Sun July 21st - Detroit Michigan natives I Prevail headlined the The Credit Union One Amphitheatre on Sunday night, supported by none other than co-headline rock legends Halestorm, with rock/rap pioneers Hollywood Undead and metalcore masters Fit For A King tasked with kicking things off. The full 24 date four band lineup run across the US kicked off on July 9th in Raleigh, NC and will finish up August 17th in Las Vegas, NV. The Credit Union One 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 amphitheatres 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
History
Fit For A King is an American metalcore band that formed in Tyler, Texas, in 2007. The band, known for its intense blend of metalcore and melodic elements, has established itself as a dominant force in the modern metal scene. Lead guitarist Jared McFerron and drummer Jared Easterling formed Fit For A King in Tyler, Texas. They were quickly joined by vocalist Alex Danforth and bassist Aaron Decur. The band spent its early years honing their sound and performing locally, gradually gaining a following in the Texas metalcore scene. "Descendants," Fit For A King's debut album, was released independently in 2011. This album established their signature sound, combining aggressive breakdowns, soaring melodies, and introspective lyrics. At the time, the lineup included Ryan Kirby on vocals, Bobby Lynge and Justin Hamra on guitars, Aaron Decur on bass, and Jared Easterling on drums. The band's breakthrough came when they signed with Solid State Records, a label known for releasing prominent metal and hardcore bands. Fit For A King released their second album, "Creation/Destruction," in 2013. This album received positive reviews and marked their debut on the Billboard 200 charts, demonstrating their growing popularity. Following the success of "Creation/Destruction," Fit For A King continued to tour extensively, cementing their place in the metalcore scene. Bassist/backing vocalist Ryan "Tuck" O'Leary would join the band in 2014 adding even more firepower to the band. They released several more albums through Solid State Records, including "Slave to Nothing" (2014), "Deathgrip" (2016), and "Dark Skies" (2018). 2018 saw the addition of guitarist/backing vocalist Daniel Gailey to the band as lead guitarist and co-founder Bobby Lynge would take a step back from touring and remain with the band strictly in the studio/songwriting department. These albums reinforced their fan base and demonstrated their growth as songwriters and musicians. Fit For A King is known for their aggressive yet melodic take on metalcore. Their music is typically characterized by heavy guitar riffs, breakdowns, and dynamic vocals that range from screaming to clean singing. Lyrically, their songs frequently explore themes of faith, personal struggles, and resilience, which appeal to a wide range of listeners due to their musical intensity and emotional depth. Fit For A King has toured extensively in recent years, playing major festivals and headlining tours all over the world. They released their sixth studio album, "The Path," in 2020, and it received critical acclaim for its powerful sound and poignant lyrics. The album solidified their position as one of the top bands in modern metalcore. The band has since dropped their seventh studio album "The Hell We Create" (2022), reaching as high as number 3 on the U.S. Christian chart & number 12 on the U.S. Hard Rock chart. Throughout their career, Fit For A King has demonstrated a commitment to evolving their sound while remaining true to their heavy music roots. They continue to remain a respected and influential presence in the metalcore genre, continually expanding boundaries and connecting with audiences through their passionate performances and impactful music.
Performance
The 30-minute set began with "Keeping Secrets," which immediately captured the audience with its intense opening riff and powerful vocals. The band's energetic and commanding stage presence, combined with Ryan Kirby's vocal delivery, set the tone for the band's usual high-energy performance. The crowd responded enthusiastically, and some nice mosh pits developing early on. The song's dynamic shifts between heavy breakdowns and melodic passages demonstrated the band's musical versatility, while the lighting effects added to the song's intense emotion. "Breaking the Mirror" maintained the momentum with its anthemic chorus and driving rhythm. The band's tight musicianship was evident as they smoothly transitioned between the song's heavy and melodic sections. Kirby's vocal range, which ranged from harsh growls to clean singing, entranced the crowd. Fans sang along to the catchy chorus, crowd surfed, and moshed. The stage visuals, which included synchronized lighting, increased the overall impact of the performance. "Falling Through the Sky" added a slightly more melodic and introspective tone to the set. The song's soaring chorus and emotionally charged lyrics struck an intimate connection with the audience. The band delivered a tight and polished performance, with each member adding to the song's atmospheric buildup. The lighting changed to softer colors, resulting in a more immersive and reflective atmosphere. Kirby's moving performance and the band's cohesive playing made this a standout moment in the set. "End (The Other Side)" demonstrated the band's ability to blend heaviness and melody. Highlights of the song included intricate guitar work from Daniel Gailey and dynamic drumming from Trey Celaya, demonstrating the band members' technical proficiency. Kirby's vocal performance was especially strong, conveying a sense of desire and emotion that jumped out at the
audience. The crowd was completely engaged, headbanging and singing along with the powerful chorus. The stage production, which included smoke effects and dynamic lighting, lent depth to the performance. "Deathgrip" increased the intensity with its relentless riffs and powerful breakdowns. The song's heavy instrumentation and aggressive vocals created an electric atmosphere. The crowd reacted enthusiastically, with mosh pits intensifying and fans expressing their gratitude through energetic participation. The band's stage presence was commanding, with Kirby leading the charge and Tuck and Daniel jumping high off the stage risers at key moments throughout the set, adding to the high-energy performance. "Reaper" added to the onslaught of heaviness with its brutal riffs and intense vocal delivery. The band's performance was highlighted by precise coordination and powerful execution. Kirby's growls and screams were particularly successful in adding to the song's aggressive tone. The audience reacted overwhelmingly positively, with fans moshing and crowd surfing. The band gave the crowd a taste of some new unreleased material by unleashing "Technium," which demonstrated the band's ability to continue to create face melters with the best of them. The song's aggressive guitar work and intense vocals were standouts, showcasing the band's technical ability. Kirby's vocal performance was strong, as expected for a Fit For A King song, with Daniel providing killer backing vocals and adding some stellar screams. A signature breakdown to close the song out is something any fan of the band will be pleased to hear once this track is released. The set concluded with the song "When Everything Means Nothing," which exemplifies the band's ability to combine heavy music with emotional depth. The song's anthemic chorus and powerful breakdowns provided an appropriate conclusion to the performance. Kirby's vocal delivery was heartfelt, connecting with the audience and instilling a sense of unity. The audience reacted passionately singing along with dedication and showing their appreciation with loud cheers and applause.
History
Hollywood Undead is an American rap rock band that formed in Los Angeles, California, in 2005. The band's distinct blend of rap, rock, and electronic music, combined with their distinctive masks and energetic live performances, has earned them a devoted following worldwide. Jorel "J-Dog" Decker & Aron "Deuce" Erlichman founded Hollywood Undead. George "Johnny 3 Tears" Ragan, Jordon "Charlie Scene" Terrell, Dylan "Funny Man" Alvarez, Matthew "Da Kurlzz" Busek, and Jeffrey "Shady Jeff" Phillips would soon after join them. J-Dog has been on record in the past stating "Whoever was in the room at the time and played an instrument was in the band." The original lineup experimented with various musical styles, fusing rap verses with rock and electronic beats and incorporating themes ranging from partying to social commentary. The band rose to prominence in the mid-2000s thanks to self-released music and a strong MySpace presence, which helped them build a substantial online following. Hollywood Undead's debut studio album, "Swan Songs," was released in 2008 via A&M/Octone Records. The album included hit singles such as "Undead" and "Everywhere I Go," which propelled the band to mainstream success. "Swan Songs" featured raucous party anthems mixed with darker lyrical themes, all delivered with a rebellious edge. Following the success of "Swan Songs," Hollywood Undead went through several lineup and stylistic changes. Deuce (Aron Erlichman), a founding member, left the band in 2009 due to creative differences. After his departure Danny Murillo, a longtime friend and collaborator, officially joined as vocalist and rhythm guitarist in 2009. Over the course of subsequent albums, the band expanded their sound by incorporating more diverse musical elements and delving deeper into lyrical themes. In 2011, Hollywood Undead released their second studio album, "American Tragedy," which debuted at number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart. This album marked a shift in their sound, incorporating heavier rock elements, electronic influences, and introspective lyrics. Subsequent albums, including "Notes from the Underground" (2013), "Day of the Dead" (2015), and "Five" (2017), broadened their musical palette and cemented their place in the rock and alternative music scenes. Today the lineup consists of: Jorel "J-Dog" Decker, Dylan "Funny Man" Alvarez, George "Johnny 3 Tears" Ragan, Jordon "Charlie Scene" Terrell & Danny Murillo. Hollywood Undead's lyrics frequently address themes of personal struggle, societal issues, and the darker aspects of fame and identity. Their music combines aggressive rap verses with catchy choruses, all supported by powerful instrumentation and electronic beats. This diverse approach has enabled them to reach a large audience while maintaining a distinct sound that distinguishes them from traditional rap or rock acts. Hollywood Undead continues to tour and release new music. They are still active in the rock and alternative music scenes, known for their energetic live performances and ongoing musical advancement. The band has most recently released their latest offering "Hotel Kalifornia" in 2022. The band's ability to cross genres and explore new sonic territories has kept them relevant and engaging to their fan base, ensuring their continued influence in the music industry. Hollywood Undead's rise from underground mixtapes to mainstream success exemplifies their perseverance, creativity, and ability to connect with fans through their unique blend of rap and rock music. Their dedication to pushing musical boundaries while remaining true to their roots has earned them a permanent place in the music industry.
Performance
The band took to the stage maskless and energetically, opening with "California Dreaming," which immediately electrified the crowd with its hard-hitting riffs and powerful lyrics. The band's stage presence was commanding from the start, with Danny's powerful vocals and J-Dog's aggressive rapping setting the tone. The lighting was vibrant, with a mix of blue, green, yellow and white hues creating an atmospheric backdrop to accompany the light-up LED palm trees and graffiti-covered barrels, as a slew of fog swirled around the stage. The audience reacted fervently, with heads banging and fists pumping in the air. "CHAOS" maintained the high-energy vibe with its fast beats and intense delivery. The band members moved swiftly around the stage, interacting with the audience and one another. The interplay between the vocalists was tight, demonstrating their chemistry and coordination. The stage visuals featured flashing lights, adding to the song's chaotic and intense feel. The audience was completely engaged, jumping and shouting along to the aggressive anthem. "Riot" kept the adrenaline flowing with its anthemic chorus and relentless rhythm. The band delivered a tight performance, with each member adding to the song's powerful impact. Charlie Scene's charismatic stage presence, which included sipping on a bottle of Corona, and vocal delivery were highlights, sending the audience into a frenzy. The lighting was intense, with strobe effects that matched the song's fast pace. The crowd's energy was palpable, with mosh pits forming and fans passionately singing along. A fan favorite "Everywhere I Go" added a more playful and party-like vibe to the set. The band's fun-loving attitude was contagious, with humorous lyrics and an upbeat tempo that made the audience dance and laugh. Johnny 3 Tears and Charlie Scene's back-and-forth banter contributed to the song's playful vibe. The audience was completely engaged, dancing and singing along to the upbeat and irreverent song. "Renegade" reignited the intensity with hard-hitting beats and aggressive vocals. The band's performance was characterized by a strong stage presence and tight musicianship. Danny's powerful vocal performance was a standout, capturing the song's rebellious spirit. The lighting and visual effects enhanced the song's dramatic impact, resulting in an immersive experience. The crowd erupted, headbanging and moshing enthusiastically. Hollywood Undead surprised the audience by performing a cover of Journey's "Don't Stop Believing." The band's unique take on the classic hit evoked a sense of nostalgia and novelty. Danny delivered an impressive vocal performance, capturing the song's iconic melody while adding his own flair. The audience enthusiastically sang along, creating a sense of unity and shared enjoyment. "Comin' in Hot" reignited the party mood with its upbeat beats and playful lyrics. The band's upbeat performance had the audience dancing and singing along. Charlie Scene continued his charismatic delivery and amusing stage antics, engaging the audience and maintaining the high energy. The stage visuals were vibrant and dynamic, reflecting the song's upbeat tempo. The enthusiastic response from the audience demonstrated their continued appreciation for the bands music. The medley of "Another Way Out" and Rammstein's "Du hast" demonstrated the band's versatility and ability to seamlessly combine different styles. The performance was fierce and dynamic, and the transition between the two songs was flawless. The band's stage presence was commanding, and each member contributed to the strong performance. "Ruin My Life" added a more introspective and emotional tone to the set. The band's performance was heartfelt, with Johnny 3 Tears' emotional delivery hitting home with the audience. The song's melodic elements and powerful lyrics created a moving atmosphere. The lighting was softer, emphasizing the song's reflective mood. The audience reacted with heartfelt applause and cheers, expressing their gratitude for the emotionally charged performance. "Hear Me Now" continued the emotional journey with powerful lyrics and melodic hooks. The band delivered a tight and polished performance, with Danny's vocals and J-Dog's rapping providing a compelling contrast. The audience enthusiastically sang along, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience. The band again surprised the audience with a rendition of Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues." Hollywood Undead's unique take on the classic song incorporated rock and rap elements, making it their own. Charlie Scene's charismatic delivery, combined with the band's creativity, made this cover stand out. The audience's enthusiastic response demonstrated their appreciation for the band's creativity and versatility. "Bullet" featured a mix of upbeat melody and dark lyrics, demonstrating the band's ability to tackle serious themes in a catchy way. The performance was energetic and engaging, with Johnny 3 Tears' emotional delivery striking an emotional connection with the audience. The audience responded enthusiastically, singing along to the poignant yet catchy song. The concert ended with the fan favorite "Undead," which brought the energy to a climax. The band delivered an intense and powerful performance, with each member giving their all. The lighting and stage effects were dramatic, providing a visually and sonically immersive experience. The reaction from the audience was electric, with fans moshing, crowd surfing, and enthusiastically singing along one last time. The band's tight performance and commanding charisma onstage made this an appropriate conclusion to a memorable performance.
History
Halestorm is an American rock band known for its powerful vocals, energetic performances, and dynamic mix of hard rock and alternative metal. Halestorm, founded in 1997 in Red Lion, Pennsylvania, has become renowned for their distinct sound and charismatic stage presence. When they were teenagers, siblings Lzzy Hale (vocals, guitar, keyboards) and Arejay Hale (drums) founded Halestorm. After a few lineup changes over the years they would eventually be joined by current bandmates Josh Smith (bass) and Joe Hottinger (guitar), who also happens to be Lzzy's significant other. The band honed their skills by playing in local venues while establishing a following in Pennsylvania's rock scene. In the early 2000s, Halestorm self-released their debut EPs and albums, including "Don't Mess with the Time Man" (1999) and "Breaking the Silence" (2001). These early releases demonstrated their raw talent and paved the way for their future success. During this time, Halestorm honed their sound, fusing hard rock with elements of alternative metal and highlighting Lzzy Hale's robust vocals and songwriting abilities. Halestorm got their big break when they signed with Atlantic Records in 2005. This was a significant turning point for the band, as they began to reach a larger audience and hone their sound in collaboration with industry experts. Their self-titled debut album, "Halestorm," came out in 2009. Hit singles like "I Get Off" and "It's Not You," which garnered notice due to their catchy hooks and Lzzy Hale's captivating vocal performance, were included on the album. Both fans and critics gave "Halestorm" favorable reviews, which solidified the band's status as a rising star in the rock music industry. They were able to establish a devoted following and land spots on significant tours and festivals thanks to their upbeat live performances and catchy rock tunes. Halestorm kept refining their sound after their debut with albums like "Into the Wild Life" (2015) and "The Strange Case Of..." (2012). Their ability to experiment with various musical genres while keeping their hard-hitting rock core was demonstrated on these albums. The band won their first Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance in 2013 with "The Strange Case Of...", which included hits like "Love Bites (So Do I)". Themes of empowerment, relationships, and personal development are frequently explored in Halestorm's songwriting. Listeners who identify with the band's message of resiliency and self-expression find resonance in Lzzy Hale's lyrics because of their openness and vulnerability. In terms of music, Arejay Hale's thunderous drumming, combined with heavy riffs and catchy hooks, give Halestorm a sound that is both melodic and hard-hitting. Halestorm continues to remain a prominent and influential figure in the rock music industry. They remain busy with a lot of touring and putting out new music, such as "Vicious" (2018), and their most recent album "Back From The Dead" (2022), which enhanced their already established reputation for putting out exciting rock hits. Halestorm's enduring popularity and relevance in modern rock music are guaranteed by their ability to connect with audiences through their captivating performances and relatable lyrics. The transformation of Halestorm from a small-town band to Grammy-winning rock stars is a testament to their talent, commitment, and passion. They have a devoted following and an established position in the rock music industry thanks to their ability to develop musically while adhering to their own distinctive concepts.
Performance
With the fog machines pumping alongside the bright white lights dancing across the stage flanked by a giant illuminating red Halestorm logo atop the backdrop of the stage, the band would take the stage, with Lzzy serenading the audience with the chorus of "Raise Your Horns" with her own horns raised high in the air as the band kicked into "I Miss the Misery," immediately setting a high-energy tone. Lzzy Hale's commanding stage presence and robust vocals captivated the audience from the start. The band's tight instrumentation, particularly Joe Hottinger's guitar riffs and Arejay Hale's drumming, fueled the song's intensity. The red & white spotlights were bright and vivid, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The audience reacted passionately, singing along and headbanging to the anthemic chorus. "Love Bites (So Do I)" would rev up the energy with its fast-paced rhythm and aggressive lyrics. Lzzy's vocal range and stage presence were particularly impressive, delivering the song with her signature raw power and charisma. The band's performance was tight and synchronized, demonstrating their chemistry and coordination. The lighting and stage effects, such as colorful lights and dynamic strobes, boosted the song's impact. The audience was completely engaged, with fans shouting along to the rebellious anthem. At the end of the song, Lzzy would shed her jacket, revealing her studded top, and take moment to welcome the audience to the performance. She would express to the audience how amazing it was that everyone showed up to attend and how there was so much going on in the world that had nothing to do with tonight's performance. Beginning with a softly sung chorus of "I Get Off," the track delivered a mix of seductive melody and hard rock intensity. Lzzy's emotional delivery and powerful vocal performance were standouts, bringing the audience into the song's story. The band's instrumentation was polished, with Joe's guitar solos providing depth and complexity. Kicking right into "Freak Like Me", the song was a high-energy anthem that had the crowd jumping and singing along. The band's tight performance and Lzzy's charismatic stage presence kept the energy level high. Arejay's drumming was especially impressive, driving the song's rhythm with precision and power. The shifting lighting and strong fog presence kept the atmosphere dynamic, complementing the song's upbeat tempo. The enthusiastic response from the audience demonstrated the song's popularity and influence. "Black Vultures" added a darker and heavier tone to the set. The band's performance was intense, with Lzzy's fierce vocals and Joe's powerful guitar riffs making a big impact. The stage visuals featured deep red & yellow lighting, adding to the song's ominous atmosphere. The audience was fully engaged, headbanging and engaging enthusiastically to the heavy riffs and powerful lyrics. Holding a purple rose and serenading the audience, "Familiar Taste of Poison" demonstrated the band's ability to combine emotional depth with musical intensity. Lzzy's vocal performance was haunting and powerful, capturing the song's melancholy tone. The band's instrumentation was tight, and Joe's guitar work added an extra layer of complexity as Lzzy roamed the stage playing to the crowd. The lighting was softer and more subdued, resulting in an intimate and reflective environment. The audience's reaction was heartfelt, with fans swaying and singing along to the moving ballad. One lucky fan was overjoyed to be able to catch the purple rose as Lzzy tossed it to the front barricade and blew a kiss to the audience. Lzzy returned to her guitar as "Takes My Life" continued the emotional journey with powerful lyrics and melodic hooks. The band's performance was polished and emotive, with Lzzy's vocal delivery continuing to captivate the audience. The audience responded with heartfelt applause and cheers, expressing appreciation for the emotionally charged performance. The drum circle moment was a highlight, adding a unique and interactive element by bringing the entire band to the front of the stage and drumming on their own drums simultaneously, resulting in a powerful rhythmic experience. The lighting and stage effects added to the impact, with the light up Halestorm logo above the backdrop rapidly shifting colors, making it a memorable part of the performance. It was followed by Arejay Hale's drum solo, which showcased his technical abilities and showmanship before ending with a killer stick flip. The solo was dynamic and energetic, and Arejay hooked the audience while demonstrating his versatility as a drummer. "Back From the Dead" revived the energy with its aggressive riffs and powerful lyrics. Lzzy's vocal performance was fierce and authoritative, boosting the song's intensity. The band's tight musicianship and forceful stage presence kept the audience entirely engaged, with Lzzy and Joe standing side by side shredding away during the songs solo. The deep blue, red, and white lighting was intense, matching the song's high energy. The crowd went wild, moshing and singing along to Lzzy's commanding vocals. With Lzzy addressing the audience and declaring that we were now all best friends, she suggested we take things a step further by asking the Illinois crowd if we loved her, can we love her, before belting out "Apocalyptic," which kept the momentum going with its fast-paced rhythm and rebellious lyrics. The band's performance continued tight and energetic, with Lzzy's vocal delivery and Joe's guitar work particularly noteworthy. The lighting and stage effects were dynamic, increasing the song's impact. The audience was completely engaged, jumping and shouting along to the infectious chorus. "Rock Show" was an anthem that praised the power of live music. The band delivered another energetic and engaging performance, with Lzzy's charismatic stage presence drawing the audience in. The instrumentation was tight, and Arejay's drumming drove the song's rhythm. The lighting and visuals were bright and colorful, resulting in a celebratory atmosphere. The audience responded fervently, singing along and appreciating the live music experience. Taking a moment to thank QRock for putting on the show, WIIL Rock for supporting the band throughout the years, as well as everyone in attendance for coming out to tonight's party, Lzzy would tell the crowd to give it up for openers Fit For A King and Hollywood Undead, and would then emphatically declare that tonight in Tinley Park "this is our church" and "you are our people" as the set concluded with the powerful track "The Steeple". Lzzy's vocal performance was very effective in capturing the song's emotional depth and intensity. The band's harmonious performance provided a powerful conclusion to the concert. The audience reacted overwhelmingly positively, with fans cheering and applauding as the band wound down the set and exited the stage.
History
I Prevail is an American metalcore band that formed in 2013 in Southfield, Michigan. I Prevail quickly rose to prominence in the modern metal scene due to their aggressive yet melodic sound, powerful vocal performances, and emotional lyrics. In 2013, high school friends Brian Burkheiser (clean vocals) and Eric Vanlerberghe (harsh vocals) formed the band I Prevail. The band began as a cover band, playing popular rock and metal songs. They gained popularity when their cover of Taylor Swift's "Blank Space" went viral on YouTube in December 2014, demonstrating their ability to incorporate heavy elements into mainstream pop songs. Today's lineup consists of: Eric Vanlerberghe (harsh vocals), Brian Burkheiser (clean vocals), Dylan Bowman (rhythm guitar, backing vocals), Steve Menoian (lead guitar), Gabe Helguera (drums) & Jon Eberhard (touring bass). The bands first EP offering would be "Heart vs. Mind" which released in 2014. In 2016, I Prevail released their debut studio album, "Lifelines," which catapulted them to fame. The album contained a mix of reworked covers and original songs, including the hit singles "Scars" and "Alone." "Lifelines" debuted at number 19 on the Billboard 200 chart, receiving positive feedback for its combination of metalcore aggression and catchy hooks. Following the success of "Lifelines," I Prevail went on to tour extensively, performing at major festivals and headlining tours all over the world. Their energetic live shows and emotionally charged performances cemented their status as an emerging leader in the metalcore genre. In 2019, I Prevail released their highly anticipated second Grammy nominated album, "Trauma." This album represented a significant evolution in their sound, as they explored darker themes and integrated elements of electronic and alternative rock alongside their signature metalcore roots. "Trauma" debuted at number 14 on the Billboard 200 chart and featured standout tracks such as "Breaking Down," and "Bow Down", the latter earning them a second Grammy nomination in the "Best Metal Performance" category, highlighting the band's development as songwriters and performers. Most recently the band has released their third studio album"True Power" in August 2022. I Prevail's music features heavy guitar riffs, aggressive drumming, and a dual vocal approach that alternates between clean melodies and intense screams. Lyrically, their songs frequently address personal struggle, mental health, overcoming adversity, and resilience. This emotional depth appeals to their fans, who appreciate the band's honest and introspective lyrics. I Prevail's distinct blend of genres has allowed them to appeal to a wide range of listeners, from traditional metalcore & rock fans to those new to the genre. They have successfully bridged the gap between the mainstream and underground metal scenes, earning accolades for their creativity and commitment to their craft. I Prevail continues to tour the world, connecting with fans through their powerful live performances and engaging social media presence. They have been relentless in their pursuit of solidifying their position as one of the top bands in contemporary metalcore. I Prevail's journey from covering pop songs on YouTube to becoming a chart-topping metalcore band exemplifies their determination, talent, and ability to connect with audiences around the world. Their continued growth and impact on the metalcore scene ensures their long-term presence in the metal & rock genres.
Performance
When the lights went out, the audience was greeted by the massive LED stage setup, which included a screen that stretched the length of the stage backdrop and was built into the drum riser portion of the setup. An intro video featuring a shadowy hooded figure in a dimly lit room surrounded by flickering lights, industrial machines, and static flickering TVs would recite the outro of their track "FWYTYK," "In all your life, in all your love, all your hate, all your memories, all your pain" and so on before stating "There is Fear in Letting Go," which would be the first song to kick off the high-powered performance. The band's energy was palpable from the start, with Brian Burkheiser's clean vocals and Eric Vanlerberghe's screams creating a captivating interplay. The heavy guitar riffs and crushing drums immediately got the crowd moving. The smoke filled stage was illuminated with intense lights and strobes, which added to the dramatic atmosphere. The audience responded zealously, moshing and headbanging from the first riff. It was great to see Brain back on stage with the band after having to miss the years earlier performances due to surgery complications. After a brief moment of soaking up the fans cheers, Eric would entice the crowd to "open the moshpit motherfucker" as "Body Bag" continued the high-energy momentum with its aggressive riffs and intense lyrics, erupting in a massive scream to begin the song. The band's performance was tight, demonstrating their connection and skilled musicianship. Eric's growls were especially ferocious, and Brian's clean sections provided a musical contrast. The lighting and visuals were synchronized to the music, resulting in a captivating experience. The crowd's enthusiasm was contagious, with fans shouting the lyrics and vigorously moshing. With the stage lighting turning a deep red, Eric would crouch down at the front of the stage, repeating "If you don't know the devil" as the audience screamed back "then you don't know me!" signaling that "Self-Destruction" was next on the setlist. The track featured a mix of aggression and melody, demonstrating the band's ability to blend different musical styles. Brian's passionate delivery and Eric's powerful screams increased the song's intensity. The band's instrumentation was precise, featuring intricate guitar work and a strong rhythm section. The stage production featured dynamic lighting and video backdrops to heighten the song's impact. The audience was completely engaged, singing along with the chorus and reacting enthusiastically to the breakdowns. At the end of the song, the band would exit the stage and we were met again by the hooded shadowy figure on screen, who exclaimed, "More, always wanting more. Famished for fulfillment, in a race to the bottom that doesn't exist. You fear the truth because you don't want your illusions destroyed" as eerie imagery flashed across the screens. It kept going: "like the light in the tunnel that's always just out of reach, the world will pass you by but you keep staring at the sun". The band would return to the stage, dedicating the next song "Bad Things" to Hollywood Undead, and encouraging the audience to sing along. The track had a slightly more melodic and introspective vibe, illustrating the band's versatility. Brian's vocals were heartfelt and powerful, capturing the song's emotional depth. The band delivered an energetic performance, with strong artistry and a honed sound. The lighting changed to softer colors, resulting in a more reflective atmosphere. The audience reacted enthusiastically, swaying and singing along to the compelling lyrics. Eric would take a minute to address the audience with an emphatic "Chicago, what the fuck is up?!" He would go on to say that he was happy "us boys from Detroit and y'all from Chicago can put aside our hockey differences and have a good fuckin time tonight". He went on to say that the band had been going strong for ten years now and asked how many had been with them the entire time and how many were seeing the band for the first time, which appeared to be a 50/50 split among the audience. He explained that it all began with their cover of Taylor Swift's "Blank Space". He went on to say that they don't play the song very often and that he thoroughly doesn't enjoy playing it, but they would perform it and encouraged the audience to help them out, which they happily obliged. I Prevail's unique take on the pop hit added a heavier, more intense feel to the track. Brian's clean vocals and Eric's screams created a compelling dynamic, while the band's instrumentation provided a metalcore edge. The audience responded passionately singing along and admiring the band's creativity in reinterpreting the well-known song. Toward the end of the track, just before the final chorus, Eric would ask the band to stop and thank the audience for their support over the last ten years. He went on to say that "we play this song strictly for you guys" and "this, this next part is for us" before the band returned with an almost deathcore-esque rendition to end the track featuring massive blast beats and gutturals from Eric. With the LED backdrop displaying an I Prevail logo that flickered back and forth into a Halestorm logo, Eric would address the crowd once more, proclaiming "a little while ago we did something special. We released a song with some of our new good friends from Halestorm. Please welcome to the stage, Lzzy fuckin Hale." Lzzy began her opening vocals on the track as she walked out and joined the band on stage for their latest collaboration, "can you see me in the dark?", adding her powerful vocals to the mix. The partnership increased the performance's intensity and emotional depth. Lzzy and Eric's vocal harmonies were riveting, with screams from both mixed in adding depth to the track. After Lzzy departed the stage, Eric would ask the audience, "How about we crack open the heavy shit? This is "Visceral"; you don't have to know it; just push someone," to which the audience eagerly responded, with pits forming. The track's heavy riffs and intense vocals reintroduced raw aggression. The band's performance was fierce, with Eric's guttural screams and Brian's melodic sections establishing a dynamic interplay. The stage production featured intense lighting and a variety of static imagery visual effects across the LED backdrop to match the song's intensity. The crowd responded enthusiastically, moshing and shouting along to the powerful track. Brian would then take his turn addressing the audience. "Chicago, how are we doing right now? We've done about ten shows on this tour so far, and you guys are killing it; I can't believe how many people are here tonight." He'd go on: "normally we ask you guys to make noise for us, but I want you guys to make some noise for your fuckin selves." The crowd gladly obliged. He went on to discuss his recent struggles with two surgeries to treat the rare "eagles syndrome" he was diagnosed with in his neck. He went on to say that he has also been suffering from severe depression for several years now as well. He said he had sunk so low that he didn't know what to do, but one day he really expressed how he felt to his bandmates, family, and friends, and it significantly helped him work through the difficult times he had been experiencing. He explained that he knew there were others in the crowd who were in similar situations, being in a very dark place. "Where its hard to get out of bed in the morning and even harder to go to bed at night, but from me, someone who's gone through this a lot the past couple years, I promise you there is light at the end of the tunnel. You just have to fight your ass off as hard as you possibly can. Whether you know it or not there is someone on this planet who wants you here and we want you here." He would then go on to dedicate the next song "Breaking Down" to all those out there sharing a similar sentiment. Brian's emotional delivery and Eric's powerful screams captured the song's depth and vulnerability. The band's performance was flawless, with tight instrumentation and a powerful stage presence. The lighting and visuals created an immersive atmosphere, adding to the song's emotional impact. The audience was completely engaged, singing along and empathizing with the song's touching lyrics. Brian and Eric would tell the crowd it was time to switch it up and raise your middle fingers to the sky, with Erick emphatically saying "Fuck what you think you know motherfuckers," which led to the next track, "FWYTYK." The song's aggressive riffs and intense lyrics would re-energize the audience. Eric's screams and Brian's clean vocals made for a captivating contrast, as did the precise instrumentation, which included powerful guitar work and a strong rhythm section. Prior to the breakdown, Eric would say that this is usually when he would ask the audience to split it down the middle. "However, with a bunch of fuckin seats in the way, we're going to try something different. When I say "go," you bang your fuckin head." The crowd would respond to the call collectively, losing their minds and letting everything out. Next up was "Judgement Day," which maintained the high-energy momentum with its heavy riffs and powerful lyrics. The band's performance was intense, with Eric's guttural screams and Brian's melodic sections forming an infectious combination. The lighting and visuals were synchronized to the music, resulting in a captivating experience. The audience remained fully engaged, shouting out the lyrics and engaging ecstatically to the breakdowns. Before the next song began, Eric would exclaim, "We're going to keep the energy high. This next one goes out to that motherfucker who can't keep his mouth shut, get the fuck up, get the fuck up, this ones called "Choke". Bringing a mix of aggression and melody, the band demonstrated its ability to blend various musical styles. Brian's emotional delivery and Eric's powerful screams elevating the song's intensity. As the song ended, Eric would spot a person in the crowd and exclaim, "I found my guy who drank too many beers tonight, hell yeah! Don't worry, I'll be there in about 15 minutes, I'll be on the same level as you." He went on to say that since they had just kicked our asses with some heavy ones, they would tone it down and play a sing-along, which elicited cheers from the audience. "This one is called "Hurricane" you may know it, sing along motherfucker!" The track represented a more melodic and introspective moment in the set. Brian's heartfelt vocals and Eric's powerful backing vocals capturing the song's depth and vulnerability. The lighting and visuals created an immersive atmosphere, adding to the song's emotional impact. The audience was completely engaged, singing along and empathizing with the song's emotional lyrics. For one final time, the mysterious hooded shadowy figure would appear across the LED backdrop. This time, the message would be: "The absurd mystery, and strange forces of existence have led you to this moment. Time is an illusion, fear is the mindkiller, and this is your funeral. Welcome to the end. The time has come, look to the sky and fall to your knees. If you seek forgiveness, you'll get nothing from me", which would lead into the potent performance of "Bow Down". A powerful and intense track, the song would build up the energy to a climax. The band's performance was fierce and commanding, with Eric's screams and Brian's clean vocals propelling the song’s intensity. Following an ovation from the audience, Eric exclaimed emphatically, "One fuckin more!" as the opening riff for the face melting "Gasoline" played. With Eric hyping up the audience one last time, the band launched into the fast-paced scorching track. The band would leave it all onstage, releasing their infectious energy one more time to close out the night. Prior to the final breakdown, Eric would antagonize the audience once more, "Chicago can you feel it?! This is your last chance. There aint shit after us. Everything that is going on in the outside world, fuck that shit. This is where you let it all out. We have 2min left with you, we are going to give you everything we have left. Chicago, what the fuck are you going to do?!", as they brought the breakdown to a head, and the crowd erupted in chaos for the final time. After the final notes rang out, they would thank everyone in attendance before leaving the stage to a well-deserved ovation.
This summer tour, featuring Fit For A King, Hollywood Undead, Halestorm, and I Prevail, was an electrifying and unforgettable experience for rock and metal fans. Each band brought their own distinct style and energy to the stage, delivering powerful performances that captivated the audience. Fit For A King's relentless intensity, Hollywood Undead's dynamic combination of rock and rap, Halestorm's captivating charisma and musicianship, and I Prevail's emotional and high-energy performance all contributed to a tour that celebrated the diversity and power of modern rock and metal music. The tour not only showcased each band's exceptional talent, but it also helped create a sense of community within the rock and metal scene and shared passion among fans, making it a standout highlight of the summer concert season thus far. With 16 stops remaining on the full four-band bill, fans still have a chance to get tickets and see this high-energy performance in a state near you. This is a tour that you will not want to miss!
Review & Photography By: Nick Buzinski
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