Avenged Sevenfold – Prudential Center – Newark, NJ – March 31, 2024
Review & Photos by Lori Schneider (IG: @LoriSchneiderPhotography)
Avenged Sevenfold (also known as A7X) rounded out the Easter weekend bringing their ‘Life is But a Dream Tour’ to the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ on Sunday, 3/31/2024. The American heavy metal/alternative metal/hard rock/metalcore band formed in 1999 hailing from California, brought their diverse rock sound to the packed house igniting the venue and commanding the fan’s attention. From the moment of the first opening chords, guitar riffs, thunderous drums and soaring vocals, the crowd felt the unforgettable performance that was about to unfold.
Frontman M. Shadows led the charge with his commanding stage presence, effortlessly captivating the crowd with his dynamic vocals that seamlessly transitioned from melodic croons to fierce screams. Guitarists Synyster Gates and Zacky Vengeance dazzled with their virtuosic solos and synchronized riffage, trading blistering leads that sent shockwaves of excitement throughout the venue. Meanwhile, bassist Johnny Christ and drummer Brooks Wackerman laid down a solid foundation, driving the rhythm section with precision and intensity. Each song was accompanied by a visually stunning backdrop, ranging from ominous imagery to psychedelic animations, further immersing the audience in Avenged Sevenfold’s epic sonic universe.
What truly set this concert apart was the palpable connection between the band and their devoted fans. Whether sharing heartfelt anecdotes between songs or encouraging the crowd to raise their voices in unison, Avenged Sevenfold fostered a sense of camaraderie and unity that transcended the music itself immersing the crowd in A7X’s epic sonic universe.
Members of A7X include M. Shadows (Matthew Sanders – lead vocals), Zacky Vengeance (Zachary Baker – rhythm/lead guitar, backing vocals), Synyster Gates (Brian Haner Jr. – lead guitar, keyboards, backing vocals), Johnny Christ (Jonathan Seward – bass, backing vocals) and Brooks Wackerman (drums).
The setlist for the night included:
Game Over
Mattel
Afterlife
Hail to the King
We Love You
Shepherd of Fire
The Stage
Roman Sky
Blinded in Chains
Bat Country
Nobody
Nightmare
Unholy Confessions
Save Me
Cosmic
Opening support was provided by Sullivan King (American DJ and heavy metal musician) and Poppy (singer/songwriter and performance artist).
