Ben Folds
Robins Theatre, Warren OH
Opener: Lindsey Kraft
4/13/25
By Robert McCune
In a century-old theatre, under a cathedral dome, Ben Folds held church, his altar a black 1935 Steinway & Sons Model B Grand Piano and his choir roughly 700 strong.
Those fortunate enough to be welcomed into “the fold” on this leg of the “Ben Folds & A Piano” tour know that a night with Folds is never simply a concert—it’s an experience. In this acoustically regal space, the man wielding the piano keys spun stories, shared personal truths, and brought his audience to places as emotional as they were uplifting.
While Folds’ early breakout hit, the achingly poignant “Brick,” didn’t make an appearance, the absence was hardly felt among the evening’s rich lineup of deeply personal ballads and vibrant anthems. Through songs like “Still Fighting It” and “Gracie,” Folds laid bare his role as father, friend, and artist, channeling his widely ranging vocality into storytelling that felt utterly relatable.
Opening the show, Lindsey Kraft—accomplished actor and singer-songwriter—brought her theatrical chops to a deeply personal set of songs written for her stage musical-in-progress, Love Me. Kraft’s acting roots were evident in her poignant performances, weaving drama and vulnerability effortlessly into her music. Tracks like the gut-wrenching “Sam I Am” explored her early realization that her father, Sam, was an addict—a confessional rendered in nursery-rhyme-like intimacy. Folds himself made a brief off-stage cameo, providing tender reassurance with the line, “You already are,” proving that even beyond music, he’s a collaborator in the truest sense.
Later, as Folds commandeered the evening’s momentum, the piano seemed ablaze under his touch. More than an instrument, it became a full orchestra under his skillful hands, with kicks to the stage and rhythmic audience claps augmenting the soundscape. Fans were transformed into a veritable choir as they harmonized with Folds during tracks like “You Don’t Know Me” and delivered stunning solo vocals for “The Luckiest”—a moment that deserved candlelight for its sheer beauty.
Folds showcased why he’s earned the title “The Great Collaborator,” having worked with a diverse range of partners, from William Shatner to symphony orchestras. His unique ability to unite his audience as active participants in the music created a collective euphoria that transcended the boundaries of performer and spectator.
Songwriting remains Folds’ superpower, his lyrics often balancing humor and heartache, artfully telling stories that resonate on multiple levels. From the encore-requested “One Down” to the allegorical “Fragile,” inspired by a bizarre burglary incident, each piece reminded listeners of why Folds’ music feels timeless—simultaneously rooted in personal experiences and universally relatable.
As the night wound down, the Robins Theatre itself became a character in this narrative—a beautifully restored jewel, revived from decades of neglect to provide a setting as majestic as the performance it hosted. And for the audience, each interaction and shared moment underscored the communal magic of live music.
With his sly humor, effortless charisma, and unparalleled musicality, Ben Folds remains the perfect shepherd for an evening like this. Walking away without a concert tee but full of unforgettable memories, I couldn’t help but feel I’d been part of something extraordinary. “I am … I am … I am … the luckiest.”
Robert McCune is a full-time journalist, part-time photojournalist and aspiring rock journalist and podcaster. Follow his journey on Instagram at every_thing_after_photo
]]>Judah & The Lion: Roaring Triumph in the Lion’s Den
Judah & The Lion
4/6/25
House of Blues, Cleveland
Opener: Ethan Regan
by Robert McCune
I never gave much thought to what it would mean to be in a lion’s den. The biblical story of Daniel never resonated with me, nor did I ever consider the coziness implied by the word “den” juxtaposed with the fierce majesty of lions. But as I stood amidst the “pride” of Judah & The Lion fans at Cleveland’s House of Blues on a Sunday night, the phrase took on new meaning. This wasn’t a den to cower in fear but one to revel in—a sanctuary of sound and community where danger was traded for exhilarating energy and heartfelt storytelling.
Judah & The Lion, the genre-blurring Nashville band, brought their infectious folk-hop fusion to an adoring audience that felt more like family than fans. Opening with a bang, frontman Judah Akers and Brian Macdonald broke convention by performing in the crowd itself—an electric stampede through a sea of hands, cheers, and unity. This unorthodox start embodied what Judah & The Lion is all about: breaking barriers, both figurative and literal, to create music that connects deeply.
The setlist was a sonic safari, leaping from the raw emotion of tracks like “As the Crow Flies,” inspired by personal loss, to the anthemic sing-alongs of “Suit and Jacket” and “Take It All Back 2.0.” But Judah & The Lion isn’t just a band you sing along to; they’re a band that insists you become part of the show. Whether you were shouting along to the crowd-rehearsed “Maybe the Best” or witnessing Judah Akers literally gift a fan the shirt off his back during the encore, it was clear: this band doesn’t perform at its fans—it performs with them.
Adding to the evening’s magic was opener Ethan Regan, who, with his folk-rock twang and masterful banjoist Samantha McKaige, set the tone for what would be a transcendental night. Regan’s sound was reminiscent of Noah Kahan, giving the audience a delightful taste of what lies ahead for the promising musician.
This wasn’t just a concert—it was a communal experience, blending high-energy stadium-worthy moments with intimate, prayer-circle-like reflections. Akers’ poignant storytelling, paired with the band’s unique genre-spanning sound, proved Judah & The Lion’s mastery of making music that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Judah & The Lion’s live performance doesn’t just showcase their talent—it magnifies it in a way recordings can’t. If you’ve only heard them on Spotify or the radio, you’ve yet to truly hear them. Their energy, passion, and connection with fans are impossible to replicate outside the live setting, making every concert a must-see event.
As the Lion left the stage with wisdom to carry into everyday life—eat more chocolate, be kind to others, and listen to more Judah & The Lion—you couldn’t help but feel a part of something larger. This wasn’t just a show—it was a roaring celebration of what it means to feel alive.
Setlist
Spirit
Heartbreak Syndrome
Quarter-Life Crisis
Anger
Floating in the Night
scream!
Over My Head
Rich Kids
Suit and Jacket
Is What it Is
My Own Worst Enemy(Lit cover)
Snap Yo Fingers(Lil Jon cover)
As the Crow Flies
Only Want the Best
Revival
Long Dark Night
Alright (frick it!)
Going to Mars / Help Me To Feel Again(Snippets)
Take It All Back
Encore:
Maybe the Best Is Now
Maybe the Best Is Now (Played a second time to record)
sportz
Robert McCune is a full-time journalist, part-time photojournalist and aspiring rock journalist and podcaster. Follow his journey on Instagram at every_thing_after_photo
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]]>By: Jenafur Schlangen
Chicago, Illinois
March 30, 2025
Man, what a night! Stereophonics rolled into Chicago on March 30th, and absolutely owned The Vic Theatre. If you’ve ever seen them live, you know they don’t mess around, just pure, no-nonsense rock ‘n’ roll, and on that night, it was no different.
From the moment they kicked off with “C’est La Vie,” the energy in the room was palpable. Kelly Jones’ voice? It is still as raw and soulful as ever. Honestly, the guy could sing the phone book, and I’d still get chills. The setlist was a dream mix, consisting of “Just Looking,” “Have a Nice Day,” “Maybe Tomorrow,” all the classics, plus a few newer tracks that fit right in, like “Hanging On” (which, by the way, sounds even better live).
One of the best moments was a stripped-down version of “Traffic.” You could hear a pin drop, except for the entire crowd softly singing along. It was one of those rare, magical live music moments where you just stop and soak it all in.
And then, of course, “Dakota” closed out the night, and The Vic absolutely lost it. People were still shouting the chorus as we spilled out onto the street. That’s the power of a band like Stereophonics…they have decades in the game, and they still know exactly how to hit you right in the feels.
Long story short: If you ever get the chance to see these guys in a smaller venue like this, do it.
Rating: 10/10, would yell “You make me feel like the one!” in a crowd again…and again.
Stereophonics – OFFICIAL WEBSITE
The Vic Theatre – OFFICIAL WEBSITE
By: Jenafur Schlangen
March 9, 2025
Chicago, Illinois
If you walked into the House of Blues Chicago on March 9th, you probably left with a little extra swagger in your step, because George Thorogood & The Destroyers delivered a 100% Grade-A, blues-rock throwdown that reminded everyone why they’ve been doing this for 50 years.
From the second George strutted onto the stage with his signature black shades and bad-to-the-bone attitude, you could feel the energy in the room shift. It wasn’t just a concert…it was a celebration of rock ‘n’ roll grit, fueled by snarling guitar riffs, wailing sax solos, and Thorogood’s unmistakable growl.
At 74 years old, he still commands the stage (impressively) with unapologetic swagger. He’s not just playing songs, he’s owning them, chewing up every lyric and spitting it back with that signature growl. And the Destroyers? Tighter than ever. Jeff Simon (drums) and Billy Blough (bass) have been with him since the early days, and their chemistry is rock-solid. The addition of Jim Suhler on guitar and Buddy Leach on sax just adds even more firepower.
The House of Blues was the perfect venue, small enough to feel intimate but big enough for Thorogood’s larger-than-life presence to take over. The crowd was locked in from the first note, and George made sure no one left without feeling like they were part of something special. If you’ve ever wondered whether Thorogood still brings it live, let me save you the trouble…hell yes, he does. This wasn’t just a nostalgia trip; it was a full-throttle blues-rock barnburner that proved he’s still as bad to the bone as ever.
George Thorogood – OFFICIAL SITE
House of Blues (Chicago) – OFFICIAL SITE
By: Jenafur Schlangen
Chicago, Illinois
March 8, 2025
Chicago was the place to be on March 8th as Disturbed, Three Days Grace, and Sevendust took over the United Center for a night of pure, adrenaline-fueled rock. This wasn’t just any show—Disturbed was celebrating 25 years of their album, The Sickness, and they made sure the hometown crowd got an unforgettable performance. Also affected were all six Chicago Bulls’ championship banners that hung proudly from the United Center’s rafters due to the heat from the band’s performance which included a vast amount of pyrotechnics. It has been reported that the damage is minor and United Center officials are currently working on repairing the banner fabric. In that, the banners have been removed for the rest of this season but they do anticipate their return for next season.
Aside from the fiery snafu mentioned above, the concert itself was definitely an evening to remember. Atlanta band, Sevendust opened up the night with their signature blend of heavy riffs and raw emotion and did not come to play. After all these years, Lajon Witherspoon’s vocals are just as powerful, and the band brought insane energy to their set. They played classics like Black and Denial while throwing in some newer tracks that proved they still have plenty of fire left. It was the perfect way to get the crowd warmed up.
Next up was the wildly popular and Canadian powerhouse, known as Three Days Grace, and as soon as they kicked into Animal I Have Become, the crowd lost it. Frontman Matt Walst delivered a rock-solid performance but it was the return of Adam Gontier that caused everyone to jump-up and pay attention. I’m not sure how many times I heard in the hallways, “I wondered how they were going to pull that off.” And, pull it off they most definitely did. Their setlist was packed with hits like Pain, Never Too Late, and I Hate Everything About You. They even threw in So Called Life from their more recent album, which got a great response. The mix of old and new kept the energy high, and by the end of their set, the crowd was primed and ready for Disturbed.
Then came the moment everyone was waiting for—Disturbed. From the moment David Draiman was wheeled out onto the stage, on a wooden dolly, similar to that of Hannibal Lecter (face mask and all), you could feel how special this show was going to be and how crazy it was going to get. This was their hometown crowd, and they definitely went all out.
To celebrate The Sickness turning 25, they played a stacked setlist, featuring the entire album, including Voices, Stupify, and Down With the Sickness (which had the whole arena screaming along). They balanced the old-school classics with some of their later hits like Inside the Fire, The Vengeful One, and of course, their emotional cover of The Sound of Silence.
One of the coolest moments of the night was Draiman taking a second to reflect on how far the band has come since The Sickness first dropped in 2000. You could tell he was genuinely moved, and the crowd responded with a deafening roar.
The production was top-notch…tons of pyro (as mentioned above), insane lighting, and level of loud that was greatly appreciated and added a whole new level to the experience. It felt like a true celebration of Disturbed’s legacy, and they made sure every fan left the arena knowing they had witnessed something special.
If you get the chance to catch this tour, DO IT. Sevendust set the tone, Three Days Grace brought the nostalgia, and Disturbed absolutely destroyed in the best way possible. The energy, the setlists, and the sheer power of their performances made this a night to remember, especially for those who have been rocking with The Sickness since day one.
As far as the Bulls’ banner damage, we shall see how that plays out so, check back for updates!
Disturbed – OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Three Days Grace – OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Sevendust – OFFICIAL WEBSITE
]]>Dear rouge
Midway Music Hall
Edmonton, Canada
By Megan Veldhuis
Royal Foundry, an alternative-pop band from Edmonton, kicked off the show for them on Saturday night. With Bethany away, it was Jared Salte and Robbie Szabo who took to the stage, and they delivered an electrifying start to the night. They truly brought the energy to Midway and the crowd loved it!
After sharing an emotional story of Bethany and Jared having to evacuate their home due to a fire last year, the duo played their new song “I Give Up”, which was released two weeks ago. When releasing the song, they posted “It’s not a song about quitting. It’s about surrendering to the moment, letting go of what you can’t control, and focusing on what you can—your mind, your resilience, your next step forward.” That really resonated with me. At the end of their set, Robbie surprised everyone by pulling out a cello and playing it for the last couple of songs.
I’ve heard there’s a competition between Edmonton and Calgary to see which city can cheer and sing the loudest at concerts. Well, I may be biased, but I think Edmonton won this competition on Saturday. The moment Dear Rouge stepped on stage; the crowd was cheering. The band played all the fan favorites; “Fake Fame”, “Live Through the Night”, “I Heard I Had”, “Not Afraid to Dance”, and many more. Dear Rouge was extremely interactive with the crowd, which the crowd just ate up. During “Not Afraid to Dance”, lead singer Danielle McTaggart brought up four volunteers and danced on stage with them. She even jumped into the pit to dance near the end of the night! The special acoustic rendition of “Live Through the Night” was captivating and emotional. Danielle McTaggart had SO much energy all night, with engaging costumes, dance moves, and dynamic control over her voice. Dear Rouge put on a captivating and effervescent show, and I can’t wait until the next one!
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]]>By: Jenafur Schlangen
February 12, 2025
Chicago, Illinois
Walking into Thalia Hall during the largest snowfall event in Chicago so far, I had no idea what to expect from Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats. The name itself gave me a sense of mystery and intrigue. And, as soon as the band hit the stage, I knew this was going to be something unique. The stage setup was minimalist. There were barely any lights, just a haze of smoke filling the air, and the stage was dark…with the exception of one lone candle, sitting atop of a small, wooden table, placed just in front of the mic stand. It was clear this was part of Uncle Acid’s signature style, known for wanting very little light. The stage was drenched in darkness, with the occasional flicker of neon colors that matched the haunting, hypnotic atmosphere they were creating…as well as that lone candle mentioned before.
The music hit hard from the get-go. It was a mesmerizing blend of fuzzy, sludgy riffs with a distinctly retro feel, like something straight out of the ’60s or ’70s, but with a modern edge. The sound was heavy and immersive, building an almost trance-like experience. Uncle Acid’s voice was hauntingly smooth, the kind of tone that wraps around you in a way that makes you feel both unsettled and drawn in at the same time. The guitar work was sharp and relentless, while the rhythm section locked into a groove that felt like it could go on forever.
Not to beat a dead horse, but the lack of bright lights or flashy visuals forced the focus entirely on the music, and it felt like a kind of ritualistic performance. It was not your usual rock-star spectacle but instead, a performance is about connecting with the audience through sound and mood. Speaking of mood, the crowd was just as absorbed as I was, swaying with the rhythm and losing themselves in the music. There was a hypnotic quality to the show, like you could easily forget time and place. Each song seemed to flow seamlessly into the next, building an emotional intensity that didn’t let up for the duration of the set.
What I appreciated most was how understated the whole thing was. Uncle Acid wasn’t here to be flashy or a showman. His performance was humble but captivating. The stripped-back visuals, the sparse lighting, and the slow-burn intensity of the music combined into something that felt more like an experience than just a concert. And, as the final notes rang out, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. The show wasn’t about spectacle or ego, it was about raw, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll in its purest form. Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats have created something entirely their own, and as someone who had never seen them before, I walked away feeling like I had witnessed something truly special.
]]>REO Speedwagon
September 29, 2023
The Nugget
By Ella Joyce
The Styx concert at the Nugget Event Center in Sparks, Nevada, on September 29, 2023, was a night to remember. The iconic rock band, known for their powerful performances and timeless hits, delivered an electrifying show that left the audience in awe.
The concert kicked off with “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights),” a classic that set the tone for the evening. The energy in the venue was palpable as the band transitioned into “The Grand Illusion,” showcasing their signature blend of progressive rock and hard rock. The crowd, a mix of long-time fans and new listeners, was immediately drawn into the band’s dynamic performance.
One of the highlights of the night was the performance of “Lady,” a song that has been a staple in Styx’s repertoire for decades. The band’s harmonies were flawless, and the audience sang along, creating a sense of unity and nostalgia. “Miss America” and “Lorelei” followed, each song met with enthusiastic applause and cheers.
As the night progressed, Styx continued to deliver hit after hit. “Rockin’ the Paradise” and “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)” were particularly well-received, with the crowd dancing and singing along. The band’s energy was infectious, and it was clear that they were enjoying every moment on stage.
“Too Much Time on My Hands” was another standout performance. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics resonated with the audience, many of whom could be seen nodding their heads and tapping their feet. The band then slowed things down with “Khedive,” a more introspective track that showcased their versatility and depth.
The concert reached its peak with “Come Sail Away,” a song that has become synonymous with Styx. The band’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, with powerful vocals and intricate instrumentals that captivated the audience. The song’s crescendo was met with a standing ovation, a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and talent.
For the encore, Styx treated the audience to “Mr. Roboto” and “Renegade,” two of their most popular songs. The crowd erupted in cheers as the band returned to the stage, and the energy in the venue was electric. “Mr. Roboto” was a fun and theatrical performance, while “Renegade” brought the night to a thrilling close with its powerful lyrics and driving rhythm.
Throughout the concert, the band’s chemistry was evident. Each member brought their unique talents to the stage, creating a cohesive and dynamic performance. The lead vocals were strong and emotive, the guitar solos were electrifying, and the rhythm section provided a solid foundation for the band’s sound.
The Nugget Event Center, with its excellent acoustics and intimate setting, was the perfect venue for the concert. The sound quality was superb, allowing the audience to fully appreciate the nuances of the band’s performance. The lighting and stage design added to the overall experience, creating a visually stunning backdrop for the music.
In addition to the music, the concert was a celebration of Styx’s legacy. The band took time between songs to interact with the audience, sharing stories and expressing their gratitude for the fans’ support over the years. These moments added a personal touch to the concert, making it feel like a shared experience between the band and the audience.
The Styx concert at the Nugget Event Center was more than just a performance; it was a journey through the band’s illustrious career. From their early hits to their more recent work, Styx demonstrated why they have remained a beloved and influential band for so many years. The concert was a testament to their talent, passion, and dedication to their craft.
For those in attendance, the concert was a night of unforgettable music and memories. It was a reminder of the power of live music to bring people together and create lasting connections. As the final notes of “Renegade” echoed through the venue, it was clear that Styx had once again delivered a performance that would be remembered for years to come.
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]]>REO Speedwagon
September 29, 2023
The Nugget
By Elizabeth Locke
On a balmy evening in Reno, Nevada, the legendary rock band REO Speedwagon took the stage at the Reno Events Center, delivering a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. The band, known for hits like “Keep on Loving You” and “Roll with the Changes,” brought their A-game, captivating the audience with their timeless classics and energetic stage presence.
The night kicked off with the iconic “Don’t Let Him Go,” setting the tone for an evening filled with nostalgia and rock ‘n’ roll magic. Lead singer Kevin Cronin, with his signature denim jacket and sky blue sunglasses, led the band through a setlist that spanned their impressive career. The crowd was treated to a mix of old favorites and lesser-known gems, each song performed with the same passion and intensity as if it were their first time on stage.
One of the highlights of the night was the performance of “Keep on Loving You.” The crowd sang along in unison, creating an electric atmosphere that could be felt throughout the venue. The band’s chemistry was palpable, with each member feeding off the energy of the audience and each other. The harmonies were tight, and the solos were flawless, showcasing the band’s musical prowess.
Another standout moment was their rendition of “Roll with the Changes.” The song, which has become somewhat of an anthem for resilience and adaptability, resonated deeply with the audience. The band’s ability to connect with the crowd on an emotional level was evident, as fans swayed and sang along, lost in the music.
The band also took time to acknowledge their long-time fans, sharing stories and memories from their early days. This personal touch added an extra layer of intimacy to the performance, making the audience feel like they were part of the band’s journey.
As the night drew to a close, REO Speedwagon left the stage with a promise to return, leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement and gratitude. The encore, featuring “Time for Me to Fly,” was the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable night.
In summary, REO Speedwagon’s live performance in Reno 2023 was a testament to their enduring legacy and unwavering dedication to their craft. The band’s ability to deliver a high-energy, heartfelt performance after all these years is a testament to their talent and passion. For fans old and new, it was a night to remember, filled with great music, great memories, and a reminder of why REO Speedwagon has remained a beloved name in rock music for decades.
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]]>The HU
House of Blues
Cleveland, OH
October25, 2024
By Drew Latshaw
The Funeral Portrait formed in Atlanta, Georgia in 2014. Their music blends emotional hardcore, punk rock, and musical theater, and their lyrics cover topics like mental health, depression, love, and anger. The band’s goal is to represent outcasts and offer a safe and accepting community.
The Funeral Portrait has toured with acts like Shinedown, Underoath, Skillet, From Ashes To New, Starset, and Pvris. They’ve also been featured on the main stage at INKcarceration Festival, and currently they are touring with the Mongolian Metal band The HU and I was able to catch up with them at the House of Blues in Cleveland, Ohio.
It was wonderful to see the line outside of the House of Blues for this show. I can usually get into the lobby to get my credentials allowing me to skip the line most often, but this time I was required to stand in line. As I walked the 2 blocks in search of where the people waiting ended. Finally, I get to the back of the line, and Lee popped out the back side of the venue and was checking out the people waiting.
The Funeral Portrait kicked off the show at the House of Blues, and these guys did not waste any time turning it up to 11! They started off the show and you could tell who was there for them vs the others who were wondering who these guys were. I can say that it took maybe two songs, into the third of their set when Lee and the guys won over those who were not familiar with them.he HU hits C
It is a serious flex for the Funeral Portrait to be able to say that they are currently at #2 on the Rock Billboard with their song “Suffocation City”. This hardcore Emo band is constantly evolving and singing about mental wellbeing, depression, and the rest of the emotional gambit that makes us all human, and I will say that even if Emotional Music, or Metal is not for you, I can say with confidence that these guys will hit a chord that all of us can relate to and find comfort in.
The band’s setlist was a well-curated journey, featuring fan favorites and new material that showcased their evolving sound. Songs like “A Thousand Ways to Die,” “Like Father Like Son,” and “Suffocation City” brought out intense mosh pits and sing-alongs, as fans threw themselves into the music. The band’s tight instrumental work supported every high and low of Jennings’ vocals, adding depth and intensity to each song.
The House of Blues provided the perfect backdrop for this intense show. The intimate yet spacious venue allowed the sound to resonate deeply, immersing the audience in the performance. Lighting and visuals added to the dark, theatrical atmosphere, complementing The Funeral Portrait’s emotive style and enhancing the overall impact.
As their time on stage came to an end, the band left the stage to thunderous applause and cheers, with fans ready for the headliner, the HU. The Funeral Portrait proved once again that they are a force to be reckoned with, a band that brings an intense energy and authenticity to every performance.
This would be the 2nd time I have covered the HU. I knew what to expect when I was going in, but I can say that even when you think you know what to expect with the HU, stop assuming! They are going to knock the wind from your lungs, they are going to blow your mind, regardless how prepared you think you are!
I will admit that the first time I heard of the HU, the description made no sense, and just did not click in my head! A Mongolian throat singing metal band? WHAT!?! That does not compute! Then I looked them up on YouTube and their videos were phenomenal! The videos were bolstering of emotion and a modern day battle cry! Their music, to me it reached a melodic and yet primal part of me that wanted to run out and sack and pillage the next town over (not literally, but you get the point)!
The HU kicked off with a slow burn. As the band took the stage, dressed in mostly black traditional attire, the crowd was ready to go after the kick start from the Funeral Portrait, but there was this almost reverent silence as they got into formation. And then, the morin khuur (the two-stringed horsehead fiddle) started its haunting intro. Right from the first note, you could feel the room shift. When they broke into “Gereg,” “Hohochu Zairan,” and so on. It was not till almost at the end that they would play one of my personal favorites, “Wolf Totem,” it was like a war cry, and the audience roared right back.
The thing about The HU is that their music is incredibly heavy, but it’s not the typical face-melting guitar riffs. It’s this massive wall of sound made from traditional Mongolian instruments and chants, blended with driving rock rhythms that somehow just work. Hearing songs like “Yuve Yuve Yu” and “Shoog Shoog” live is a whole different animal compared to the studio versions. Every beat hit you in the chest like a heartbeat, and the throat singing? It is otherworldly—gravelly, deep, but in a way that sticks with you long after the last note.
About halfway through the set, the band paused to address the crowd, and though their English is limited, the emotion behind their words was real. They talked about unity and respecting tradition, and honestly, I’ve never seen a more diverse crowd of metal fans hanging on every word. It’s clear these guys are doing something that resonates beyond the music itself.
For the encore, they broke out “Black Thunder,” which pretty much turned the House of Blues into a battlefield. You could feel the energy bouncing off the walls, with everyone chanting and screaming the words right back at them. I swear, it was like the building was shaking by the end.
The HU isn’t just a band, oh no! They’re a Mongolian force nature. They way that they take to the stage and bring out the deepest emotion and absolute release is unparalleled. Seeing them live was a reminder that metal doesn’t have to be limited to guitars and screaming vocals—sometimes, it’s just raw, primal energy. They’ve carved out their own lane, and judging by the reactions in Cleveland, they’re only going to get bigger.
If you ever get the chance to see The HU live, make sure you do not miss it. This was hands down one of the most memorable shows I’ve ever seen in quite some time! These world class musicians and travelers are more than a concert, they are a cultural phenomenon!
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