102.9 THE BUZZ & BUDWEISDER PRESENTS:
BUDWEISER ONE NIGHT STAND WITH…
STAIND
CITY HALL
NOVEMBER 29, 2005
Recently, I was fortunate enough to be asked to review the Staind show at City Hall. This show is part of The Budweiser One Night Stand Concert Series in conjunction with our compatriots over at 102.9 The Buzz. This was a special show for Nashville due to the fact that it brings in a very popular group (Staind) to play at our newest rock venue (City Hall). This would be my first foray into City Hall; which most consider today’s version of our former stomping grounds, 328 Performance Hall (R.I.P.).
I arrived at the venue around 7:00p.m.to see a line of people that stretched almost completely around the building. For a city that is typically late arriving to most entertainment events, it was nice to see so many Nashvillians (and others) show up so early. It was even more enjoyable to know that local opening act, Ligion, would be playing for a packed house. The majority of The Buzz gang were there to emcee the event. Doogie, Zigs, Dagwood, & Russell. Sounds like a new twisted version of the Mickey Mouse Club. Anyway, onto the show review.
LIGION
Ligion came out to a very enthusiastic audience reception and launched into their standard set that included their usual assortment of strong songs that feature solid musicianship. Lead singer, Ligion was his usual charismatic self and stalked the stage like a pro. Guitarists Seth & June were very much “in the moment” combining some melodic playing with a tough exterior while bassist, Levi & drummer, Johannes rounded out the rhythm section impressively. Ligion were a natural choice to open up for Staind with their hook-laden, hard rock-tinged sound. The crowd embraced them and showed positive support for the hometown boys.
One couldn’t help but notice the arena sized lights set up on the backend of the stage. Once I saw those lights I knew we were in for a big show. The lights were scanning all over the place as Staind hit the stage and tore into the dark edgy track, ‘Falling’ off of their new CD, ‘Chapter V’. Drummer, Jon Wysocki had a big, brash sound coming from his drum kit as he pounded away throughout the evening; the consummate time-keeper for the band. Vocalist, Aaron Lewis flexed his emotional muscles as the band cruised through radio staples such as ‘So Far Away’, ‘For You’, and current hit ‘Right Here’. The guitar tone from bassist, Johnny April and guitarist, Mike Mushok filled City Hall with an edgy-warmth on this cold November evening. Lewis is one of the quietest, most introverted vocalist that I’ve seen for a band of this stature but it all changes once he starts telling his stories in Staind’s songs. The crowd shared in Lewis’ story during the hits, ‘For You’ & ‘Outside’ evoking a campfire-like sing-along between the band and the fans.
On a funny note (and I’m showing my age here), it’s so odd these days to see cell-phones with camera displays being raised above the crowd rather than cigarette lighters. I’ll get used to it but had to chuckle a bit seeing Lewis serenading a sea of cell phones. While the moodier previous hits were fun to hear transferred into a live setting, my favorite songs of Staind’s set were definitely the heaver tunes. ‘Paper Jesus’ was an absolute mother of a live song, garnering loads of appreciation from the metal head contingent in the audience. Staind ended their set on a heavy note with their breakthrough hit from years past, ‘Mudshovel’. This song sounds just as fresh and original as it did the first time I heard it so long ago.
It’s admirable to see Staind continue to succeed so many years after many of their contemporaries had contracted “one hit wonder disease”. They continue to craft worthwhile songs that are compatible for radio listeners without losing their dignity.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Overall, I was very happy with my experience at The Budweiser One Night Stand featuring Staind. City Hall is a spanking new venue with a great future ahead. I want to send out a HUGE THANK YOU to The Cromwell Group, Great Big Shows, and 102.9 The Buzz for their hard work in making sure Nashville continues to excel in the world of rock world.
Well, that’s all for now. Until next time, I’m out like parachute pants, the Macarena, and R. Kelly’s integrity.
Chris ‘Uncle Daddy Longlegs’ Czynszak
To reach Chris Czynszak, e-mail at:
cczynszak@nashvillerock.net