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JUNKMAN's Epic Rock On The Range Recap By Junkman, On-Air Personality Thursday, June 12, 2014 @ 7:25 AM
Upon arriving on Thursday night, I was whisked directly from the airport, to downtown
Columbus, and the LC Pavillion the venue for Roast On The Range, a "Celebrity Roast"
style honoring of SLIPKNOT/ STONE SOUR frontman Cory Taylor, sponsored by
Revolver Magazine and Guitar World Magazine. Previous 'Honorees" have included Zakk
Wylde in 2012 and Dee Snider in 2013. Upon arriving and getting my credentials,
I was thrust next to the "Red Carpet" and was able to catch some of the attendees and all
of the "Roasters" who would be occupying the onstage dais.
The first person I spoke to was the evenings "Roastmaster', former SKID ROW singer
Sebastian Bach, who, at first, really looked like a deer caught in the headlights,
but soon became his natural overpowering personality. Bach knows how to command attention,
and the media attending were fawning all over him. He told me that he had always wanted to
do something like this, and said he was well prepared for the amount of insults that would
be heaved his way throughout the evenings festivities.
Just like that, with a greeting of "hey dude", the next person I spoke with was the man
himself, Cory Taylor. Always personable, he again said he was well prepared for an
evening of "shit-slinging" from a group of his friends, and when I asked him if that
included a "deflector-shield", he replied, "most definately"....
The members of the dais arrived, did some short interviews on the red carpet, and headed to
a VIP are where they were served dinner. I used this time to unwind after my long flight,
and grabbed a huge beer, and checked out the massive venue. LC Pavillion is a two-level
concert venue that has a large rotating stage, that during fair weather, can be rotated to
an outside ampitheater. What a great idea! I wish we had a place like this in Los
Angeles.
Soon it was show time, and my friend Jose Mangin, from Sirius XM's "Liquid Metal"
satellite radio show, who served as the evenings DJ and MC, introduced one by one, the
members of the dais, including That Metal Show co-hosts Jim Florentine
and Don Jameson, comedians Brian Posehn, Craig Gass and Finesse
Mitchell, and musicians M Shawn "Clown" Crahan (Taylor's bandmate in
SLIPKNOT), HATEBREED's Jamey Jasta, as well as ANTHRAX's
Scott Ian and his lovely wife, singer Pearl Aday. Finally he introduced
Sebastian Bach, who got a huge applause from the sold out crowd.
Next it was time for Bach to bring up the man of the hour, Cory Taylor, looking
resplendent in a blue patterned suit that resembled the loud one that Frankie Banali
wore on the "We're Stars" video way back when (How's THAT for an 80's
reference?). Taylor seated himself on a comfy chair, center stage, smiled, and for the next
few hours listened to this group sling plenty of insults and dick jokes, at him. Lots of
laughs, and after seeing some of the previous roasts look incredibly uncomfortable and not
really funny, this one was much smoother, in my opinion. I even watched "Clown" drink his
own piss! LOL Here's a YouTube link to some of the evenings festivities:
After some well deserved sleep that evening, my cronies and I made it to Crew Stadium and
picked up our credentials and headed to the Jagermeister Stage just in time to witness a
great set by KILL DEVIL HILL. It turned out to be one of the highlights of the
weekend, and there were many! This band, flat out kicks ass. Singer Dewey Bragg has
that growly kind of voice that makes the hair on your arms stick up. Guitarist Mark
Zavon is a total shredder, pounding out chop after chop, until your ears bleed. Former
TYPE O NEGATIVE drummer Johnny Kelly (who replaced original drummer Vinnie
Appice this past year) and former PANTERA bassist Rex Brown round out the
quartet and supply the brutal foundation. This was the ultimate kick start to the ultimate
rock fest, and to make it even more over the top, an appearance by none other than
PANTERA singer Phil Anselmo, joining that band for a killer version of
PANTERA's "Mouth For War" to end the set, and send the crowd into
hyperspace. Here's a YouTube link to that performance:
After the set, I spent some time in the media tent, which was buzzing with delegates from
across the country, alive with interviews and live updates. I actually spoke with the
members of KDH, who will continue to rip it up on the road. Don't miss them! Pick up
their latest CD, Revolution Rise, it's a MUST HAVE for any head-bangers
collection. Check them out on www.killdevilhillmusic.com for all updates.
While in the tent, I also had a chance to speak with DEVOUR THE DAY vocalist
Blake Allison, who had just finished their set on the "Ernie Ball Stage" on the
other side of Crew Stadium. Rising from the ashes of the band EGYPT CENTRAL, Allison
and guitarist/bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser reformed as DTD and have taken to
the road with some touring members. He was obviously pumped up about their opening set on
the Ernie Ball Stage, as he told me how much he appreciates the bands following. "We come
out swinging", was the way he described their set, and I couldn't describe it any better. I
noticed that there were quite a few people in the crowd sporting DTD T-shirts, so I
think that people are starting to take notice. Check out their website for all things
DEVOUR THE DAY-www.devourtheday.com. here's a fan-filmed video of them doing
"Good Man" live at Rock On The Range 2014
I then ventured out to the Monster Main stage, just in time to catch a great set, as
always, from BLACK STONE CHERRY. These guys from Kentucky just released a brand new
album, Magic Mountain, and continue to be one of the best live acts in the
country. Guitarist Ben Wells is all over the stage, kicking and jumping while
pounding out great crunchy chords. Singer Chris Robertson looks like a refrigerator
repairman, but can belt out songs like their latest single "Me And Mary
Jane", as if he's callin' hogs. Drummer John Fred Young is one of the
hardest bashers on the scene today, hitting his drums like he stole them. Truly, one of my
favorite live acts to see, and they never disappoint.
Here is what they played:
SELIST
SETLIST
As the final band to appear on the Jagermiester stage on Day 1 of the festival, Italian
band LACUNA COIL had a pretty big task of commanding the attention of the now, sun
soaked and semi-inebriated crowd, who no doubt, were going through the same dilemma that I
just mentioned. I am proud to say, they were as satisfying to me and they rest of the
crowd, as I had hoped. Although they only got to play six songs, LACUNA COIL kicked
ass! Co-Lead singers Andy Ferro and the beautiful Cristina Scabbia were the
center of attention, switching sides of the stage and smiling, while pumping the crowd up
to a crescendo. "Spellbound", the second song they played, really brings out
the best in Scabbia's voice. To use a basketball term, it's like Ferro has the task of
setting up the song for her like a "Pick and Roll" play, to see her "slam dunk" the chorus.
Yeah, I just said that...my point being, they really work together as a team. Did I mention
that she is really easy on the eyes? They have a new album out, Broken Crown
Halo, and half the set was dedicated to it. I'm sure the F.Y.E. music booth sold a
lot of copies of it after their brief but very satisfying show.
SETLIST
The big reason, naturally, is their charismatic singer Phil Anselmo. After
basically, getting out of bed to sing the PANTERA song "Mouth For War"
earlier in the day with KILL DEVIL HILL, as I mentioned earlier, it was now
about 6 hours later, and he is on fire. Pacing the stage and mugging for the audience, he
punctuated the opening two songs "Eyes Of The South" and
"Witchtripper" with pleads to the audience to get crazy. I know it's kind of
a rock star cliche to do that, but, Anselmo has his own way of exciting a crowd. You just
have to see it. It also doesn't hurt to have Pepper Keenan and new member Bobby
Landgraf on guitar, behind him, as well as the thunderous rhythm section of bassist
Patrick Bruders and Jimmy Bowers on drums.
After Brown left to a huge applause, DOWN finished their set with an extended
version of "Bury Me In Smoke", joined onstage by members of LIVING
COLOUR. Anselmo, sang that song like it was the last time he was ever going to sing it,
just bashing away at the front of the drum kit as LIVING COLOUR drummer Will
Calhoun played accent after accent on the cymbals. naturally the crowd at the Ernie
Ball stage screamed and screamed for more, butthat was the end of the set. Just pure power
all the way through.
SETLIST
The second day of the festival started out as kind of a blur. A light rain was falling on
the festival grounds, and forecasts called for showers all day. Didn't happen. Stayed kind
of gloomy, and I guess, that would be the reason for the blurry vibe that I sensed. I also
got to the festival kind of late, still a little dazed from the events of the day before
and the lack of sleep. I checked in at the media tent and made my way to the main stage to
catch REV THEORY, a band I had not seen in a while.
RLT came out, stormtroopin'. Singer Rich Luzzi, intent on getting the crowd
pumped up, was a virtual cheerleader and snarled his way through the opening number
"Red Light Queen". The band was amped up, and the up-tempo, 7 song set was a
real wake up call for myself an several thousand other "Rangers" for what turned out to be
the best day of talent on the Monster Main Stage. Finishing the set with their biggest hit
"Hell Yeah", the dampened crowd roared their approval as the band left the
stage.
SETLIST
I headed back to the main stage and caught a few tunes from FUEL, who played a very
subdued, but hit filled set. Songs like "Jesus Or A Gun", "Shimmer" and
"Bittersweet" seem to be on the Ipod of every woman I know. Singer Brett
Scallions is quite the crooner, and by the time FUEL wrapped up their set
with MY personal favorite song of theirs, "Hemorrhage (In My Hands)", it made
me think of SEETHER and STAIND. Great songs, not much on stage performance.
Maybe I just need to see them in a smaller venue, as the massive Crew Stadium is much more
conducive to bigger acts.
So now, I had to get crafty, as set times were getting tight, and I wanted to see as many
bands as I could, I would have to really motivate my way through the 3 stages, quickly. I
plotted my shortcuts through some restricted areas, and pulled off a few miracles. I ran
through the backstage area, and through the F.Y.E tent, to get to the Ernie Ball Stage, and
catch the first few songs from TEXAS HIPPIE COALITION.
All eyes are on the enormous lead singer Big Dad Rich. Sporting a ten gallon hat and
a fifty gallon beer-belly, he had his Texas sized growl with him as well. The band is
rock-solid and the crowd loved them. I loved Rich's mic stand, which was fashioned out of a
shotgun. I will have to see them again, when I can catch a full set.
The Mission Impossible theme was playing in my head, as I navigated my way
back to the main stage. Made it just in time to see POP EVIL. Straight ahead,
aggressive rock. They are a great live band, constantly in motion, in particular singer
Leigh Kakaty. A ball of energy all through their 10 song set which culminated by
bringing out the US Marines Color guard and RUN DMC's Darryl McDaniel for a
pumped up version of "Trenches". Here's a Youtube look at that great moment.
SETLIST
Again back to the main stage I went, to catch THEORY OF A DEADMAN. With a very
aggressive set, they thrilled their fans, with a 9 songs that included plenty of sing-
along's for their fans. Singer Tyler Connolly is a big hit with the ladies, although
with songs like "Lowlife" and "Bitch Came Back", you would
think the opposite. But girls love the "bad boy", and they shrieked and screamed throughout
the set which culminated with "Bad Girlfriend". Check out these YouTube
videos that will give you some insight on the action up front.
http://youtu.be/pAMUA9PCZCc
SETLIST
And what a great set it was. Back on the road after a brief break due to some voice issues,
singer Taylor Momsen is a bonafide rockstar. The band, Momsen, guitarist Ben
Phillips, bassist Mark Damon and drummer Jamie Perkins, rocked the
Columbus crowd with a 7 song set that drew heavily on their latest CD, Going To
Hell. Momsen, slinked and swayed around her microphone stand and around guitarist
Phillips, shifting from a subtle moan to a primal scream on songs like "Sweet
Things" and "Make Me Wanna Die". I enjoyed it, and would like to see
a lot more of this band, and plan on it. Check out this YouTube clip:
SETLIST
ST came out viciously with the one-two punch of "You Can't Bring Me
Down" and "War Inside My Head". Band members were jumping around the
stage at a furious pace throughout the set. Singer Mike Muir, as always, looks like
a man possessed. His cholo bandana almost covering his eyes, as he paces back and forth,
and runs to each side of the stage like a caged beast. The crowd surfers and moshers were
in war mode, bodies were flying everywhere, although that is normal at any ST show.
You just expect it, and I have witnessed it many times. There is more energy spent during
their set than just about at any point during the weekend, which is cool, because that is
what it's all about, releasing your aggression. After the photographers were tossed from
the pit after the third song ("Possessed to Skate"), I decided to high-tail
it out of there to the friendly confines of the Monster Main stage. I needed to prepare
myself for the onslaught that would follow. 50,000 or so, crazy lunatics, all hyped up for
a set from none other than the kings of thrash-SLAYER!
SETLIST
Opening with "Shepherd Of Fire", the opening track from their latest
Hail To The King release was punctuated by massive amounts of pyrotechnics,
which thrilled the crowd and warmed them up on a chilly damp evening. Singer M.
Shadows, as always, was on his game, shouting to the crowd, and providing spot on
vocals to many of their most popular tunes, like "Nightmare" and "Bat
Country". Guitarists Synyster Gates and Zacky Vengence
(LOL I always laugh at their names...) are technically superb, but always look like they
are bored, or would rather be somewhere else. AVENGED's stage set is second to none.
Spooky looking stained glass castle vibe throughout, again, with constant flames that
accent every riff.
I don't know how the ROTR crowd kept up their energy after such a heavy day,
although that is a tribute to AVENGED SEVENFOLD's popularity and quality live show.
I was exhausted, and, by the time AS encored with "Unholy
Confessions", I was on my way out, ready to soak my feet and crack open a cold one,
resting up for day three of the festival.
SELIST
Sunday morning came with sunny skies, and a bittersweet attitude. It would be the last day
of the Festival, and for that, I promised myself to see as much of it as possible, and not
just from the photo pit, and media tent. I got to the site early, and checked out a few of
the vendors. I even bought a ROTR T-shirt. Reasonably priced, pretty cool looking,
and it wasn't one of those "wash it once, give it to your little brother the next day"
cheapies. Lots of food and cheap beer stands, a US Army stand, and a ton of roving vendors,
like my friend Darryl, of "Rock And Roll Gangstar" clothing, who, every year, hits the road
and goes to all the festivals on the "World's Loudest Month" tour,
(www.worldsloudestmonth.com) which of course included Rock On the Range. He, as well
as my friends from I Love Vagina, F*ck Cancer, and others were doing a brisk business,
selling all kinds of apparel to the attendees. A huge web page was dedicated to the
vendors, and even had band set times and helpful info on it
(www.rockontherange.com/vendorvillage).
I also paid a visit to my friends from Monster Energy drink, the biggest sponsors of
ROTR, and spent some time in their suite, located inside Crew Stadium. It was a
great place to cool off, and enjoy a cold Monster drink during the weekend. While inside, I
was able to catch up with my friends that work for Monster, as well as speak with old
friends DJ Ashba from GUNS N' ROSES, Tim "Ripper" Owens as well as That
Metal Show co-hosts Jim Florentine and Don Jamieson and others.
Always a good place to hang and "shoot the shit", while enjoying the show.
I headed to the Jagermeister stage to catch and act that I had never seen before. This is
something that I love to do at ROTR, and over the years I have had my first taste of
many a band that has gone on to bigger and better things afterward. "Graduating" to the
main stage eventually, is an honor that I have seen bestowed on quite a few acts, but I
love to see them perform on the small stages like this one, as they hone their craft in
front of a curious audience like myself.
Today, the first of which was MONSTER TRUCK. After getting the lowdown on these
guys, from Ontario, Canada from my fellow journalists, I really loved their style of
"Southern Rock Boogie" with a metal flair to it. Yeah, I know, I hate to classify stuff,
but it fits. These guys rock. It felt like I was seeing a band like BLACKFOOT or
POINT BLANK back in the 70's, although much heavier, and I will be seeing them
again, for sure.
SETLIST
Not just a great visual band, but great songs and performance as well. Every band member
uses the stage as their own personal platform, singer Aaron Nordstom and drummer
Brian Medina in particular. Great songs, like "Basement", "Pleasure And
Pain" and the set closing "Stardust" had the early crowd entranced.
They are currently touring with SEVENDUST. Don't miss this band when they are in
your town! Go to www.geminisyndrome for more info.
SETLIST
I then made my way to the Monster main stage for a set from Las Vegas rockers ADELITAS
WAY, who I had seen on a much smaller stage a few months ago in their hometown. Very
aggressive modern sound. Singer Rick DeJesus towers over the other members of the
band, and was all over the stage and beyond. After admonishing the crowd to rush the stage,
and in the same breath tell them to be safe, he kept the security crew busy by jumping into
the audience, and crowd-surfed to the sound board and back. That took a lot of balls, and
I'm sure his were grabbed more than once during that experience by the overly zealous fans.
I stuck around for a few more songs, but, again, I was on the move to cover as much ground
as possible, and the day was really starting to heat up. Here's a YouTube video of them
from ROTR performing "The Collapse":
SETLIST
From there, it was back to the Monster Main stage, for a set from WOLFMOTHER, which
was a refreshing change from the aggressive rock that was to be pounded out all day.
WOLFMOTHER, is an Australian trio that has a cool, bluesy 70's vibe about them. They
also dress like hippies from that era, and use vintage equipment that adds to the whole
experience. Consisting of Singer/ Guitarist Andrew Stockdale, Chris Ross on bass and
keyboards and drummer Vin Steele. Lots of grungy, feedback influenced tunes like the
hit "Woman" was the perfect antidote for the overly hyped up crowd to get
into the music as opposed to the mosh pit. Kudo's to the people that scheduled this band at
this time of the day.
SETLIST
Hailing from Norway, KVELERTAK (Norwegian for "Stranglehold" or "Chokehold" in case
you were wondering) took the stage in an interesting fashion. Singer Erlend Hjelvik
stood motionless, sporting a stuffed owl (yes, a fuckin' owl!) on his head while his band
blasted the crowd with a driving, thud of killer metal. I was instantly impressed, and not
just because of the interesting choice in headwear.
Eventually, the mask came off and the 6 piece band proceeded to kick ass on a solid but all
too brief set. Again, the beauty of a festival like ROTR, that even an old fart like
myself, that has seen them all, can get blown away, by a Norwegian metal band, who's singer
pays tribute to taxidermy. Keep it coming. I applaud you. Here's a peek at what I
experienced:
Go to www.kvelertak for more info.
The next two bands I saw are, coincidentally, touring with KVELERTAK. On the Monster
Main stage it was MASTODON, who put on as solid a set as I have seen from them. They
are like a brutal, heavy machine, opening with "Black Tongue" to a ready and
willing crowd. Bassist/vocalist Troy Sanders is always a bit goofy looking onstage,
but always in control, moving about and pounding his bass, while delivering his growly
vocals. Guitarists Brent Hinds and Bill Kelliher are an outstanding tandem,
and really drive the sound of this Atlanta-based quartet. Again, the swarm of crowd surfers
was massive, and I noticed the trend of people dressing as superheroes and clowns had hit
the "America's Heartland" pit, just like back in Los Angeles.
SETLIST
SETLIST
SETLIST
SETLIST
Just that simple, they LOVE the music. But they indeed typify the attitude on so many of
the people that attend this festival, they are willing to do whatever it takes to
experience the music and acts that play it. I felt very fortunate to be in my position, as
I have been that kid against the gates many times in my life before moving on to reporting
about it. with that I got the proverbial "second wind".
And I needed it. Up next was FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH. As I made my way past their
dressing room, on my way to the photo pit, out popped none other than singer Ivan
Moody, bouncing up and down and getting ready for what is always a great show. I "high
fived" him and told him to have a great set. He thanked me, and said he would. I have seen
them many times and have never seen a bad one. The "Rangers", were ready, I was ready, Ivan
was ready. To the pit I sprinted, and got my camera ready...
Drummer Jeremy Spencer was first onstage, raising his arms to the deafening roar of
the crowd, as the song "They're Coming To Take Me Away (Ha Haa)" , the
novelty song by NAPOLEON XIV blasted over the PA system. Fists and "Devil Horns"
were all you could see for the entire bowl of Crew Stadium. And out came the rest of
FFDP, with a leaping Ivan Moody asking "What the fuck is goin' on Ohio"? as
the band exploded into their traditional opening number "Under And Over
It".
SETLIST
After a long intro, while silhouetted behind a large behind a large, white curtain, it
finally dropped and the crowd roared. KID ROCK was in the house!Covering a with
range of music, and backed by a huge band, complete with background singers, he simply
commands the stage. All eyes are on him, despite all the action behind him. He is today's
rock star. Again, cover a wide variety of music, from the heavy hip-hop of "You Never
Met A Motherfucker Quite Like Me" and "American Bad Ass", to classic
southern rock rehashes like the LYNYRD SKYNYRD/WARREN ZEVON Mash-up "All
Summer Long", and takes on "Cat Scratch Fever" and "La
Grange", to full on country songs like "Born Free" and a bit of
"Picture". He finally closed out his long set with the rap-rock
"Bawitdaba". After all these years, I still don't know what the fuck he's
talking about in that one...
Again, looking around the "Rangers", loved every minute, and again, I will stress, that
this is KID ROCK's, "Meat And Po-Taters" audience. The American mid-West. The
heartland. Do I sound like a commercial for a Chevy truck yet? I give the guy credit for
what he does, and it's very entertaining, but I personally will take a SLAYER show
over that any day. This weekend, I got both, and a lot more.
SETLIST
Thank you first and foremost, AEG Live and Danny Wimmer Presents for putting on, once
again, "America's Premier Rock Festival". Especially Gary Spivak, who has always
been so cool to me. I consider him a true friend, and "Top Ranger For Life". Marcee and
Aaron at MSO PR for getting me set up for credentials, Kristine for all that you do.
Thurman's will always be on me! All at Monster Energy drink, Jagermeiser, and Ernie Ball,
the stages rocked because of you. To all the bands, publicists, fellow media from around
the nation, and especially fellow "Rangers For Life", lets do this again next year! I hope
you enjoyed my review and pictures. Sorry it took so long, but I hate to leave stuff out.
Lastly, to Jim and the security crew at Crew Stadium and all the people of Columbus that
make us feel safe and welcome, I salute you for a job well done. Long live Rock On The
Range. For more info on the festival, visit www.rockontherange.com.
Check out Junkman's MASSIVE Photo Gallery right HERE.
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I am one of the lucky ones, to be sporting a Media, as well as Photo pass, thereby granting
me front row and personal access to the acts that will be performing. It is a privilege to
be in this position and I do not take that for granted, although over the years I have seen
many that do. I also have made many friends in the industry that continue to attend every
year, and it is always a treat to see them and catch up, as we will all be working together
for three days. It has become something that I look forward to, the camaraderie amongst
fellow media from around the country, all dedicated to getting as much out of this festival
as possible. As always, it did not disappoint.
DAY 1
I then headed over to the Jagermeister stage to catch a few songs from BUTCHER
BABIES. All I can really say about them without sounding too snide, is that they are a
lot of fun to watch. Two hot chicks screaming at the top of their lungs to a crowd that
really seemed to enjoy them. Crowd surfers were out in full force, during BB's set,
and, in what would be a preview of things to come all weekend long, I was nailed by a pair
of boots, in the back of my head while attempting to photograph from the pit. No big deal,
it was all in the name of fun, and it's just gonna happen. I have to commend, as I always
do, the great work by the security force, in particular, crew chief Jim, who are all about
safety first, and prove it every year. 'We want to make sure that everyone is safe and
having a good time", he told me, smiling, as he always does. Jim and his crew are true
pro's, and I cannot say enough about how truly wonderful, and friendly they are, while
going about their business. I sure wish that other in-house security at shows I attend
would follow their lead. Back to the main stage I trudged, in time to catch BLACK LABEL
SOCIETY. Opening with "My Dying Time" from their latest release
Catacombs Of The Black Vatican, "Father" Zakk Wylde and company simply
destroyed their audience in the brief but satisfying set. BLS favorites like
"Godspeed Hellbound" and "Suicide Messiah" not only spotlighted
Zakk's extreme fretboard work, and howling vocals, but also let new guitarist Dario
Lorina have a few shining moments as well. By the time they finished with
"Stillborn", Zakk, as well as most of the crowd, was a huge sweaty, stinky,
mess. As a proud veteran of many BLS shows, I can truthfully say that it was
business as usual.
Anselmo continued to rant, and rave, and strut and pound, constantly stalking his audience.
"If you had your testicles on the table, and a hammer in your hand, what would be the last
song you would like to hear"? he asked. The audience cheered. And with that, out from the
wings came his former bassist in PANTERA, current KILL DEVIL HILL bassist
Rex Brown, bass in hand. They embraced mid-stage, much to the delight of the
moshing, rabid crowd, as well as Dimebag Darrell's widow Rita Haney, who was
absolutely beaming, from the side of the stage. They then slayed the crowd with a monster
verson of "Stone The Crow", which even though it was outside, blew the roof
off the place. I honestly think that they drowned out STAIND, who was performing on
the main stage at the time.
DAY 2
This is a band, that I have seen before, and will see again.
They did not disappoint. Blasting out a killer 13 song set, it was everything you would
want out of a SLAYER show. A great stage set, Kerry King's buzz-saw guitar
playing, bassist/singer Tom Araya's screeching vocals, Paul Bostaph's
impossible pace behind the drums and lead guitarist Gary Holt's thunderous lead
guitar. By the time they played "Seasons In The Abyss" about midway through
their set, I could literally feel the stadium shaking, and found a piece of concrete and
steel that had apparently broken off. This was SLAYER's first time at ROTR
and no doubt the heaviest set of the entire weekend. Capping off their set with
"Raining Blood" and "Angel Of Death", it looked like a war zone
in the midst of Crew Stadium, "Rangers" bloodied and battered, helping their friends up,
loving every minute and applauding their heroes, who smiled at the carnage they had
created. Quite a scene indeed.
DAY 3
This band is just solid all the way through. Great performance. Singer Aaron
Buchanan has a very good range and is obviously influenced by the late Freddie
Mercury of QUEEN. The way he conducts himself onstage while hitting quite a
range of notes, brings that to mind. He goes all out, even jumping in to the crowd, and
performing a hand-stand on a fan's shoulders! Guitarist Sid Glover just exudes
coolness, kind of in a Joe Perry way. He also sings as well, and HB songs
like "Can't Let Go" and "Fire, Fire" were well received. The
comparisons to some of my favorite bands are obvious, they really show their influences,
and there is nothing wrong with that. If you like good old fashioned British rock, this is
a great band for you to check out. Get a copy of their latest CD Filthy
Empire and visit www.heavensbasement.com. 100% "Junkman Approved".
I headed back to the always alive Media tent with a dilemma; which stage to head to, as
there were two bands performing simultaneously that I had never seen. KVELERTAK on
the Jagermeister stage, and MISS MAY I on the Ernie Ball Stage. When in doubt,
consult a pro. I asked the advice of my friends and fellow memeber of the KNAC.COM
family, Full Metal Jackie, who I had just happened to run into. She said,
"Definately, KVELERTAK", and I cannot thank her enough for the suggestion. It turned
out to be a killer set, and I am now a fan. Thanks Jackie, "horns up"...
Next up on the Monster stage was ALTER BRIDGE, the band fronted by singer Miles
Kennedy and featuring three members of CREED, most notably guitarist Mark
Tremonti.Kennedy had many fans attending. They screamed whenever he opened his mouth.
And, that is indeed what he did, opening with the song "Addicted To Pain",
from last years Fortress release. Clearly enjoying himself and, surprisingly,
not a bad guitar player, as he paced the stage and went toe to toe with Tremonti, who
blasted out lick after lick on his beautiful PRS guitars. Clearly touring with SLASH
has taught Myles something about guitar playing. Although not as familiar with their
material as with other bands on the bill, I could see what people like about them. I saw a
ton of ALTER BRIDGE merch being worn around the field area that day, much more than
any other band appearing on Sunday, it seemed to me. Closing out the set with
"Isolation", I sprinted to the Ernie Ball Stage for the last time.
And with that, FFDP blasted out a signature 11 song set. Again, one of the most
satisfying sets for any fan of this band. So much energy. They have it all. Great songs to
sing and scream along to, like the aforementioned song, as well as my personal fave,
"Lift Me Up" which features the great guitar work of Jason Hook and
Zolton Bathory, with Hook's guitar sporting glowing green graphics, quite the
visual. They brought it down about halfway through the set with an acoustic rendition of
"Remember Everything" before recharging again and bringing the crowd to a
fever pitch. A couple of great cover songs were included, like their terrific take on the
BAD COMPANY classic "Bad Company" and LL COOL J's "Mama
Said Knock You Out" that spotlighted singer Moody's onstage antics and vocal range.
He's a terrific front man, always playful, reminding me of "Popeye" at times. But he really
is at one with his crowd, looking them directly in the eye, and throwing his sweatbands and
lots of bottles of water to them. All the while keeping the security guards busy, handling
the hordes of crowd surfers that stormed the barriers throughout the set. Just a great
show, I always enjoy seeing them, and so do the rest of their fans.
So, after all that, I needed a cold one. I locked down my camera equipment and headed for
the "Artists Lounge" backstage, that had a full bar set up. I gathered with my posse of
friends and we chugged a few beers and reflected on all the great happenings that the
weekend had brought. I ran into Ivan Moody from FFDP, and again, commended
him on his show. As he thanked me, I told him "YOU sir, are a true rock star". He smiled,
and said that KID ROCK was the true rock star, but I think there were many that
could be labeled with that phrase.