’s here will agree. I for one will forever have the pleasure of saying I got to see Alice Cooper perform like none other.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment- 9.5/10
As the stage is being hidden by a large black drape, you immediately wonder, “What’s happening next?!” There are very few times where you’ll see the stage being covered while equipment is being changed and the next set is being put up. The crowd packs in closer and waits eagerly for the lights to dim. Among the Zombie and Cooper shirts pressed in on one another, a little boy of about 7 is grinning from ear to ear off to the side. His dad is standing behind him pointing things out. Even at such a young age, it’s awesome to know that kids enjoy music just as much as the adults. And the show begins. Three large flat screens are seen with the drum kit on top. The music starts and all hell breaks loose. Rob Zombie appears. I didn’t think more hell could break loose, but apparently I learned there’s always a little more room for it to grow. Between the flat screens lighting shows, pyros and beats, the crowd gets lost in the moment. As Zombie runs all over the stage, you never question the energy that he alone brings to the table. As each song is sang, the atmosphere is charged and the show begins anew. Now everyone knows from seeing Zombie live, why he’s made a name for himself in the music community as one of the best acts to see. If you haven’t seen him live, what are you waiting for?! -My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment- 10/10
The Minneapolis music scene is always a combination of Local and National bands rolling through. No matter the genre of music, there’s always someone touring through the country and stopping in our artistic city. Some differ on what shows are the best, which bands sound amazing and also which have the most intriguing stage presence of them all. With all the venues in the Twin Cities areas, one is visited by some amazing talent every so often. Tuesday was no difference in this case. Coming to town was Three Days Grace, Chevelle and Adelitas Way. Of course, all of these gifted bands have been here before, but not together on a tour like this one.
Most concerts, the same type of actions happen. Most fans don’t show up to the show until the second band hits the stage, but not this time. Adelitas Way kicks off the concert with grace and hard edged sounds. People are instantly gravitating towards the stage and packing themselves together. Each member is electrifying to watch, each grabbing the attention of each fan in the crowd. Their sound is crisp, the stage energy is through the roof and the concert starts off as a huge success. There’s a lot to be said for a band that can do this with some major headliners after them. Adelitas Way does it in style. Playing songs like “Invincible,” “Dirty Little Thing,” “My Derailment,” and so many more, we get a strong taste of what this band from Las Vegas has to offer. Welcome to the Twin Cities boys, you will always be welcomed here! Get ready for some more show requests here.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-9/10
Next up is a very well known favorite, Chevelle. They hit the stage harder and louder each time you see them. They rock the stage with hit favorites along with fan favorites from every album. Crowd suffers galore, the temperature heats up and so do the guys of Chevelle. The crowd interaction is astonishing and I’m able to capture it through a lens. With each song, Chevelle once again prevails as why they’re one of the best bands to see live. With strobe lights and smoky effects, they will definitely stand out in people’s memories for years to come. As always, the band performs superbly and is left with no question that they have hardcore fans here.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-9.5/10
Last but not least, Three Days Grace walks on stage. I have seen them many times and each time is better than the last. Always starting the show off with a bang, pyros set the theme for the remainder of the evening. Graving us with our favorite songs like “I Hate Everything About You,” “Home,” “Just Like You,” “Last to Know,” “Break” and several more, you’re brought back to memories throughout your life. Each note is hit with precision, each beat is felt through the bass and drums, each chorus is sung aloud by everyone in the crowd. It leads you to one conclusion; Three Days Grace is as strong as ever and will continue to get bigger. Time will tell when they are back in town, but we will be patiently waiting until then.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-9.5/10
Make sure and check out each band along with this show stopping tour!
Tour Review: Flyleaf, Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace
Every year, there are tours that people mark on their calendars months in advance. They rarely question themselves as to if they should, want or can go: they just do it. I’m always intrigued when bands start talking about tours and who they’ll possibly be on the road sharing the stage with for months at a time. Every single person has their favorite bands they’d love to see on tour together. The gossip as to who is in the final acts is always a little maddening for those of us that have waited patiently for certain bands to hit the road again. There’s not a doubt in my mind about one specific tour always being a guaranteed show stopper: Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace. This time around however, another amazing band is added to the bill: Flyleaf. Each of these bands are in their own rights beyond talented and put on a hell of a show as headliners, but add them together as a whole: you have a new meaning to a damn great night of music and entertainment.
The tour has just begun and one of the first 5 stops is in Mankato MN. It’s freezing and there are tons of people already in line scoping out the tours merchandise through the windows. It’s almost hard to tell what band is “the favorite” as the amount of people wearing every bands shirt is almost overwhelming. Everyone here is here for every single band. There’s no doubt that it’ll be a show to remember. And no one is disappointed.
On stage first is the female lead band: Flyleaf. Just releasing a new album and music video, the rave on this band is quite understandable. The crowd is immense and packed with kids from the age of 11 to adults of 50 something. Flyleaf starts off with a bang and leads us into a story of inspiration. The connection in which each band member has with the crowd leads you speechless in a way. The energy and charisma of everyone on stage, amps up the volume of the crowd a few more notches. Mixing songs off their first album Flyleaf like “I’m So Sick,” “Fully Alive,” “All Around Me” to their newest album Memento Mori’s “Again,” “Beautiful Bride,” “Arise,” “Missing” “Set Apart This Dream” and “Have We Lost” are played as well. During each song, Lacey sweeps people off their feet by surprising them with the large voice she carries within. Each song is dedicated to inspiring others to being something more for themselves but for others as well. To not be afraid of being yourself and believing in the gifts you already have. If there’s one thing to be said about Flyleaf, it’s the power of inspiration this band has. For those 30 plus minutes they’re on stage, you believe and find contentment in the world around you. With Sameer and Jared guiding with guitars, Pat creating the rhythm and James following through with drums, Lacey is left to create melodies with her dynamic voice. There isn’t a better band to start this show off right.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-9/10
Second to hit the stage is Breaking Benjamin. It’s been a little while since they’ve been on the road but releasing a new cd not too long ago makes up for the absence. Starting off the show with “So Cold” and moving into other hits like “Polyamorous,” “Sooner or Later,” “Breath” and “Diary of Jane” are played as some of the fans favorites. Introducing the newest CD Dear Agony, “I Will Not Bow,” “Dear Agony,” “Give Me a Sign” and a tribute to the soldiers “Into the Nothing” are represented proudly. An acoustic song is also thrown into the mix with Ben and Aaron playing “Dream On” by Aerosmith. The uniqueness of lead singer Benjamin Burnley’s voice is something to marvel at just listening to on a CD, but listening to him live is even better. Watching Mark engage with everyone in the crowd lets everyone feel apart of one another. Aaron’s ability to play the guitar while charming each note is something every guitarist needs to practice. Let’s not forget Chad sitting in a jaw dropping drum set, playing beats very few have talent for. The crowd involvement is something to behold with this band. Everyday problems are forgotten while these four guys play an unforgettable bill. This band is well known for it’s love of our US Soldiers and every show they’ve played, a tribute to those heroic men and woman is never forgotten. We all took a moment to remember those who have fallen but also to those who are still serving. It’s one more thing to admire about Breaking Benjamin.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-9/10
Last to hit stage is Three Days Grace. Like Flyleaf and Breaking Benjamin, Three Days Grace just dropped a new album as well. What better way for these three bands to push their new records than with a tour together? The energy of everyone in the building is astounding to behold within the first few songs. The bill consists of hits like “I Hate Everything About You,” “Animal I have Become,” “Just Like You,” “Never Too Late,” “Riot,” “Pain,” “Home” and their newest single “Break” rounds out the show. With a few extra songs in between, every single person in the crowd sings every word to each song. With a little surprise for the fans, Adam appears on a mini stage by the sound booth in the middle of the floor while Neil plays an unforgettable drum solo while the entire drum set turns in a circle. Turning back to see Barry wail some major guitar rifts, anyone with a camera is madly clicking away at the sights before them. Rounding out the rhythm is Brad on bass, head banging to each note he creates. Only when you don’t think the night could get any better, the stage is lit up with pyros and heat! The crowd goes crazy while upping their volume 5 times louder than what it already was. It’s a perfect ending to an unbelievable night of great music, talented musicians and unattainable energy.
-My rating based on voice/instruments sound, stage presence and entertainment-10/10
This tour is by far one of the best tours to see this year! Every band has it’s own individuality but as a whole, they make for an unforgettable evening as one of the best tours to ever be created. Find a city near you and get your tickets to see Flyleaf, Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace. It’s a tour to experience at least once in your lifetime and one that you’ll want to repeat every year from here on out.
To see photos from this show, go to www.stillcodaphotography.com
Make sure you check out tour dates and each band’s websites for upcoming information!
One word: complete. One feeling: inspired. One sound: genius. One notion: movement. One idea: depth. One band: RED. It only takes this one band to create something so pure and imaginable, it leaves you feeling whole. The depth, in which this band has always had, not only within themselves, their music, their fans or a combination of both, is something so genuine it leaves a lasting impression on everyone it touches. It’s a rarity to find this impression, especially in the chaos the world surrounds us with. RED creates a reprieve from that chaos. They give you a canvas and lend their colors to it. It creates a painting in which every song tells a story and every story creates the band. Their fans can’t get enough of their music and their love for this band is as bright and colorful as those paintings. RED creates a world of their own and it’s an amazing one to see.
STILLCODA: NEW TOUR, CLASS OF 2009, WITH SAVING ABEL, POP EVIL, TADDY PORTER: HOW IS IT GOING SO FAR?
ANTHONY: It’s going good so far, we’re doing what we love to do. We always have a good time so it’s going great!
STILLCODA: SO THERE’S A LITTLE BIT OF A CHANGE UP ON STAGE WITH JASEN NOT PERFORMING?
ANTHONY: Nothings happened; he just wanted to be with family so he’s at home. He’s working on his career in producing and that side of things. We’re still writing together, working on songs and all kinds of things, he just doesn’t tour with us. He’ll still be apart of the band, just not as much as he was.
STILLCODA: WHAT IS SOME ADVICE THAT YOU WOULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF 3 YEARS AGO?
ANTHONY: I didn’t realize it’d be as crazy as it is. I think we all set out with goals in mind. We hoped and prayed that the bands success would come but I think we’ve been kind of overwhelmed with the success we’ve gotten. So I think the advice would have just been to did what we did, work hard.
STILLCODA: WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT KEEP YOU GROUNDED WHILE ON TOUR? YOU GUYS ARE CONSTANTLY ON THE ROAD SO THAT BECOMES MORE OF YOUR LIFE THAN BEING HOME.
ANTHONY: Yeah, it’s just the type of people we are. There’s no one thing physically like that, it’s more of a mental for all of us. We all just know what our goals are, that’s what we set out to do, it’s something we rely on to keep us grounded.
STILLCODA: SPEAKING OF KEEPING YOU GROUNDED, THE BAND HAS SOME EXTREMELY DEVOTED FANS, WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THEY’VE DONE FOR YOU?
ANTHONY: Fans have done, you name it. They bring us food, invite us over to their houses, those people are on the list of “not crazy” (BOTH LAUGH). We’ll go over to their place and have a BBQ. After shows, we’ll go hang out with them, basically go do whatever. Go see some cool spots of the town that we’re in that night. Luckily, our fans have a way of making us feel at home when we’re not at home. In every city, there’s a least one person we know that usually comes to every show. It brings a familiar face to us that we always remember.
STILLCODA: NOW ON THIS TOUR, YOU GUYS HAVE BEEN OFFERING AN ACOUSTIC SET TO FANS WHO PURCHASE A PACKAGE, HOW HAS THAT BEEN GOING FOR YOU?
ANTHONY: It’s really cool, it’s something we asked our management about doing because it gives us a chance to connect with fans, get a little more intimate with fans because the live set up isn’t as easy to do something like that. We usually go to the merch table and meet everyone but to be able to play an actual acoustic song. It’s just another way to show them how we want to give back and kind of how we live for 20-30 minutes of their night. Show them what we’re all about, a little bit of a closer look at the music. It’s what we’re excited about.
STILLCODA: WITH DOING THE ACOUSTIC SET AND THE LIVE SET, HOW DO YOU DETERMINE WHAT SONGS YOU’LL BE PLAYING EVERY NIGHT?
ANTHONY: It’s based off of the flow of the show and how it will be vocally for us. It can be straining on Michael and Randy singing, so it’s like which songs flow best, which songs are harder to sing, etc. So we just set the songs up that work best but we also want to put on the best live show we possibly can; that are energetic and that people can really get into. It’s just a whole flow thing really and become an experience for everyone watching. If there’s break ups in there or if there’s something’s in there that don’t seem to mesh well, you’re not doing your job.
STILLCODA: OUT OF ALL THE LIVE PERFORMANCES I’VE SEEN, YOU ARE HANDS DOWN ONE OF THE BEST LIVE. EVERYTHING FLOWS JUST AS IT NEEDS TO AND THE ENERGY THAT YOU BRING MAKES THE FANS SPEECHLESS.
ANTHONY: Thank you! It’s definitely something that we strive for.
STILLCODA: WHILE THE BAND IS ON THE ROAD, YOU GUYS ARE CONSTANTLY DOING VIDEO UPDATES, BLOGS, TWITTER, ETC. WHAT IS SOMETHING FUNNY THAT HAS HAPPENED ON THIS TOUR?
ANTOHNY: Oh man…the first night of the tour, there was basically what seemed like a hurricane in Corpus Christi. There was about 10 inches of running water everywhere. The bus felt like it was drowning in a lake. We got on stage and 2 songs into set, the entire town of Corpus Christi lost power. So that was it for us, we performed in the rain. They had what’s called a “brown out,” so we kind of finished those 2 songs and got off stage. So the first night of the tour was quite interesting (BOTH LAUGH).
STILLCODA: I’M SURE IT WAS! MY FIRST THOUGHT WOULD HAVE BEEN, “ARE WE GOING TO GET ELECTROCUTED?”
ANTHONY: (LAUGHS). Yea it was raining when we went on stage. It was a covered, outdoor stage so when the electricity went out, we were like “What in the world!”
STILLCODA: SPEAKING OF REACTIONS, THE BAND HAS HAD THEIR SECOND ALBUM “INNOCENCE AND INSTINCT” OUT SINCE FEBRUARY. DO YOU GUYS NOTICE IF FANS PERFER THAT ALBUM OVER “END OF SILENCE”?
ANTHONY: We’re seeing both sides of that of which record they like. I think the first people like and relate more to your first project. If they like your first project and it becomes a success, then people will say “Ah! Do you remember “End of Silence,” do you remember that record?...” It’s our newest project so I don’t think we’re going to stray away from either record. We feel like we’ve gotten to where we want to be. People are excited about the songs, the record is going great. But there’s just something magical for people about that first record. The first record is what drew them to us. So when people are introduced to us through “Innocence and Instinct,” then they find the first record, it’s that “ahh” all over again. They have infinity with that record.
STILLCODA: WHEN YOU ARE PERFORMING LIVE, WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU FEED OFF OF WHILE WATCHING THE CROWD?
ANTHONY: Yeah, we feed off the crowd, the energy is something that we as a band and the people who came to see us share together. If you show up and the crowd’s really boring then you want to know that they’re into the music as much as you are. That’s a major part of it. Our music is so extreme as far as it getting really heavy and aggressive to the opposite. It’s kind of like a roller coaster in a way. From start to finish, we try to put on a really flowing type of show. There are so many people out there watching us, that’s a broad range of people so we try to give them everything we can.
STILLCODA: TO GET READY TO PERFORM WITH SUCH ENERGY, WHAT DO YOU GUYS DO BEFORE A SHOW?
ANTHONY: We listen to music, something heavy like Sevendust or Slipknot, something that gets us going. It’s that heavy, aggressive sound that gets you pumped up. It’s like something that you’d listen to while you’re at the gym, that sort of thing. Us guys are into that sort of thing (BOTH LAUGH).
STILLCODA: YOUR MUSIC INSPIRES SO MANY PEOPLE AND IT BECOMES A BIG PART OF THEM. HAVE YOU SEEN FANS WITH TATTOOS AND SUCH THAT THEY’VE GOTTEN IN HONOR OF THAT?
ANTHONY: We have! There’s a guy that has the entire front cover of “End of Silence” tatted on his leg. A friend of ours has: her Twitter page is Evil Angel, which is a Breaking Benjamin song (BOTH LAUGH); on the back of her neck one of our old merch designs of a skull with wings and the logo tatted there. It’s cool because I designed the logo for the band, we all take a lot of pride in that because it’s our brand. The word means so much more to us that just the brand. The word RED and what it embodies for us is and that logo is synonymous to us. So it’s cool to see people branding it on them.
STILLCODA: BOTH YOU AND YOUR BROTHER RANDY HAVE SOME INTERESTING TATTOOS THAT GO WITH THE BRANDING THAT YOU WERE TALKING ABOUT AND HOW IT MEANS MORE TO YOU THAN JUST THE WORD.
ANTHONY: Yeah, my right arm is covered with images from “The Book of Revelations” from the Bible; it’s about the Armageddon and the end of the world. I’ve always been so fascinated by that book in the Bible, it being about the end of days and survival. It’s that constant conversation in the world about the end of days. It’s just so interesting to me and if you read through that book, it’s a very graphic detailed dream sequence of events. It goes through what this man sees and what he goes through that’s tattooed on my arm
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STILLCODA: RANDY HAS “REDEMPTION” AND “INSPIRED” WRITTEN ON BOTH OF HIS FOREARMS WITH THE WORD “RED” IN THE COLOR RED.
ANTHONY: Yeah, that was actually my idea (BOTH LAUGH). I told Randy about that and he said “That’s pretty cool.” So he went and got that. Both embody what the band is about and how we feel about being as inspirational as we can.
STILLCODA: EVERYTHING FROM THE LOGO, THE NAME, THE MERCH, THE MUSIC, THE SHOW, THE BAND, EVERYTHING IS TIED SO WELL TOGETHER; IT’S ASTOUNDING HOW TIGHT EVERYTHING IS. THAT PROCESS OF GETTING TO THAT POINT: WAS IT SOMETHING THAT THE BAND INITIALLY THOUGHT OF OR DID EVERYTHING JUST COME TOGETHER ON THE WAY?
ANTHONY: I don’t know, it’s a great question. I think with us being on the road and touring, has made us a great performing band. I don’t think anyone can just step on stage and be amazing. I still think there’s an x-factor there, there’s just something that some bands have that other bands don’t. Or that some performers have that others don’t. It’s something that divides a band from another one so to speak. We’ve paid so much attention to our live show to how we pull off the whole spectrum of what RED is. It’s more of a lifestyle for us, you know what I mean? We’re kind of living our lives out on stage in front of 1000’s of people. It’s what we want people to see and for you to say or state that the way you did, I feel like we’re accomplishing that. That’s what most important to us.
STILLCODA: EVERY SINGLE TIME I’VE SEEN YOU, THE SHOW STILL BLOWS ME AWAY. EVERYTHING IS AT IT SHOULD BE. TO LOOK AT HOW THE BAND RUNS AND HOW YOU ACCOMPLISH EVERYTHNG, IS EXACTLY HOW THINGS SHOULD BE DONE. EVERYTHING FLOWS TOGETHER SMOOTHLY, THE LIVE SHOW LEAVES YOU SPEECHLESS AND THE BAND BEING HUMBLE ABOUT EVERYTHING MAKES YOU ONE OF THOSE BANDS THAT STANDS OUT.
ANTHONY: That makes me feel awesome to hear you say something like that! We basically play everyday of the week. Sometimes we step off stage, we feel like “we didn’t have a good show tonight.” But we go to the merch table after and someone will just be freaking out! Crying or something like that and saying “That’s the most amazing show I’ve ever seen!” Our reactions are “Like, what? Ahhh…” (BOTH LAUGH). It’s hard to take compliments sometimes because we are such perfectionists on what we do and we’re so passionate about every single facet. So is something happens, we feel like that flow is broken and it feels like we had a bad night. We’ll get frustrated sometimes because we feel like our fans deserve more than that. Having that attitude going into a show, no matter how big the venue is, every single show is an opportunity to hold onto our music.
STILLCODA: AND THAT’S WHY THE BAND HAS SUCH DEVOTED FANS. YOU AND JASEN ARE KNOWN FOR ‘TWIRLING AND SPINNING THE GUITAR’ AROUND WHILE PLAYING. HOW DO YOU DO IT AND MAKING IT LOOK EFFORTLESS? (BOTH LAUGH)
ANTHONY: I think it’s just something that becomes effortless after lots of practice (BOTH LAUGH). When you feel something, you get into it and that’s just something I do when I’m into the music. It started way back in the day where guitarists would throw the guitar front to back or back to front. The twirling just came along with it I think (laughs).
STILLCODA: HAVE YOU EVER HIT ANYONE ON STAGE?
ANTHONY: Oh yeah. I put Michael in the hospital once. I swung the guitar around and it landed on top of his head. He had to have 7 staples put in his head. Actually a few nights ago, one of the first nights on the tour, my strap broke when I did it. The guitar went flying across the stage and it snapped in half. Luckily, when I do tricks like that, I always have a back up. My guitar tech was right there and handed me my other guitar.
STILLCODA: WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU WANT TO SAY TO THE FANS THAT YOU HAVEN’T BEEN ABLE TO?
ANTHONY: If I could say something to the fans, I think it’d be to give us a chance. We ride a very thin line as a band because we’re from a Christian record label; a lot of places consider us a Christian band/act. Those lines are so polarized now, there’s just no real way of defining our music as Christian or not. Because it gets a Christian “label,” people are either automatically turned off or on by it. They might think we have an agenda or that we have a message we want to jamb down their throat that “label.” And it’s not like that for us. We’re just music makers, all we care about is relating to people and showing people that regardless of what our Faith is, we’re just like everybody else. Music is an amazing platform because not only can we get into their heads with just a great song, the seed is planted. They can go exploring and dissecting music on their own and reading biographies and really understanding what and who the band is. I think if people took a closer look, they’d realize that there’s more to us than our Faith. There’s more to the band that we’re trying to accomplish. Once they hear that we’re a Christian band, they feel like they can’t listen to us or can’t come talk to us at the merch table cause they have a beer in their hands. We’re just here to be, really. We have our beliefs and our belief system but at the end of the day, we like to write great songs, put on a great show and have a good time.
STILLCODA: IT SHOULD BE ABOUT THE MUSIC BEING MADE, THE SHOW THAT YOU PUT ON, HOW YOU TREAT OTHERS AND NOT BASED ON PERSONAL BELIEFS. AS LONG AS YOU’RE DONG WHAT YOU LOVE, THAT’S WHAT IT SHOULD BE ABOUT. MUSIC IS ITS OWN ENTITY, TAKE IT FOR WHAT IT IS AND GO ON.
ANTHONY: Exactly! There’s such a stigmata about those sorts of things that people forget what to live for in a way. Music is a way for people to define themselves but it doesn’t need to be about the religious or political points of views other may have. We’re not writing a book so to speak, we’re not trying to turn people off from us. We’re here to create great music. We just want to know that it’s what you make of it. We’re human beings, not soap box type of guys you know? (BOTH LAUGH).
STILLCODA: THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS COMING UP FOR RED IN THE NEXT YEAR. WHAT CAN WE EXPECT OR GET EXCITED ABOUT FROM THE BAND?
ANTHONY: There are a couple of fun things actually. Being a music maker, you’re rewarded in that community for being able to do that. Jasen and I are the primary writers of RED and we’ve been known for being great writers, performers or whatever. We’d love to get back to the Grammy’s this year. We’ve already been nominated for a Grammy award and should find out in the next month if we’ve been nominated again. So that’d be kind of cool to experience again. Next year we’ve got some really cool touring possibilities coming up that we’re really excited about. In January, we’ve got a headlining tour that we’ll be doing. We’re supposed to be going out really shortly with Breaking Benjamin and Flyleaf, which will be an amazing tour. Three Days Grace has asked us to go out again, so we’re looking forward to that tour as well. It’s going to be a big year for us next year. We’re also looking to release “Ordinary World” to the top 40 radio. If that does well, we’ll get to do some late night shows and such. So fun little goals, that aren’t meant to be made into anything more than what they are, but things we’re excited about experiencing. We’d wish that on anybody so we’re thankful we’ve been able to experience what we have so far.
STILLCODA: AT THE END OF THE DAY, WHAT THOUGHT GOES THROUGH YOUR MIND? SOMETHING THAT YOU’D TELL THE YOUNGER GENERATION IF THEY WANT TO TAKE THE PATH RED HAS.
ANTHONY: At the end of the day, we’re just thankful that we get to do what we love. It’s not a job to us; it’s our way of living. That’s what’s awesome to us. If you’re in this business to be famous and make money, you’re in it for the wrong reasons. It’s a lot more work than any of us expected, from marketing to everything. It’s a lot of hard work but it’s worth it to us. We go on stage and try to be as humble as we can and really be apart of the music and fans. We’ve been really fortunate enough to have done and accomplished the things we have and not a lot of bands get to do that. So we’re really thankful and humbled by our experiences. It could all be gone tomorrow, but we keep that reality in mind.
STILLCODA: WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHAT COMES OF THE FUTURE FOR THIS BAND. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR TAKING THE TIME TODAY TO SPEAK WITH ME AND WE’LL SEE YOU ON THE ROAD SOON!
ANTHONY: Thank you for talking with me! We really appreciate people like you and we can’t wait to see everyone out on the road!
