(Photos and Review courtesy of Rich Moreland/SCE)
The first show I’ve had the opportunity to bring my camera out for in almost 5 months was a complete and total RAGER!
3 bands that I was only familiar-ish with, meant a lot to digest as it was my first time seeing any of these bands live. I missed the opener, Lilith Czar, but arrived in time for Ice Nine Kills.
I’m still reeling from the performance I witnessed. Fantastic theatrics, an absolutely punishing sound, and some really catchy subject matter and choruses. INK heavily focuses on horror movie and serial killer story retellings, from JAWS, to IT, to Pet Cemetery, Michael Myers, Freddy Krueger, and Jason Voorhees… plus so many more.
Lead singer Spencer Charnas went from donning a suit, to a butcher’s apron while wielding cleaver, a scientist coat, and at one point even dressing as Pennywise the Clown. Through the show he was all over the stage, pumping up the crowd, and masterfully delivering his vocal lines in all sorts of different registers ranging from manic highs to crushing, guttural lows. Truth be told, I haven’t stopped listening to these guys since, and I strongly recommend if you have a chance – GO SEE THEM!
Highlights – “Welcome To Horrorwood“, “Stabbing in the Dark“, “Take Your Pick“, “Funeral Derangements”
Up next were the Black Veil Brides – photographers were not allowed pit access for this band, so all shots are from the crowd. Drums overpowered the vocals (and everything else) and was a tough set to enjoy for me personally. The crowd seemed to love them though! Plenty of smiling faces were seen screaming along to the lyrics, jumping around, and having a great time.
Highlights – “In The End“, “Scarlett Cross“, “The Legacy”
The evening’s festivities were capped off by metalcore giants Motionless In White – Who delivered a blazing set to a rabid audience who ate up every last note they delivered.
At one point singer Chris Motionless stopped the show to help a fan in distress, scolding the security crew for not keeping a proper eye out. He brought down a bottle of water, then offered the fan to come enjoy the rest of the show from the stage, which the fan happily accepted. It’s good to see bands looking out for their fans.
Highlights – “Thoughts and Prayers“, “Cyberhex“, “Eternally Yours”
