Thurs August 10th - Ripping their way across the US at 1000HP, hard rock masters Godsmack would bring their "The Best of Times Tour" to The Credit Union One Amphitheatre on Thursday night, supported by none other than fellow rock legends Staind and former DJ for the iconic Beastie Boys, Mix Master Mike. The amphitheatre is conveniently located in the Chicago suburb of Tinley Park, and is easily accessible from both the city and the surrounding suburbs. It's close to major highways and public transportation, making it easy for concertgoers to get there. The amphitheatre is a large and impressive outdoor music facility that hosts a variety of concerts and live shows. The amphitheatre is one of the largest outdoor music venues in the Chicago area, with a seating capacity of roughly 28,000. It consists of reserved seating sections near the stage and an expansive general admission lawn area at the back. The main stage of the Credit Union One Amphitheatre is outfitted with cutting-edge audio and lighting technologies, guaranteeing that all performances are of the highest caliber. The venue features a scenic and natural backdrop behind the vast lawn section, creating a welcoming ambiance for concertgoers. The amphitheatre, being an outdoor venue, offers a unique musical experience where attendees may enjoy live music beneath the open sky. This trait gives a unique flavor to the performances, especially on beautiful summer nights like tonight. The Credit Union One Amphitheatre provides a range of amenities to enhance the entire performance experience, including extensive parking, food and beverage concessions with a variety of dining options, washroom facilities, and accessibility elements for fans with disabilities. The facility organizes a variety of concerts and events that feature top-tier performers and bands from a variety of music genres. The amphitheatre's diversified schedule of performers caters to a wide range of audiences, from rock and pop to country, hip-hop, and beyond. The World Music Theatre was the name of the venue when it first opened its doors in 1990. Since then, the venue has undergone numerous name changes over the years. From 2001 until 2006, it was known as the Tweeter Center, and it was later rebranded as the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre until 2015, when it became the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre, before now becoming the Credit Union One Amphitheatre following a recent sponsorship agreement earlier this year shortly after this show was announced. Overall, the Credit Union One Amphitheatre is a well-known and well-liked music venue in Chicagoland, attracting various touring acts and offering concertgoers exceptional experiences in a spacious and inviting outdoor setting.
Courtesy of Credit Union One Amphitheatre
Mix Master Mike, actual name Michael Schwartz, is an American DJ and turntablist best known for his work with the iconic hip-hop duo The Beastie Boys. He was born in San Francisco, California, on April 4, 1970. Growing up in the Bay Area, Mix Master Mike developed a childhood passion for music. In his teenage years, he began experimenting with turntables and DJing, honing his talents and pushing the boundaries of what could be accomplished with vinyl records and turntables. Mix Master Mike's extraordinary talent drew the notice of the Beastie Boys, one of the most influential and innovative hip-hop groups of all time, in 1994. He was invited to become their official DJ, and his presence added a new level of technical proficiency and innovation to their performances and records. His turntablism abilities and inventive use of scratching, beat juggling, and sampling shaped the Beastie Boys' sound and helped to their sustained popularity in the late 1990's and early 2000's. Mix Master Mike contributions can be found on albums such as "Hello Nasty," "To the 5 Boroughs," and "Hot Sauce Committee Part Two." Mix Master Mike has had a successful solo career in addition to his work with the Beastie Boys. He released a number of solo albums and mixtapes that showcased his abilities as a solo musician and turntablist. Mix Master Mike has garnered multiple awards for his proficient DJ skills over the years. In 1992 and 1993, he won the DMC World DJ Championship, establishing himself as one of the world's best turntablists. The impact of Mix Master Mike on DJ culture and turntablism cannot be emphasized enough. He is still a powerful force in the music industry, having inspired innumerable DJs and musicians with his breakthrough techniques and inventive approach to DJing. Mix Master Mike contributed greatly to The Beastie Boys' career as a member, leaving an unforgettable stamp on hip-hop history. Mix Master Mike continues to perform and respect Beastie Boys members Adam "MCA" Yauch and John "Ad-Rock" Horovitz's legacy through his music and performances even after their deaths.
*No Photography Allowed
Staind is an American rock band formed in Springfield, Massachusetts, in 1995. The band's core members are lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Aaron Lewis, lead guitarist Mike Mushok, and bassist Johnny April. The group's early lineup also included drummer Jon Wysocki, who left the band in 2011, and was later replaced by drummer Sal Giancarelli. The band's music is characterized by a mix of alternative metal, post-grunge, and nu-metal influences, and they gained prominence during the late 1990's and early 2000's. Staind was initially formed by Aaron Lewis and Mike Mushok while attending high school in Springfield. They performed under various names before settling on "Staind" in 1995. The name "Stain" was chosen to represent the emotional weight and personal struggles that their music frequently conveyed. They added the D after discovering that another group (Now known as Kilgore Smudge and Lit) already had it. Staind made their breakthrough in 1999 with the release of their second studio album, "Dysfunction." The album's singles, "Just Go" and "Mudshovel," received significant airplay on rock radio, and the band began to gain a devoted following. Staind's third studio album, "Break the Cycle," was released in 2001 and catapulted them to mainstream success. Hit singles from the album included "It's Been Awhile," "Outside" (a collaboration with Fred Durst of Limp Bizkit), and "Fade," which received extensive radio play and cemented the band's place in the alternative rock scene. Staind's successful career continued with subsequent albums such as "14 Shades of Grey" (2003), "Chapter V" (2005), and "The Illusion of Progress" (2008). These albums yielded hit singles such as "So Far Away," "Right Here," and "Believe," further cementing the band's place in the rock music landscape. Staind's sound evolved over time, incorporating more diverse elements and introspective lyrics. Their music tackled personal and emotional issues, frequently delving into the darker side of life and relationships. Staind went on hiatus after touring in support of their self-titled album in 2011, and band members pursued various side projects. Now in 2023 the band has released "The Lowest In Me" which is the first single off their upcoming album "Confessions of the Fallen" due out Sept 22nd. Staind is regarded as one of the prominent bands in the rock, post-grunge and nu-metal genres, leaving a lasting impact on rock music. Their emotionally charged performances and raw lyrics resonated with fans, making them a significant presence in the early 2000's rock scene. Throughout their career, Staind has sold millions of albums worldwide and became one of the defining bands of their era. Their music continues to be celebrated by fans and stands as a testament to the enduring power of honest and emotionally evocative rock music.
The audience seemed mesmerized by Staind's raw talent and emotional depth during their performance, which was a powerful and emotive journey through their iconic discography. The band took the stage with vigor and passion, immediately captivating the audience with their opening song, "Lowest in Me," a powerful track from their upcoming album "Confessions of the Fallen," laying the groundwork for an unforgettable night of music. The crowd's excitement grew as they seamlessly transitioned into "Not Again," and the band's tight musicianship and Aaron Lewis' haunting vocals were on full display. With the infectious energy of "Just Go," the seamless flow continued, and the audience couldn't help but sing along to every word. Staind demonstrated their ability to balance hard-hitting tracks with poignant ballads with heartfelt performances of "Home" and "Eyes Wide Open," leaving the audience deeply moved. "Fade" and "Something to Remind You" showcased Aaron Lewis' emotional prowess, connecting with the audience on a deep level. Classics like "Epiphany," "Right Here," and "Outside" drew thunderous applause from the audience, who reveled in nostalgia while savoring the band's timeless hits. A performance of "Wannabe" added a delightful twist to the set, demonstrating Staind's versatility and openness to new ideas. The songs "So Far Away" and "For You" added to the emotional journey, with the audience singing along with heart and soul. The hauntingly beautiful "It's Been Awhile" reverberated throughout the venue, inspiring a moment of reflection and unity among the audience. As the night came to a close, the band performed their signature hit "Mudshovel," leaving the audience in a state of euphoria. The powerful performance brought the set to a climactic close, leaving the audience wanting more. Staind's performance tonight exemplified their enduring influence on the rock music scene, with each song delivered with passion and authenticity. Aaron Lewis' distinct vocals, Mike Mushok's masterful guitar work, and the band's tight-knit chemistry combined to create an unforgettable live experience that fans will remember for years to come.
Godsmack is an American rock band founded in 1995 in Lawrence, Massachusetts. The band's name was inspired by a song titled "God Smack" by the influential rock band Alice in Chains, depending on who you ask. In a 1999 interview, Erna stated, "I was making fun of someone who had a cold sore on his lip, and the next day I had one myself, and somebody said, 'It's a godsmack.' The moniker stuck." The band originally called themselves "The Scam" because they used to "scam their way into gigs," including hanging out around local venues and conniving the venue management into believing they were on the lineup. Godsmack rose to prominence in the late 1990's and early 2000's, gaining a massive fanbase with their heavy and aggressive sound, which was influenced by alternative metal and hard rock. Godsmack was formed by Sully Erna, a talented vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter that's comes from a lineage of musicians, including a father who is a renowned trumpet player that also conducts the Northeast Italian Band, and a great uncle who was a prominent composer back in Sicily. Sully had previously been a member of several local bands prior to forming Godsmack, including Stripmine in 1993 in which creative difference caused him to part ways with the band. The original lineup of the band consisted of guitarist Lee Richards, bassist Robbie Merrill, and drummer Tommy Stewart. Lee Richards left the band in 1996, and was replaced by Tony Rombola. Shannon Larkin, who took over behind the drumkit in 2002, was the most recent addition. The band started out in the New England music scene, quickly gaining attention for their powerful live performances and distinct sound. In 1998, Godsmack released their self-titled debut album, "Godsmack." "Whatever," the album's lead single, became a breakout hit, receiving widespread airplay and chart success. Godsmack quickly gained a following thanks to the album's heavy riffs, aggressive vocals, and catchy melodies. "Awake," Godsmack's second studio album, was released in 2000. It included hits like "Awake," "Greed," and "Bad Magick," which helped them cement their place in the rock music scene. The album received both critical and commercial acclaim, catapulting the band to new heights. Godsmack continued to release successful albums over the years, including "Faceless" (2003), "IV" (2006), and "The Oracle" (2010). Their music evolved, incorporating more diverse elements while keeping their trademark hard-hitting sound. Sully Erna's powerful vocals and Tony Rombola's dynamic guitar work remained essential components of the band's identity. Godsmack became known for their high-energy live shows, which showcased their musicianship and captivating stage presence. They toured extensively, headlining major rock festivals and sharing stages with other well-known prominent acts. Following the release of their 2010 album "The Oracle," Godsmack took a brief hiatus to focus on personal projects. They returned in 2014 with the release of their sixth studio album, "1000HP," which included hits such as "1000HP" and "Something Different." The influence of Godsmack on the rock music landscape cannot be overstated. They are regarded as one of the pivotal bands of the alternative metal movement of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Godsmack is still a major force in the rock genre, with numerous hit songs and multi-platinum albums. In 2023, the band returns with their latest and most likely final album, according to Sully, "Lighting Up The Sky." With songs like "Soul on Fire" dominating rock stations around the globe, it's clear that their music continues to resonate with fans around the world, and the band's dedication to their craft solidifies their status as one of the most influential rock bands of their era.
Godsmack took the stage with an electrifying energy that had the audience on their feet from the start. The band would start hidden behind a pair of curtains that stretched across the entire width of the stage, while a pre-recorded projected video of opening act Mix Master Mike pumped up the crowd before the set on a plain white curtain. The white curtain would drop at the end of the video, revealing a black curtain donning a massive white Godsmack logo front and center. Once all the house lights went dark, the crowd was met with an explosive pop from the stage as a blast of fireworks atop the stage went off as the second curtain fell, kicking off an unforgettable performance. Opening with the 2019 NFL adopted anthem "When Legends Rise," they set the tone for a night filled with their heavy riffs and Sully's iconic intense vocals, as he sang in unison with a chorus of "Whoaaa's" from the crowd helping him out with the chorus. The excitement in the audience was palpable as the band smoothly transitioned into the fast paced "1000HP," keeping the energy levels high and setting the stage ablaze with an assortment of pyro effects, firing up the crowd even further. "Cryin' Like a Bitch!!" had the audience singing along enthusiastically, demonstrating the band's ability to connect with their fans. The momentum continued with the first live taste of new material, "You and I," which added a more melodic touch to the setlist while still maintaining Godsmack's hard-rock edge. The band would then proceed to perform "Something Different," demonstrating their versatility and willingness to explore new musical avenues. The crowd's enthusiasm grew with each song, as "What About Me" and "Awake" kept the energy roaring. The percussion-heavy "Batalla De Los Tambores" was an enthralling interlude that demonstrated the band's rhythmic prowess. Their rendition of Joe Walsh's "Rocky Mountain Way" was a crowd-pleaser, adding a classic rock twist to the evening. As the set progressed, the band delivered fan favorites such as "Voodoo" and "Whatever," igniting the mosh pits and prompting sing-alongs throughout the venue. The emotionally charged "Under Your Scars" opened the encore portion of the set, providing a moment of reflection amidst the intensity of the performance, which featured Sully illuminated behind his piano in the center of the stage, serenading the audience at the top of his lungs as they joined in with him. The night ended on a high note, with "Bulletproof" and everyone's favorite Scorpion King soundtrack smash hit "I Stand Alone" leaving the audience buzzing with adrenaline. Godsmack's performance tonight demonstrated their enduring power as a rock powerhouse, effortlessly blending the hits in with their latest material that kept the audience engaged and enjoying the performance from beginning to end.
While this tour is nearing the end of its run, fans in the United States and Canada will have another opportunity to see Godsmack on the second leg of the tour, which begins September 1st and runs through the end of October. They will also be performing at the Louder Than Life Festival in Kentucky and the Aftershock Festival in California along the way. While Staind will not be joining them on this second leg of the tour, Godsmack will be in good hands with an opening support cast of I Prevail, Atreyu, and Flat Black. Fans can view those dates and purchase tickets before they sell out. Staind have a few various shows after the tour which can be found here. The band is in the process of releasing singles from their upcoming album "Confessions of the Fallen," which is set to be released on September 22nd. I would expect some sort of tour cycle announcement shortly after the release of the new album, so fans should keep an eye on their social media pages for the latest updates! With performances like tonight, both of these legendary bands continue to show why they've been at the top of the rock world for so long and show no signs of slowing down. I'd like to give a massive thank you to LiveNation as well as BMG for allowing me to come out and capture these pair of iconic bands.
Review & Photography By: Nick Buzinski
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