LIVE: SEVENDUST – May 27, 2018

Venue: The International

City: Knoxville, TN

Date: May 27, 2018

Review and Photographs by: Rachel Craig (http://www.rachelcraigphotos.net/)

Sevendust is at a career high after the recent release of their latest album in May called All I See Is War, bringing their recent tour to The International. The show began with Madame Mayhem, who belted catchy songs with an incredible vocal range that stayed clean while still holding the aggression of hard rock. Her presence on stage was captivating and reminded me of a softer version of Liv Sin, donning spiked fingerless gloves, chains, and a flowing black cardigan. Songs on Madame Mayhem’s setlist included “War You Started,” “Innocent,” and “Monster.” Next was Fire From The Gods. This band has limitless energy, jumping and leaping across stage with their aggressive blend of metal, hip hop, and a message about social change. Frontman AJ Channer stopped to point out a little girl in the crowd jamming on her dad’s shoulders, saying that how parents raise their kids can help change the “epidemic of people wanting to shoot each other.” Fire From The Gods played several of their hits, including “End Transmission” and “Excuse Me,” ending their set with the message “Love yourself before you love anything else.” Memphis May Fire debuted on stage at their very first show in Knoxville, which is a surprise since they are from just down the road in Nashville. Matty Mullins is a charismatic metalcore frontman, delivering screams and clean vocals throughout each song. They started with their latest single, “Virus,” along with songs from their latest album like “Carry On” and “This Light I Hold.” They concluded with “The Sinner.” Mullins is well-known for being open about his faith, and he delivered a message of hope that I think any fan could hold onto, no matter what they believe.

Sevendust took over from there, starting with their new song “Dirty” as steam blasted across the stage. I’ve been listening to Sevendust since I was a small child, so it’s always a treat to hear songs like “Waffle,” “Denial,” and “Enemy.” I wish they had played “Black” and “Decay,” but they did focus mostly on other older hits so I can’t complain much. They also played “Medicated,” which was recently released as a music video. The band was energetic through the whole show, with drummer Morgan Rose always providing crazy faces and poses. The crowd surfers and moshers also took over the audience, despite the stifling heat of the venue. After performing “Thank You” and leaving the stage, the band returned to play their encore, “Bitch” and “Face To Face.” The last time Sevendust made a stop in Knoxville, they were supporting Shinedown at a bigger venue in 2015, so it was definitely time for them to headline once again before The International closes. Lajon Witherspoon mentioned this during the show, saying “I heard this place is shutting down!” and promised fans that Sevendust would come back soon. This is definitely one of the most memorable shows to grace The International’s stage, even if it is one of the last.

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Category: Live Reviews, Photo Galleries