It was a packed house for Taylor Acorn at the Thunderbird on Thursday. The opener for the evening was Wilt, the self-described “bedroom rock” band from California. Their fun stage presence and upbeat, yet casual, sound were an instant hit with the early crowd. Their pop-rock vibe with a sound all their own was the perfect way to get fans dancing and even singing along, with some coaching, of course. 

Taylor Acorn took to the stage to entertain a packed house of fans. Touring behind her latest album, “Poster Child,” Acorn barely had to sing her own lyrics as fans took over for her. Although not quite a hometown show, Taylor mentioned that it was nice to be back in her home state, receiving cheers from the crowd. Mid-set, Taylor expressed concern about losing her voice, but her vocals remained on point throughout the evening.

Late in the set, the band paused to bring out “the wheel,” a spinning prize wheel with song names on each space. Taylor pulled a young fan from the crowd and asked her to spin the wheel to decide the next song; it landed on “Homebody.” Making each set unique, the spinning of the wheel is a nightly event. The night finished with a two-song encore, including the fan-favorite “Psycho.” Taylor Acorn’s energetic shows and catchy sing-along lyrics have earned her many diehard fans and will continue to take her far in her career.

​Review/Photo By: Aarika MacIntyre

Starting off the evening was Las Vegas-based singer/songwriter Kami Kehoe. Her stage presence and solid vocals showed the audience why she’s winning fans across the country. She took a seat behind the drum kit and wowed the early attendees with her skills, drumming, singing, and maintaining a high-energy show. 

Next to warm up the crowd were veteran nu-metal rockers P.O.D., who exploded onto the stage and didn’t let up the entire set. Their mix of new tracks and classics was the perfect way to get fans ready for the main acts.

The night’s first headliner was Daughtry. After nearly 20 years of shows, the members of Daughtry run like a well-oiled machine that still knows how to engage a crowd and put on a show. Singer Chris Daughtry shared banter and encouraged the fans to sing along, especially to several songs from their early albums. Daughtry’s vocals were strong with the right amount of distortion to carry the melody while the band entertained fans by making full use of the stage. The biggest fans packed the rail and sang the lyrics to every song right back. The band brought Kami Kehoe out for a duet before slowing down for a solo acoustic track mid-set, and finished with one of their harder tracks, “Heavy is the Crown.”

Rounding out a night of rock and nostalgia were Seether, veterans of the stage for more than two decades. Their setlist consisted of songs from across their discography, bringing Chris Daughtry out for a cameo early in the set; later, Dale Stewart traded his bass for an acoustic guitar for a stripped-down version of “Broken.” Singer Shaun Morgan didn’t spend time chatting; instead showed that his vocals are strong and recognizable as ever. His mic stand (decorated with clown dolls and a single rubber ducky) was a podium, allowing him to preach the gospel of rock and roll. Fans couldn’t get enough and sang along to all of their favorites while being lit up by the stage’s spinning lights. It was the kind of show that brings fans from several generations together and will continue to do so far into the future.

​Review/Photo By: Aarika MacIntyre

 The Used pulled off a massive tour, holding a three-day residency in Indianapolis to play the entirety of their first three albums - one per night – to a packed Old National Centre of screaming fans, some of whom came from as far as Germany to witness the magic. This tour, spanning four legs across multiple cities and countries, commemorates a quarter century as a post hardcore, self-proclaimed emo band. Night one, as it's so affectionately referenced, is dedicated to their debut, self-titled album celebrated for such fan favorites as "Taste of Ink," "Buried Myself Alive," "A Box Full of Sharp Objects," and the softer melodies of "Blue and Yellow."

Indianapolis natives, Best Noodles In Town, graced the stage to begin the night with their alternative rock sound; Their energetic set stirred enthusiasm among a nervously chattering crowd before they closed with heartfelt thanks to The Used for years of inspiration and the opportunity to share the stage.

Before The Used took stage to an uproar of adoration, a gigantic white curtain concealed their elaborate setup while a throwback blog-style video montage played, complete with behind-the-scenes clips and bits of early music videos from the band’s formative years. They opened their set with “Maybe Memories,” the first track from their self-titled album and, according to lore, the first song recorded for their demo in bassist (and matcha enthusiast) Jeph Howard’s makeshift home studio. Despite the passage of an entire quarter century, their performance was as fierce and impassioned as ever, showing no sign of slowing their devotion to the music or their fans. 

Witnessing vocalist Bert McCracken smile ear to ear while the entire Egyptian room sang every lyric in unison is a moment I shan't soon forget; it becomes irrefutable in such a moment, music is the one thing that brings us all together - a sentiment the man himself shared in commentary to the crowded room of hardcore fans. 

From circle pits to seemingly endless streams of crowd surfers, not a single attendee was immobile. Even the venue staff – longtime fans and newcomers alike – were swept up in the intensity of the moment. The night held true to the chaos of The Used's early days and wrapped everyone in a nostalgia blanket of wholesome emotional release, surrounded by new friends, old songs, and memories to cherish evermore.

Review/Photo By: Josie Moreau

The Wrecks rocked The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ, as part of their INSIDE: OUTSIDE tour October 30.

The venue was already packed when the first opener, indie punk band Wall Carpets, came on, treating the audience to loud, explosive songs that had the crowd jumping up and down and screaming with the band. Based in New Jersey, Wall Carpets made sure to emphasize their love for the state, even selling exclusive jerseys at their merch stand only for this show (“jerseys for Jersey”).

Keeping the excitement up, Echo Plum, a New Jersey-based indie rock band, entered the stage next. Their emotional vocals and reverb-heavy guitar melodies made their performance memorable, offering a fresh mix of quiet reflection alongside high-energy enjoyment.

After hours of heavy anticipation, The Wrecks finally came on stage, jumping straight into “Sonder.” The crowd wasted no time in joining lead singer Nick Anderson in singing the lyrics, fanning their arms up and down. Subsequent songs, including “Out of Style” and “Always, Everytime,” had the crowd jumping and swaying back and forth as one mass.

New Jersey pride was strong throughout the entire night, with The Wrecks sharing how The Stone Pony has always been a dream venue of theirs to play in. They then shared an anecdote about how drummer Billy Nally’s old band, First to Friday, beat guitarist Nick Schmidt’s old band, Half Dayz, at a battle of the bands event at the venue in 2012. After choosing volunteer audience members to represent both bands, Anderson had the crowd form a circle in the middle of the pit, declaring, “It’s rematch time motherfuckers.”

As The Wrecks launched into “This Life I Have,” the audience erupted into a mosh pit, dancing and slamming into each other. After another couple songs, including “I Didn’t Use To” from their new album, Anderson brought the tone down with a slower song, “Four,” singing it with only Nick Schmidt playing the guitar as a disco ball hanging from the ceiling spun slowly. 

As “Four” wrapped up, The Wrecks brought the energy back and the crowd was once again dancing with their hands up. Anderson’s incredible vocal range was prominent throughout the show, especially during the high notes of “Freaking Out” and “Fvck Somebody.”

While Schmidt experienced technical difficulties with his guitar, Anderson entertained audiences by spontaneously singing a cover of “Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads, enlisting the help of audience member Ariel, who jumped at the opportunity and killed it on the bass guitar. With the technical difficulties sorted out, The Wrecks launched into “Milwaukee’s Best,” with Ariel diving into the crowd with a running start.

The Wrecks finished out the main set with “Infinitely Ordinary” as the disco ball returned, this time with purple lights that reflected off its surface and covered the venue’s walls. Anderson had the audience shouting “I think I could get used to this life” on repeat before finally walking off stage with the rest of the band.

It didn’t take long for The Wrecks to come back on for an encore, starting with a medley cover of “Over My Head (Cable Car)” by The Fray and “When We Were Young” by The Killers. The Wrecks closed out the night with “Favorite Liar.” As Anderson jumped into the parted crowd and started dancing with everyone, Ariel crowd surfed his way across the audience. The Wrecks left the stage promising that next time they come back they’ll play two nights at The Stone Pony.

As Anderson put it, “Not bad for a week night in Jersey, right?”

​Review/Photo By: ​Jessica Xing

Detroit-based rock band Mac Saturn had audience members on their feet and dancing at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park, NJ, October 24. The five-member band brought original tunes that mixed rock with funk, Motown, and the occasional touch of twang. 

Mac Saturn kicked off the night with groovy songs such as “Plain Clothes Gentleman,” “Sleep,” and “Persian Rugs.” Audience members cheered as lead singer Carson Macc brought out two fistfuls of maracas and danced across the stage with them while singing.

As the energy and crowd grew, the band launched into their single “Mint Julep,” inspiring the many to dance to its punchy lyrics. The performance was made even more fun with Macc occasionally leaning into the mic while shaking and swinging a tambourine in his right hand. His vocals consistently poured through the entire venue as he put 110% into every song with his strong facial expressions and playful dance moves. 

A mix of both upbeat and chill songs ensured a good time for everyone listening. The audience was even treated to multiple solo guitar performances, including an especially notable duet moment between guitarists Nick Barone and Mike Moody, who kicked off “Boxcutter” by effortlessly synchronizing the same riff.

Despite thanking the audience and saying goodnight, Mac Saturn simply couldn’t leave the stage without playing their biggest hit, “Mr. Cadillac.” Nodding their heads while dancing and singing along to the catchy lyrics, the audience did not hesitate to scream “YEAH!” when Mac Saturn ended the song and asked if they had a good time that night. The band then launched into their final song and latest release, “Takes Time,” stressing to the crowd that “it takes time to make time.”

With powerful vocals, groovy dance moves, and striking riffs, Mac Saturn never failed to keep the audience engaged. Mac Saturn provided an intimate show, jamming along with the crowd and making every single person in the crowd feel special and included.

Whether audience members were longtime loyal fans or first time listeners, it was clear that everyone in the Wonder Bar that night went home wanting more Mac Saturn.

​Review/Photo By: ​Jessica Xing

Thursday’s show at the Thunderbird was just the second night of Archers’ Temporary High Tour Part II. While technical difficulties plagued the early acts, the performers took everything in stride and fans showed why Pittsburgh has such a great music scene. 

The first to take the stage was Baltimore’s Dead Eyes, ahead of the release of their debut album on October 10. While their entrance was marred by an initial lack of sound, they quickly patched things up and proceeded to prime the crowd for the evening. Their heavy riffs and high energy had the crowd moving, with many fans singing along. Dead Eyes may be new to the game, but they are quickly earning fans throughout the genre.

Following Dead Eyes, Of Virtue took over. However, they too had some sound problems. While vocalist Tyler Ennis worked to get things back in order, guitarist Damon Tate and drummer Ryan Trinh kept the fans entertained, even leading an acapella rendition of “I Want It That Way” with the crowd. But once the sound sorted, Of Virtue proceeded to rock the crowd with their dual vocals, catchy riffs, and stage antics. Though their set was cut a bit shorter than planned fans were quickly swept up in the energy and left wanting more.

Picking up where Of Virtue left off, Pittsburgh frequent fliers Nerv took over. In their third local show in recent years, Nerv has built up a solid fan base willing to come back time and again. Opening their set with their recent release, “Chaos,” the band didn’t let up on the high intensity show until the very last song. A number of fans sported Nerv shirts and sang along with every song. It’s clear they will always have fans in the city.

Finally, it was time for the headliner, Archers. Veterans of the rock scene, Archers know how to work the crowd. Singer Nathanael Pulley’s broad vocal range was on point, switching from smooth harmonies to screams and back seamlessly. Meanwhile each band member showed off their talents with tight timing and balanced riffs. Fans sang along with new and old tunes, with Archers bringing vocalists from the opening bands to join them on stage late in the set. They returned for a two-song encore of fan-favorites “Blanket Fort” and “Bitter.”

All of the musicians that evening stayed to mingle and chat with fans, who were more than happy to hang out and visit the merch tables. In fact, this show really shows what makes the Pittsburgh music scene special. Despite unexpected pauses in the show and some sound hiccups, fans were patient and traded good-natured banter with the performers. Concert-goers were not hesitant about buying out shirts and records, then staying to have their items signed. It was also obvious that the bands appreciated the support and enjoyed themselves and will be welcomed back anytime.

​Review/Photo By: Aarika MacIntyre

The Spirit Hall in Lawrenceville was the host to Dark Angel on October 1st.  Dark Angel, formed in 1981 is known for their American Thrash Metal music. Lead vocalist Ron Rinehart commanded the stage, and the pit throughout the band's set.  Ron left the stage several times and joined in the pit singing and moshing with the fans in attendance. Ron, even shouting out and playing tribute to the band's fallen member guitarist Jim Durkin. Also touching upon how respectful members of the pit were when a fan had fallen down.  Ron also pointed out a fan who traveled from Poland just to attend the night’s performance.

Despite another show in Pittsburgh, the crowd inside the Spirit Hall were thrashing hard to so many of Dark Angel’s hits.  This was my first experience seeing them live and was very entertained.  Guitarists Eric Meyer and Laura Christine absolutely crushed as well as bassist Mike Gonzalez and drummer Gene Hoglan. 

Their set list was a variety of new and old songs including Darkness Descends, Merciless Death, Burning of Sodom, Time Does Not Heal among many others.

Playing right before Dark Angel was Sacred Reich, a Phoenix Arizona based thrash metal band who played several hits off of their albums Surf Nicaragua and the American Way.  Vocalist Phil Rind wearing a Fuck Ice T-Shirt gave a very impactful speech about the importance of being kind. In a world that it is upside down, I have never felt so much peace, then at a metal show.  His words hit extremely close to home for me.  Never be afraid to tell someone how much they mean to you, because they could be gone tomorrow.
Opening the night was Hirax, a thrash metal band out of California. They really set the tone for the evening. Vocalist Katon W. De Pena is hands down the most expressive vocalist I have seen in a long time. They performed several of their hits including Bombs of Death, El Diablo Negro, Hostile Territory just to name a few!

​Review/Photo By: Bob Piskor

​Nothing is better than emo music on a chilly evening. Once the crowd made their way into the building the room was packed for La Disputes SOLD OUT show at Spirit in Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville neighborhood. Starting off the night was Tummyache, a band that is said to blur the lines between music and personal confession, set the tone with good vibes and soft humor. They put on a good set and it seemed like the crowd really enjoyed them. Washington D.C. rock band Glitterer followed soon after them. Their energy was upbeat and crowd pleasing. Bouncing and jumping around the stage while the crowd bopped along to the music. After their set I could hear fans debating over which of their songs were the best that night.

La Dispute took the stage and the crowd cheered. This was their first time back out in a few years. The band took some time off but got together and created their new album “No One Was Driving The Car” that was released only a few days ago on September 5th via Epitaph Records after releasing their EPs “Here, Hear. IV” in March of 2024. They started off the show with “I Shaved My Head" and “The Most Beautiful Bitter Fruit” before the crowd absolutely lost it when they played “King Park”. There were crowd surfers and people screaming lyrics into the mic. You could literally feel the floor bouncing, the energy was so alive. Before closing out their show with “No One Was Driving the Car” and their encore of "Environmental Catastrophe Film”. If you have a chance to see them on this run, you should!

Review/Photo By: Cheyenne Simmons

​The Crafthouse was packed on a Tuesday for the Queers. Joe Queer, the only surviving original member, has been touring for over 40 years. 

Almost missing this show, the Queers made it to the venue right before they were scheduled to hit the stage as they ran into some van troubles along their way into Pittsburgh. 

The Queers commanded the stage for the next 90 minutes playing some of their most famous hits, See You Later F*ckface, Like a Parasite, Ursula Finally has tits, and so many more.  For being involved in the music scene for over 40 years it was great to see such a variety of age groups jamming in the audience. The Jason’s front man Jason V was leading the charge inside of the pit!

Thanks to the Jason’s, the Cheats, and Right on Warriors who all performed before them, even stretching their times ever so slightly to keep everyone in attendance pumped. 

It was my first time seeing the Jason’s and I was thoroughly entertained by their stage performances. All members were decked out wearing the famous Jason masks and are named after different Jason movies.  They had such a strong support at the show, which is always great to see. 

The Cheats performed before the Jasons. They are a Pittsburgh based punk band who have been around the scene longer than I can count.  I have seen them all over the area. Most importantly, the last time I saw the Queers, they opened for them. 

Review/Photo By: Bobby Piskor

Tuesday night's show opened with a casual yet soulful performance by Morgan Wade. Her country-inspired classic rock sound was just the thing to get the night started without overheating the crowd on the steamy summer night. Wade's command of the stage and dreamy vocals will certainly take her far.

Next to the stage was Bush, bringing late 90s nostalgia to the crowd and quickly bringing up the energy. Vocalist Gavin Rossdale alternately played guitar and walked the Y-shaped catwalk to sing directly to fans. Mid-way through their set, Rossdale hopped the barrier and ran through the crowd, up into the lower-level seating, and then back through the pit before returning to the stage, all while singing their 2020 release "Flowers on a Grave." While security may have been less than thrilled with his antics, fans couldn't get enough of the up-close show. Bush finished their set with fan favorites, prompting singalongs and leaving the crowd wanting more.

Finally, Shinedown took to the stage. Their set began with a figure sporting a television for a head dancing around the stage before displaying popular TV show logos spanning decades. Fog filled the stage as the band emerged. They opened with their latest release and tour namesake, "Dance Kid Dance." The crowd went wild as pyrotechnics exploded during highlights in the music. The energy was high and relentless. Band members made full use of the low catwalk, interacting with fans and keeping the crowd engaged. The unique setup gave many more fans than usual the chance to see their favorite band up close. Shinedown knows how to put on a spectacle while still keeping the music front and center and putting on a stellar performance. Shinedown's show, not to be missed, continues across the country through August.

​Review/Photo By: Aarika MacIntyre

The night started off with DJ Bonics hyping everyone up while the crowd poured in. Over the hour or so DJ Bonics had performances from artists Fedd The God and Chevy Woods. They got the crowd warmed up for the three main acts of the night DaBaby, Sean Paul and Wiz Khalifa.

The first main act of the night was DaBaby. He and his back up dancers came out on stage with so much enthusiasm that set the tone for the performance. Performing songs like “Suge” and “SHAKE SUMN”. Everyone knew how to shake it and not a single person was standing still. The night was off to a great start. Performing after DaBaby was Sean Paul coming out on stage at 110% playing “Get Busy”. The crowd went wild and sang every word like it was the 2000’s again. I remember cracking a sprite and hitting the dance floor when this song came on at a middle school dance. He continued to play all his hits and everything in between before closing out his set with "Temperature”. His whole set brought a sense of nostalgia for me and I enjoyed every moment of it.

After a quick break to roll up everyone was ready to light up in preparation for Wiz Khalifa. In a haze Wiz hit the stage and the good vibes started. Wiz eased us into the set with “What’s Hannin” and “How We Act”. The show just started but everyone was already giving it their all and vibing along with the music. Towards the middle of the set Wiz picked up the pace and the crowd really got going. Coming in hot with songs “Errday” and performing “Taylor Gang” with members on stage. At this point the whole crowd was flying high. At the end of his set he slowed things down again for a moment with “Young Wild Free” and “The Thrill”. Just as the rain was rolling in, “See You Again” started playing. Perfect timing if you ask me. Closing out his hometown show with “Black and Yellow” which is the only way to end his set here in Pittsburgh. Overall if you don’t mind a little contact high it was definitely a good show to see and I recommend it if you're trying to have some good vibes only.

Review/Picture By: Cheyenne Simmons

Upcoming Tour Dates:
July 25: Jiffy Lube Live, Bristow, VA.
July 26: Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, Raleigh, NC.
July 27: Lakewood Amphitheatre, Atlanta, GA.
July 29: Germania Insurance Amphitheater, Austin, TX.
July 31: Isleta Amphitheater, Albuquerque, NM. 
August 1: Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, Phoenix, AZ.
August 3: Toyota Pavilion at Concord, Concord, CA.
August 7: YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park, Inglewood, CA.
August 8: North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre, Chula Vista, CA.
August 9: Great Park, Irvine, CA.
August 12: White River Amphitheatre, Auburn, WA.
August 14: Cascades Amphitheater, Ridgefield, WA.

​

​On Monday June 23rd, Mr Smalls was treated to some unique sounds by Bloodywood. They are an Indian Metal band from New Delhi.  There are some strong social movements associated with some of their songs which made the crowd roar with excitement. 

Their high energy was infectious to the audience. Between head banging and jumping, nobody was left out.   

A Pittsburgh based hard rock band named Shattered played a set right before them. They really had the crowd pumped. 

The opening act, a two person band called Your Siiick started off the evening, playing a handful of their original songs. 

Review/Photo By: Bob Piskor

​The Roxian Theater was grooving on Tuesday May 20th as George Clinton’s Parliament Funkadelic were in town!  The Pittsburgh rain did not chase anyone away, as the line to get into the Roxian went as far as the eye could see. George Clinton has been playing music for almost 70 years and still has not missed a beat.  He has worked with so many hip hop icons like TuPac, Snoop, Dre, Ice Cube and so many more. Also, his voice was featured in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.

George made it out on stage to a thunderous roar from the packed crowd dressed in his famous sequined hat and robe.  P-Funk as they are often referred as have an interesting hip hop, funk, and rock n roll sound. This atmosphere made everyone move their feet for the entire evening.

If you are looking for a fun evening, I highly suggest checking out one of their shows. You are guaranteed to feel the funk!

Review/Photo By: Bob Piskor

Indianapolis natives, a notable hometown powerhouse of a band, Normundy, finished off their Immolate Tour with the feral prowess of tourmates FivebyFive at Black Circle on Saturday. Setting the tone for a verily enthralling night at such an unassuming venue with an outside presentation more akin to a geriatric office building than a music space; inside, however, immediately floods with authentic rock show experience featuring highly graffitied bathrooms and can't-be-ruined-by-mosh-pit- enthusiasts barstools: Chaos In Composure was first to grace the stage delivering a performance that left no clues this was their first time and it certainly won't be their last with a transfixing presence.
Taking stage after the opening newbies came a rare treat in the likes of female fronted Palecurse, a band you don't want to sleep on if you love it when the music hits you like a crowdsurfer boot to the head- unsuspectingly unforgettable just the same. There is something to be adored in a powerful vocalist commanding any room to witness such talent. A voice that makes it easy to forget she has band mates alongside her, but this performance gave us the comfort of familiarity we didn't know we needed before the stark intensity of the band to follow.

FivebyFive will leave you feeling hyped between the witty banter, light hearted shenanigans and a stage presence to fully match their unapologetic intense sound mixing rock, trap and metal: witnessing their captivating performance and stopping by their merch booth will have you giggling harder about their self proclaimed "music that cures even the worst case of daddy issues" bio line. Those gents know how to bring the heat and chill it out with all the humor; a fabulous lead up to the headliner and arguably most neck breaking performance of the night. Normundy brings a stage presence that will have you questioning if you were given the wrong ticket; a phenomenally enthralling experience rivaling veteran bands like Papa Roach and Fever333, you will soon find yourself effortlessly earning that bangover from rocking out so uncontrollably. From verily talented dual vocalists to well dressed baddies absolutely slaying guitars and a sincerely unique sound, it's hard to believe this band isn't already dominating sold out rooms with thousands of people. Moreso when you stop by their merch booth to find the softest hoodies and most comfortable beanies of your life.

  Hands down, closing night for the Immolate Tour was immeasurably one well worth the time that shall not soon be forgotten!

Review/Photo By: ​Josie Moreau

​Carbon Leaf has been making music for the better part of 30 years, often describing their sound as “ether-electrified porch music,” after an early album. It’s the kind of music that you can sit back and enjoy, or get up and dance and sing along in harmony, depending on your mood. The band’s music has evolved over the years, including a subset of songs with a distinctly celtic flair, making them a staple across the country’s Irish festivals. But with the long-awaited release of their 2024 album Time is the Playground, Carbon Leaf takes a fresh look at their porch music style. 

Tuesday’s show featured six new songs from the new album, interspersed throughout the show with fan-favorites from across their discography. They opened with the new album’s title track, moving seamlessly through the setlist and keeping the energy flowing. This show was the first after an unexpected break in touring for guitarist Terry Clark’s rotator cuff surgery, but the band didn’t miss a beat, literally or figuratively. That did, however, lead to plenty of jokes about the difficulties of getting older. Still, the band performs like a well-oiled machine. The setlist was thoughtfully crafted and the banter entertaining. It’s the kind of performance that comes from years on the road together while remaining passionate about their craft.

The new songs and this tour feels both familiar and fresh. Singer Barry Privett’s lyrics are deeply personal and nostalgic but also relatable. The guitar and mandolin driven melodies had the audience clapping along, easily joining to sing in harmony with the band. Near the end of the set, Carbon Leaf brought out their signature one-mic setup, with all 5 members performing several acoustic songs around a single microphone at center stage before returning to ramp up the energy with a few Irish-inspired favorites. 

After a brief break, Carbon Leaf returned to the stage for a two-song encore, discussing their many previous visits to the Pittsburgh area and highlighting the variety of local venues available for artists in all stages of their careers. They finished the evening with their 2004 song “Let Your Troubles Roll By,” giving guitarist Carter Gravatt time to show off his talents before finishing the show and taking a bow to a standing ovation from the audience. It’s clear that Carbon Leaf will always be welcome to visit Pittsburgh and will always have fans here to sing along.

Review/Photo By: Aarika MacIntyre

​The Roxian was packed and ready to go on Friday as Chiodos brought their tour celebrating the 25th anniversary of their debut album, All’s Well That Ends Well. From the first song of the opening band, the crowd was in a high-energy mood and ready to mosh. First to the stage, The Callous Daoboys from Atlanta, started the night with fast, intense beats accompanied by heavy guitar and violin riffs. Their 30-minute set was relentless, quickly setting high expectations for the evening. They were followed by Emmure who picked up where the Daoboys left off, bringing the first crowd surfers out of the pit with their heavy sound and solid vocals. Though only a 4-piece band, Emmure had a huge stage presence and everyone was primed and ready for the main acts of the evening.

Following the two openers, emo legends Hawthorne Hights took to the stage in matching jumpsuits. Despite the main theme of the night being hardcore, Hawthorne Heights fit right into the mix. Their singable melodies and more than 20 years performing together made their set tight and memorable. Vocalist JT Woodruff joked that although the other bands may have a harder sound, Hawthorne Heights was really the most metal of them all, since their music hit your emotions. Though not quite mosh-pit energy, the entire Roxian crowd was on their feet screaming the words to “Ohio is for Lovers” to close out their 45-minute set. Band members even took a few minutes to greet fans at the merch table after their performance.

Finally, and with much anticipation, Chiodos took to the stage. Vocalist Craig Owens, the only original member of the band, grabbed the audience’s attention and didn’t let go. His high-energy performance brought the mosh pit to a frenzy. Chiodos played All’s Well That Ends Well in full, and the crowd shouted every lyric over the tight and well-rehearsed music. What was clearly a pivotal album for many was only the first half of an unforgettable night. After a brief break and background change for the stage, Chiodos returned to play some fan-favorites, much to the delight of the crowd. For well over an hour, fans danced, moshed, and partied away their Friday night to songs that brought back memories for many. This was not a show where people began to shuffle for the doors to avoid traffic. This was a nostalgia-fueled show with energy that leaves fans craving more. Since their return to the stage late last year, Chiodos has an obviously ravenous fan base who will surely support many more years of touring.

Review/Photo By: Aarika MacIntyre

Taking the stage first was Nothing More, a Texas- based group who have been performing since 2003. Although they did not achieve mainstream success until the mid-2010s, it is clear they have built a loyal and passionate fan base. Vocalist Jonny Hawkins took the stage in his signature style: shoeless and shirtless and covered in black and white body paint. He expertly prowled the catwalk and pandered to the crowd while delivering strong vocals and a high-energy performance. Not to be out-shined by their frontman, the band leant their own energy with strong, tight guitars and headbanging drums. It may have been a long road for the group, but it likely won't be long now until they headline an arena four of their own.

Next to the stage was Daughtry, Aband made famous after singer Chris Daughtry's American Idol showing in 2006. Although they may have made their name with a lighter rock sound, Daughtry has since been leaning into A heavier sound, as evidenced by recent collaborations with rockers Bad Wolves and Nothing More. The group's performance featured heavy guitar and drums which perfectly complemented Chis Daughtry's strong clear vocals. Their sound grabbed the audience and got everyone primed for the main act.

Finally, the crowd reached the height of anticipation as Disturbed appeared behind a translucent curtain. Singer David Draiman was wheeled onto the stage and mask reminiscent of Hannibal Lecter. The band quickly moved to the opening chords of "Voices,” the first song on their debut album, The Sickness. for the 25th anniversary of this album which spawned a generation of metal fans, Disturbed played two sets. The first set featured The Sickness in full, while the second set featured a collection of greatest hits. 

They may be 25 years older, but the band sounded exactly the same. The music was tight as ever, with Draiman's signature vocals leading the crowd. The stage featured a large, industrial backdrop with occasional pyrotechnics exploding to the beat. Though bright and attention - grabbing, the sparks and flames only enhanced the power of the songs instead of distracting the crowd. Though a band of only 4, the members of Disturbed took over the stage and wowed fans, showing why they have been a metal powerhouse for 2 and a half decades.

Review/Photo By: ​Aarika MacIntyre

Nashville-based duo Doublecamp opened the show at the Thunderbird with an energetic set, encouraging the audience to sing and clap along to almost every song. Their pop/hip-hop inspired vocals and bass-driven sound warmed up the crowd, getting everyone moving and in the mood to dance along. Doublecamp had some fans of their own in the crowd, singing along to all of their music. Those who had never heard of the group were quickly won over, and visited the merch booth after the show to chat, take photos, and support the band.

Sub-Radio has built up a loyal audience online with their fun, catchy, and relatable social media content, most of which appears to have been filmed in their practice space: a basement. Their stage presence is just as high-energy, with endlessly repeatable lyrics and strong vocals backed by tight musical performances. Sub-Radio opened the show with their summer sing-along “Pink Lemonade” prompting singalongs from the first notes. 

Mid-way through the 90-minute set, singer Adam Bradley, who is openly bisexual, discussed the challenges of living in Washington DC and encouraged the crowd to support the trans community in any way they can. He also called for an end to silence, inviting fans to “make anyone who would tear down or scapegoat transgender people the object of your mockery, ridicule and scorn… it’s time to stop screwing around.” He then enlisted the “people of Pittsburgh, go out and be mean to your local bigot tomorrow.” This statement was met with cheers from every member of the audience, before the band moved seamlessly into their song “Cool,” a song about loving and accepting yourself exactly as you are.

The band also teased the release of a new album “in just a few short months” by playing several new songs touching on mental health and curating a brand new singalong to “heaven heaven heaven,” a song Bradley called the upcoming album’s “thesis statement.” He explained that although we may have plenty of nostalgia and wishing for better days of the past, the real joy is finding heaven with who you have right beside you, right now.

Sub-Radio’s show was about music, fun, singing, and dancing to all of the fans favorite songs. But it was also a place for the crowd to come together and be unapologetically themselves, and curating a community of like-minded folks in real life and not just on social media. The band is a beacon of light and hope for those who feel downtrodden, and it’s clear the fans respond to the message. 

​Review/Photo By: ​Aarika MacIntyre

I have photographed artist such as Aurora who uses the same techniques and similar styles. This includes riffs, reverb, as well as hitting really high notes. Norwegian musicians drastically use their voice a lot more than instruments when it comes to their work. I assumed I would be seeing something similar at tonight’s show, but was blown away by the diverse vocal range.

The artist Sylvaine music is the finishing piece of when you mix Norwegian multi-instrumental music. When you first look at this artist you see she is youthful. Her long flowing blonde hair gives her the otherworldly look. Her delicate facial features, yet intense expressiveness.
She has a striking and ethereal presence that perfectly compliments her atmosphere.
Throughout her serious and composed demeanor during the show is an artist that engages to her audience after the songs are over. Separating herself from her art.

In her album she uses a mix of black metal- post rock and show gaze. This creates a deep balance of delicate,reverb, as well as riffs that cause an echo around all of the audience. 

Her songs explore themes such as existence, inner struggle, nature, and spirituality. Most of which is in Norwegian, even if you don’t understand the lyrics you will through the sound. Her song (“L’appel Du Vide”) played above this previous photo shows exactly how raw the riffs of the guitar and speed can correlate to its meaning.

One of her popular songs involving raw vocals almost screamo is (“Mørklagt”). To anyone who isn’t used to this type of music you would think a woman wouldn’t be the one behind the microphone!  Sylvaine Music uses techniques such as kulning for the high pitches verses to signify a loss, and deep expression.

To anyone who has never heard of Norwegian music, or seen an artist they sound exactly like they do when they upload it. One of the very large growing group of artist who does not use auto tune or high editing in their work. It is very natural and engaging. 

Review/Photos By: Maya McKeefery​