Sat Dec 9th - Currently in the midst of a hot selling 12-date run across the US & Canada, with 5 of the dates already SOLD OUT, metal veterans Nonpoint would bring "The Million Watts Tour" to northern Illinois on Saturday night to the newly reconstructed Apollo Theatre AC in Belvidere. On this tour as support, the band will be joined by another group of veterans in Hed PE, as well as the infectious Sumo Cyco and the underrated VRSTY. The Apollo Theatre AC, located in the heart of Belvidere, Illinois, has a long history marked by resilience, cultural contributions, and a tragic turn of events. The Apollo, originally built and managed by the Rhinehart family, arose from the ashes of its predecessor, the Derthick Opera House, which was destroyed by a fire in 1917. The theatre, which has a seating capacity of 950, opened its doors on January 11, 1922, with the intention of hosting both stage shows and films. The Apollo stepped into the spotlight in 1926 as the subject and filming location for Don O. Newland's film "Belvidere's Hero," forever embedding itself in the community's cultural narrative. In order to keep up with the times, The Apollo installed air conditioning in 1931, and renovations continued until 1940. However, the 1950s marked the beginning of a downward spiral, culminating in another devastating fire in 1975. In the 1980s, a change in ownership and a subsequent long-term closure cast a shadow over the once-vibrant venue. In 2001, a ray of hope appeared when Belvidere-based insurance agent Maria Martinez spearheaded efforts to revitalize the theatre. The doors were reopened not only as a theatre but also as the Apollo Theatre AC banquet hall, combining historic charm with a modern purpose. Recognizing its importance, The Apollo was named a contributing property to the Belvidere North State Street Historic District in 2012. Earlier this year on March 31, 2023, tragedy struck the theatre again when a severe weather warning forced management to halt a scheduled performance. Moments later an EF1 tornado caused the roof and marquee outside the venue to collapse. Morbid Angel, Revocation, Skeletal Remains, and Crypta's scheduled death metal performance was met with a somber atmosphere, as one person would unfortunately pass away and 48 others were injured among the 260 people who attended. The theatre recently opened up again in October of 2023, hosting rock/metal veterans Taproot as the first performance since the tornado. I have attended many shows over the years at the Apollo and this would be my first one back since the incident. I must say the team responsible for the repair process did a remarkable job reconstructiong the venue back to its former glory. Despite the challenges its faced, the Apollo Theatre AC has risen from the ashes once more and remains a staple of Belvidere's narrative as a symbol of resilience, cultural heritage, and the unpredictability of life. Its journey from movie stardom to heartbreaking tragedy has left a lasting imprint on the community it has served for over a century, and looks to continue doing so for hopefully another century.
Courtsey of The Apollo Theatre
VRSTY, pronounced "Varsity," is a musical force as dynamic and varied as the city where they were born. VRSTY was created by band leader Joey Varela, a Puerto Rican singer from New York City's vibrant tapestry, and draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including R&B, pop, Spanish music, and the intensity of metallic post-hardcore. With an ambitious spirit and raw enthusiasm, the band bravely blends genres. VRSTY is led by Joey Varela, who is accompanied by guitarist Paul Gregory, bassist Javier Dorrejo, and drummer Chris Cody. The band's discography includes several EPs preceding their debut album, "Welcome Home," which dropped in 2020. Following the success of their debut album, VRSTY embarked on a creative journey that included a three-part series of sequel EPs, solidifying their reputation as genre-defying artists. In a testament to their musical prowess, "Massive" from their 2020 "Cloud City" EP was the Most Played track on SiriusXM's Octane for two weeks in a row. VRSTY's identity has been built on authenticity and unwavering passion. "Levitate," their sophomore album, is a testament to conviction and unwavering commitment to following their creative muse. "Levitate," filled with rich melodic hooks and headbang-inducing grooves, exemplifies the band's evolution and commitment to pushing musical boundaries. The album is a sonic journey that reflects VRSTY's commitment to innovation, produced in collaboration with Justin Deblieck (Ice Nine Kills, Motionless In White, Lorna Shore, Fit For A King) and mixed by George Lever (Sleep Token, Holding Absence, Loathe). Beyond the studio, VRSTY commands stages with a magnetic presence, connecting with audiences who identify with themes of self-worth, navigating difficult relationships, and feeling like an outsider. This sense of connection has been shared by the band on tours with notable acts such as 10 Years, Monuments, Secrets, and For The Fallen Dreams. VRSTY seeks to encourage, provoke, and inspire listeners rather than simply entertain them. VRSTY continues to make an impression on the contemporary rock and metal landscape with their genuine approach to music and unapologetic embrace of diverse influences.
The night would start with their song "Fuck You Forever" as it kicked off the show with an abundance of raw energy, encapsulating heartbreak with blistering guitars and relentless drumming. From the start, VRSTY set an unapologetically bold tone. With its fast pace, dynamic rhythm, and anthemic choruses, "Levitate" elevated the atmosphere. VRSTY navigated the song's highs and lows, creating an immersive experience that was well received by the audience. Shifting gears, the band embraced infectious melodies, seamlessly blending pop influences. "Glad You Came" unfolded like a vibrant tapestry of emotions, welcoming the audience into a world of upbeat optimism. VRSTY delved into introspection, delivering a moving performance of "Can You Love Me" that explored the complexities of love. The band expertly balanced vulnerability and intense musicality, stimulating the audience with every heartfelt note. "Black & Blue" created a visceral soundscape with an onslaught of intensity. The combination of aggressive instrumentation and emotive vocals resulted in a contrasting yet unified sonic experience. VRSTY demonstrated their versatility with "The Way It Is" as they moved into a more reflective mood. The song progressed like a story, weaving intricate melodies and showcasing the band's storytelling abilities. With this soul-stirring ballad, the performance took a more intimate turn. VRSTY stripped away the layers, allowing the audience to connect deeply with the emotive lyrics and delicate instrumentation. "Shameless" delivered one final blow to the crowd to close out the opening set.
The dynamic and genre-blending Sumo Cyco was founded in 2011 in Toronto, Canada. The brainchild of charismatic frontwoman Skye "Sever" Sweetnam, the band quickly rose to prominence for their unique fusion of punk, metal, ska, and electronic elements. Skye Sweetnam, who rose to prominence as a pop-rock artist under her own name, moved into heavier music with Sumo Cyco. Sweetnam on vocals, Matt Drake on guitar, Ken Corke on bass, and drummer Ryan Leger comprised the band's early lineup. After a few adjustments over the years, the current lineup consists of vocalist Skye Sweetnam, guitarist Matt Drake, bassist Oscar Anesetti and drummer Joey Muha. Sumo Cyco's debut EP, "Lost in Cyco City," was released in 2011, showcasing their eclectic sound and Skye Sweetnam's versatile vocals. The EP received positive feedback for its upbeat, genre-defying approach. The band continued to make waves with the release of their debut full-length album, "Lost in Cyco City," in 2014. The album continued their sonic exploration, combining punk aggression with electronic elements and Sweetnam's engaging vocal delivery. Sumo Cyco's growing fanbase was aided by their reputation for delivering high-energy and visually captivating live performances led by Sweetnam's louder than life personality. Their ability to blend elements from various genres into a cohesive sound has helped distinguish them in the alternative music scene. Sumo Cyco self-released their sophomore album, "Opus Mar," in 2017 after a successful crowdfunding campaign. The album demonstrated their progression, with songs like "Anti-Anthem" and "Move Mountains" demonstrating their ability to craft infectious hooks while maintaining a heavy edge. Fans and industry professionals alike were drawn to the band's innovative approach to music and DIY ethos. Sumo Cyco's incorporation of punk, metal, and electronic elements, combined with Sweetnam's charismatic stage presence, established them as a distinct and exciting force in the alternative music landscape. Sumo Cyco's momentum continued in 2020 with their signing to the mighty Napalm Records, which would lead to the release of their third album, "Initiation" in 2021. The album featured a mix of heavy riffs, catchy choruses, and electronic elements, strengthening the band's reputation for pushing the envelope.
Sumo Cyco's performance started strong with "Sleep Tight" serving as a fiery overture, lighting up the stage with a relentless rhythm and electrifying stage presence. The band demonstrated their versatility by moving into more melodic territory. "Love You Wrong" unfolded with infectious hooks and dynamic vocals, immersing the audience with its emotional depth. The resilient anthem "Undefeated" charged through the venue with a defiant spirit. As the crowd absorbed in the empowering atmosphere, Sumo Cyco's performance exuded strength. "Vertigo," a dizzying array of sound and emotion, shifted the pace, before shifting it even further by stopping mid song and Skye telling the band they needed to switch things up to help wake up the crowd and pulled out a classic by covering System of a Down's "B.Y.O.B." The band skillfully navigated through the songs intricate layers, with Skye doing a remarkable job on vocals, creating a musical whirlwind that exhilarated the audience. "Rivalry," a track that embraced aggression and intensity, generated a sonic battleground, as Skye would hop into the crowd and instigate some more movement from the audience. With "Bystander," a song about observation and introspection, the mood changed to contemplative. Sumo Cyco's ability to weave nuanced narratives into their music was evident. "Run With The Giants" swept through the crowd like an anthem of empowerment. The dynamic stage presence of the band elevated the performance, creating an immersive experience that resonated with the collective heartbeat of the audience. Sumo Cyco followed with "Move Mountains," a track that fused heavy instrumentation with infectious grooves. The set culminated with the triumphant "No Surrender." Sumo Cyco delivered a powerful finale, sure to leave a lasting impression with a performance that echoed the evening's themes of defiance and resilience. The band's ability to traverse diverse soundscapes seamlessly ensured an unforgettable night of energy.
(Hed) PE, also known as (Higher Education) Planet Earth, is a genre-defying band that formed in 1994 in Huntington Beach, California. Lead vocalist Jared Gomes, also known by his stage name M.C.U.D (MC Underdog), founded the band. Hed PE set out to create a sound that blended elements of punk rock, hip-hop, reggae, and heavy metal from the beginning, breaking down genre barriers and defying easy categorization. Gomes, Wes "Wesstyle" Geer (guitar), Ken "The Finger" Sachs (keyboard), Chad "Chizad" Benekos (guitar), Mark "Mawk" Young (bass), Ben "B.C." Vaught (drums), and DJ Product 1969 (turntables) were the original members of Hed PE. This diverse group of musicians brought a wide range of influences to the table, contributing to the band's eclectic sound, labled "G-Punk". Hed PE signed with Jive Records in 1997 and released their self-titled debut album, "hed PE." The album combined aggressive punk with rap-infused vocals and socially conscious lyrics. The song "Bartender" received a lot of attention and helped establish the band as a force to be reckoned with in the alternative music scene. Their sophomore album, "Broke," released in 2000, continued to push musical genre boundaries. The album featured hits such as "Killing Time" and "Broke," and it demonstrated the band's ability to seamlessly incorporate punk, rap, and metal elements into their music. Hed PE's lineup has changed several times over the years, but Jared Gomes has remained the constant driving force and is now joined by Jeremiah "Trauma" Stratton (drums), Kurt "Kid Bass" Blankenship (bass), and Nathan Javier (guitars). With albums like "Blackout" (2003), "Only in Amerika" (2004), "Back 2 Base X" (2006), "Insomnia" (2007), "New World Orphans" (2009), "Truth Rising" (2010), "Evolution" (2014), "Forever!" (2016), "Stampede" (Single) (2019), "Class of 2020" (2020) and "Califas Worldwide" (2021) the band continued to explore new musical territory. Their sound evolved while staying true to genre blending and experimentation. Hed PE's lyrics frequently address social and political issues, such as racism, inequality, and personal struggles. This added depth to their music and resonated with fans who admired the band's honesty and willingness to confront difficult topics. Now in 2023 the band are back with brand new music, as this month they will release "Detox" on Dec 15th. Hed PE, known for their high-energy live performances, has amassed a devoted fanbase and rose to prominence in the nu-metal and alternative scenes. Because of their versatility and refusal to conform to musical norms, they were able to carve out a distinct niche in the music industry.
Hed PE kicked off their set with "Peer Pressure," an explosive introduction that captivated the audience with its raw intensity right away. The opening song's relentless energy created a charged atmosphere, signaling the start of an adrenaline pumping musical journey. Hed PE then seamlessly transitioned into "Killing Time," unleashing a slew of aggressive rhythms and powerful vocals from Jared Gomes, proving he's still got it after all these years. The song's relentless pace and dynamic shifts highlighted the band's tight musicianship, energizing the audience. "Blackout" would take the crowds energy up a notch, with the pits getting a little more rowdy, helping create an even more raucous environment. The melodies and heavy guitar riffs created a vibe that resonated with the audience, enhancing the concert experience. A rush of adrenaline swept through the crowd as the pulsating beats of "Let's Ride" began to play. The infectious groove and anthemic chorus of the song became a rallying cry, uniting fans in a collective moment of pure musical ecstasy. With its ferocious tempo and unbridled aggression, "Raise Hell" would help take the energy a step further. The band's stage presence and the song's relentless energy combined to create a visceral connection between the performers and the audience, who chanted "Hed PE" incessantly throughout the performance during any break the band would give them. Their song "Sophia" provided a moment of reflection, with its melodic passages and emotive lyrics providing a contrast to the previous intensity. The band's ability to transition between moments of introspection and all-out assault added layers of complexity to the performance. "Bartender," a standout in Hed PE's discography, would follow up. The infectious rhythms and iconic chorus of the song elicited a spontaneous ovation from the audience, transforming the venue into a collective celebration of musical rebellion. "Renegade" brought the set to a rousing close, leaving an imprint on the fans with its thunderous rhythms and anthemic quality. The band's unwavering energy and connection with the audience peaked as they delivered their final sonic onslaught. Hed PE's set was a masterclass in blending aggression and melody, taking the audience on an emotional and sonic rollercoaster. Each song added to the immersive experience, highlighting the band's evolution and lasting impact on the alternative music scene.
Nonpoint, a tenacious and versatile rock/numetal band, formed in 1997 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The band's determination to overcome obstacles and adapt to an ever-changing music landscape has defined their journey over the years. Nonpoint began their ascent in the South Florida music scene with vocalist Elias Soriano, drummer Robb Rivera, guitarist Andrew Goldman, and bassist/backing vocalist Ken MacMillan. They faced difficulties early on, including a changing lineup, with the current lineup consisting of vocalist Elias Soriano, rhythm guitar / backing vocalist Rasheed Thomas, bassist Adam Woloszyn, lead guitarist Jaysin Zeilstra and drummer Robb Rivera. This adversity, however, did not impede their progress; rather, it contributed to the band's ability to adapt and persevere. Nonpoint signed with MCA Records in 1999 and released their debut album, "Statement" in 2000. The single "What a Day" from the album drew attention, introducing Nonpoint's blend of heavy riffs, rhythmic grooves, and Soriano's distinct vocals. Their sound, which has been labeled alternative metal or nu-metal, resonated with fans looking for a potent blend of aggression and melody. Subsequent albums, such as "Development" (2002) and "Recoil" (2004), "To The Pain" (2005), "Vengeance" (2007) cemented Nonpoint's place in the rock and metal scenes. Elias Soriano's emotive vocals and the band's dynamic live performances became defining elements of their identity. Nonpoint's sound continued to evolve and experiment, incorporating elements of alternative rock and post-grunge. "Miracle" (2010) marked a departure from the band's earlier nu-metal roots while retaining the band's core intensity and lyrical depth. Nonpoint continued to release albums such as "Nonpoint" (2012), "The Return" (2014), "The Poison Red" (2016) and "X" (2018) despite lineup changes over the years, with Elias Soriano and Robb Rivera remaining the only original members. In April 2021, Nonpoint announced the creation of their independent record label, 361 Degrees Records. Most recently in 2023 the band has released their latest EP "Heartless" just under a month ago on Nov 17th. Each subsequent album has demonstrated the band's ability to adapt to changing musical environments while remaining true to their core identity. Nonpoint's lyrics frequently deal with personal struggles, resilience, and empowerment. The band's dynamic musicality, combined with Elias Soriano's introspective and relatable lyrics, resonate with a diverse audience. Nonpoint's tenacity and dedication to their craft have earned them a loyal following and a reputation as a continued formidable force in the rock and metal genres. Their ability to navigate the changing currents of the music industry while staying true to their roots underscores their enduring impact on the scene.
Nonpoint would take to the stage with "A Million Watts," a powerful opener that shook the venue and instantly created a high-energy atmosphere. A pair of ultra bright lighting rigs flanked the stage on both sides to go along with the glimmering overhead sunburst style lights bathing the band, helping create a powerful atmosphere, as the song's surging vocals and intense rhythms set the tone for an explosive opening. "Chaos And Earthquakes" was the next track, and it unleashed a torrent of aggressive guitar riffs from Jaysin Zeilstra and the thunderous drumming of Robb Rivera. The song's relentless energy resonated with the audience, creating an unmistakable feeling of excitement from the crowd. Nonpoint delved into their catalog with the anthemic "What A Day," a crowd-pleaser that elicited a spirited response. The band's ability to craft memorable hooks and engage the audience was highlighted by the infectious chorus and dynamic shifts. "Dodge Your Destiny" gave the concert a darker, more atmospheric feel. The haunting melodies and emotionally charged lyrics strengthened the performance, resulting in a captivating experience. Nonpoint then transitioned into "Wannabe King," a punchy and rebellious anthem off of their upcoming new EP. The song's edgy guitar work and defiant lyrics resonated with the audience, resulting in a moment of collective intensity. With its ferocious tempo and unapologetic aggression, "The Wreckoning" heightened the concert experience. The tight musicianship of the band and the powerful vocals of Elias Soriano combined to create a visceral connection between the stage and the audience. Nonpoint surprised the audience with a cover of the Beastie Boys' classic "Fight For Your Right," infusing their own energy into the iconic track. The unexpected rendition added a nostalgic and playful element to the set. "Milestone" featured a melodic interlude that demonstrated Nonpoint's versatility. Within the high-octane performance, the song's emotive qualities and infectious melodies provided a moment of reflection. "Breaking Skin" became the concert's focal point, with its anthemic chorus and impactful lyrics eliciting a passionate response from the audience. The band's stage presence, combined with the emotional intensity of the song, created a memorable moment. The infectious rhythms and dynamic shifts of "Golden Gloves," another new track, kept the energy levels soaring throughout the set. As fans rocked to the music, it was clear that the band knew how to get the crowd involved. "Spanish 102" added some variety to the performance by fusing Spanish influences with Nonpoint's trademark intensity. The intricate arrangements and bilingual lyrics of the song demonstrated the band's willingness to venture into unique musical territory. "That Day" evoked feelings of nostalgia in long-time fans. The audience's familiarity with the song provoked a passionate response, forging a bond between the band and their devoted fans. "Ruthless" continued the concert's momentum with a barrage of heavy riffs and intense drumming to match the bands electric stage presence. Nonpoint's commitment to delivering a powerful performance was emphasized by the song's relentless energy and Elias Soriano's dynamic vocals. The concert culminated with the explosive "Bullet With A Name." The iconic song, known for its fierce energy and anthemic quality, was a fitting end to an unforgettable night. Nonpoint exited the stage with the audience still buzzing from the adrenaline-fueled experience, cementing their reputation among some of the best performers in the rock and metal scene.
With only 5 dates remaining on this tour, and only 3 of them still having tickets available, there aren't many chances to catch one of these explosive performances. The tour will stop at Bottom Lounge in Chicago tomorrow for a second Illinois performance before moving on to The Mercury Ballroom in Louisville, KY, The Eclectic Room in Angola, IN, and two SOLD OUT nights at The Machine Shop in Flint, MI. The Machine Shop Performances will also mark the debut of The Machine Shop Digital Lounge Live Streaming Platform, with The Million Watts Tour serving as the first performance in their new digital concert experience. Nonpoint will take a break after the tour concludes before heading out next spring to play three of the biggest festivals of 2024: the Sick New World Festival on April 27th in Las Vegas, NV, the Welcome to Rockville Festival on May 10th in Daytona, FL, and the Sonic Temple Festival on May 17th in Columbus, OH. The band will also be a part of the Rock Lansing Festival on May 18th in Lansing, MI. Hed PE will close out 2023 with a solo performance at Wildwood in Iowa City, Iowa on December 17th. The band will kick off 2024 with a 10-date headline run on the Detox West Coast Tour, which will begin on January 20th and conclude on February 1st. Johnny Richter (Kottonmouth Kings) and Stacc Styles will provide support on that tour. Like Nonpoint, Hed PE will also perform at the Welcome to Rockville Festival on May 11th. Sumo Cyco does not appear to have any upcoming tour dates, but you can keep an eye on their social media channels to stay up to date on any future news & tour dates they may announce. VRSTY also appears to have nothing planned for the near future, but you can keep an eye on their social media channels as well for updates and catch their vocalist Joey Varela on the upcoming Shiprocked Cruise as part of "The Stowaways." Overall, The Million Watts Tour has been a dynamic, electric celebration of music, community, and Nonpoint's undeniable power on stage, as well as a testament to Nonpoint's constant commitment to delivering a sonic experience that transcends the ordinary. The memories formed during this tour will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of fans long after the final notes fade away. I'd like to thank the band for allowing me to come out and capture such an incredible performance.
Review & Photography By: Nick Buzinski
Find Nick Online!
Comments