Attending Kat Von D’s live performance at new music venue, The Offset, in Chicago was an unexpected delight that I didn’t know I needed. As someone who had only seen her through the lens of her makeup artistry and television persona, I walked in with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. Would she be just another celebrity trying to dabble in music, or could she genuinely captivate an audience?
From the moment she stepped on stage, any doubts melted away. The energy in the venue was electric, and Kat commanded it effortlessly. Her presence was magnetic, and it was clear she wasn’t just performing; she was sharing a piece of her soul with the audience. The first few chords of her opening song sent a wave of excitement through the crowd, and I found myself swept up in the moment.
Her voice—rich and emotive—was a pleasant surprise. It carried an authenticity that felt refreshingly raw, far removed from the polished studio versions I had heard before. Each note resonated with depth, and her lyrical storytelling drew me in, painting vivid images that lingered long after the last song faded. The setlist was a perfect blend of haunting melodies and powerful anthems, showcasing her versatility as an artist. See/hear for yourself with the video/photo gallery below!
What struck me most was her genuine connection with the audience. Between songs, she shared anecdotes and insights that revealed her passion for music and the stories behind her craft. It felt personal, as if she was inviting us into her world. The crowd, in turn, was supportive and enthusiastic, creating a palpable sense of community that made the experience even more special.
As the night unfolded, I found myself completely immersed. The visuals were stunning, enhancing each performance with captivating artistry that echoed her background in tattooing and design. It was more than just a concert; it was a full sensory experience.
Walking out of the venue, I couldn’t help but smile, feeling uplifted and inspired. Sometimes, the best surprises come from the most unexpected places, and this performance was a beautiful reminder of that truth.
]]>Stabbing Westward’s electrifying performance at House of Blues in Chicago on April 26th was a high-octane journey through their iconic hits and pulsating new tracks. With raw energy and passion, the Illinois-based band delivered an 18-track show that left the crowd buzzing with excitement. From the moment they took the stage, Stabbing Westward commanded attention, showcasing their trademark blend of industrial rock and infectious melodies. Frontman Christopher Hall’s captivating vocals soared over the driving rhythms, captivating the audience and creating an electric atmosphere. With flawless execution and an undeniable stage presence, Stabbing Westward proved once again why they are legends of the alternative music scene.
Catch the band in West Palm Beach, Florida on May 10. Also, on May 12, they’ll be in Charlotte, NC. Stabbing Westward’s official website can be accessed: HERE.
House of Blues – Chicago – April 26, 2024 – SETLIST:
Together, these three acts delivered an electrifying performance that spanned decades of music, leaving fans exhilarated and craving more. It was a celebration of the past, present, and future of industrial rock, reminding us why this genre continues to captivate audiences nationwide. Speaking of which, the tour continues and the link to upcoming dates can be found here: TOUR DATES
For more information on I Ya Toyah, as well as the official websites of Cold and Orgy, please see the links at the bottom of this page.
Official Links:
Orgy
Cold
I Ya Toyah
The colossal lineup features over 65 artists across five stages, including System of a Down, Slipknot, Bring Me The Horizon, A Perfect Circle, Alice In Chains, Danny Elfman, Bad Omens, Sleep Token, Knocked Loose, and many more.
The festival begins at 11:00 am on Saturday, April 27th and will end at Midnight. That’s thirteen full hours of live music amazingness at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds!
BE THERE!
Sick New World Official Website —-> CLICK HERE!
The Foundry
Lakewood OH
November 16, 2023
By Andrew Latshaw
On a chilly November night, the Foundry Concert Club in Lakewood, Ohio, was transformed into a cauldron of electrifying energy as Moldovan nu-metal band Infected Rain took the stage, igniting the crowd with their powerful performance. As the opening act for Gemini Syndrome and Wednesday13, Infected Rain proved to be a force to be reckoned with, captivating the audience with their unique blend of heavy riffs, melodic vocals, and captivating stage presence.
From the moment they stepped onto the stage, Infected Rain exuded an aura of confidence and charisma. Fronted by the dynamic Lena Scissorhands, whose powerful vocals soared over the band’s thunderous sound, the band immediately commanded the attention of the crowd. Their setlist was a whirlwind of fan favorites and new material, each song delivered with an intensity that left the audience breathless.
The band’s music is a potent mix of nu-metal, alternative metal, and electronic elements, creating a soundscape that is both heavy and atmospheric. Scissorhands’ vocals are a standout, ranging from soaring melodies to guttural screams, adding a layer of emotion and intensity to the music. The band’s tight musicianship and energetic performance were undeniable, as they effortlessly transitioned from heavy breakdowns to soaring melodies, keeping the crowd engaged throughout their set.
Infected Rain’s performance was a masterclass in stage presence. Scissorhands was a captivating performer, commanding the stage with her powerful vocals and energetic movements. The rest of the band was equally engaging, their movements synchronized and their energy infectious. The band’s connection with the crowd was palpable, as they fed off the audience’s energy and gave them a performance that the crowd would not soon forget.
Infected Rain’s setlist included some of their most popular songs, such as “Never to Return,” “Black Satellite,” and “Storm.” They also played a few new songs off their upcoming album, which were met with enthusiastic applause from the crowd. The band closed their set with an encore of their hit song “The Void,” leaving the crowd wanting more.
Infected Rain’s performance at the Foundry was a night to remember. The band proved that they are one of the most exciting and innovative nu-metal bands out there, and their performance left the crowd in awe. With their powerful music, captivating stage presence, and undeniable talent, Infected Rain is destined for greatness.
Gemini Syndrome, is American alternative rock band based out of Los Angeles, was up next and in direct support for the headliner, Wednesday13. The band, known for their dark and atmospheric sound, delivered a powerful performance that captivated the audience from start to finish.
The venue was packed to capacity with eager fans, a couple of whom had been waiting years to see Gemini Syndrome perform live. The energy was unmistakable as the band took to the stage and launched into their hit song “Stardust”. The crowd erupted in cheers, and sang along to every word, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Throughout the night, Gemini Syndrome showcased their impressive musical talent, performing a diverse set of songs from their three studio albums. The band’s music is a blend of heavy riffs, soaring melodies, and electronic beats, and their live performance is equally captivating.
Lead singer Aaron Nordstrom was in top form, his powerful vocals soaring over the band’s instrumentation. He commanded the stage with his charismatic presence, engaging the crowd and creating a sense of intimacy with the audience.
The band’s performance was enhanced by a stunning light show that perfectly complemented the music. The lights pulsed and changed color in sync with the beats, creating a visually immersive experience.
The crowd was dancing and singing along to every song. The energy was invigorating, and the feeling of unity among the fans was undeniable!
Gemini Syndrome’s performance at The Foundry was an unforgettable night of music. The band delivered a powerful and captivating show that left the crowd warmed up and ready for the headliner. If you’re a fan of alternative rock, I highly recommend catching Gemini Syndrome live in concert.
Following Gemini Syndrome’s captivating set, anticipation reached a fever pitch as Wednesday 13, the Godfather of Horror Punk, prepared to take the stage. The lights flickered ominously, and as the opening chords of “The World According to Revenge” blared through the speakers, Wednesday 13 appeared, a menacing figure clad in a black leather jacket and an awesome Dracula t-shirt.
With his signature blend of punk rock, horror imagery, and a touch of macabre swagger, Wednesday 13 captivated the crowd from the very first note. His setlist covered the Murderdolls’ legacy, each song delivered with a fiery intensity that ignited the mosh pit in the packed and sold-out venue!
Wednesday 13’s stage presence was undeniable, as they prowled the stage, interacting with the crowd and feeding off their energy. His vocals were raw and powerful, perfectly conveying the dark and twisted themes of his lyrics.
As the final notes of Wednesday 13’s set echoed through The Foundry, the crowd erupted in applause, their voices shaking the very foundation of the venue. It was clear that this night would be etched into the memories of all who attended, a night where heavy music reigned supreme, and the Foundry became a sanctuary for the macabre.
Infected Rain, Gemini Syndrome, and Wednesday 13 proved that they are not just bands; they are forces of nature, capable of conjuring up emotions that range from fear and despair to exhilaration and defiance. Their performances were not just concerts; they were experiences, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who witnessed their musical magic.
Infected Rain Website | Facebook | YouTube | VK | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok |
Gemini Syndrome Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram |
Wednesday 13 Website | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram |
]]>From the moment of the first note at Chicago’s House of Blues, Skinny Puppy seized control of the atmosphere, plunging the crowd into a world where industrial beats collided with haunting synthscapes. The stage, adorned with dystopian visuals and flickering lights, set the tone for an immersive experience that transcended the typical concert setting.
Cevin Key’s masterful manipulation of synthesizers and samples was nothing short of alchemy, transforming the venue into an industrial cathedral of sound. The layers of electronic textures were meticulously woven together, creating a sonic tapestry that engulfed the audience in a relentless barrage of auditory stimulation.
The visual component of the show was equally integral to the experience. A multimedia onslaught of disturbing and thought-provoking imagery played across screens, complementing the music’s intensity. The synchronization of visuals with the sonic onslaught created a synesthetic experience that was as mentally challenging as it was sonically captivating.
Special guest and opener, Paul Barker’s Lead Into Gold’s live performance was a sonic alchemy—a transformative experience that fused the raw energy of industrial music’s roots with the sophistication of modern electronic production. And, as we say farewell to Skinny Puppy, we can be assured that Paul Barker’s (and Josh Holley) Lead Into Gold will remain a potent force, capable of captivating audiences and pushing the boundaries of sonic exploration for years to come.
In conclusion, Skinny Puppy’s Final Tour live performance at Chicago’s House of Blues was a testament to industrial music as a whole and an enduring influence and ability to push the boundaries of sonic experimentation. For fans of industrial music, it was an unforgettable and sonic end of an era —one that left an indelible mark on the auditory senses and reinforced Skinny Puppy’s status as pioneers in the realm of electronic mayhem.
Setlist:
Official Websites:
Skinny Puppy
Lead Into Gold