Godsmack & Staind – PNC Bank Arts Center – Saturday, July 29, 2023
Review & Photos by Lori Schneider (IG: @LoriSchneiderPhotography)
Godsmack brought their energetic and intense 2023 summer Best of Times World Tour to New Jersey on a hot, stormy night at the PNC Bank Arts Center along with support from Staind and Mix Master Mike. Following Mix Master Mike’s opening, the sky decided to open up and put on a lightning and thunderous show. Luckily for all in attendance there was only an approximate half-hour delay with all bands taking the stage as planned.
Staind is an American alternative rock/metal, post-grunge band from Springfield, Massachusetts, formed in 1995. The band members include founding member Aaron Lewis (lead vocals/rhythm guitar), Mike Mushok (lead guitar), Johnny April (bass/backing vocals) and Sal Giancarelli (drums).
Staind’s live shows showcase powerful vocals from lead singer Aaron Lewis and emotionally charged performances from all. Their concerts are known for their intense raw energy with an ability to connect with the audience through heartfelt lyrics. The band typically includes a mix of their popular hits as well as some of their more introspective and emotional songs.
Staind performed a 14-song set opening with “Lowest In Me”. Other songs performed included “Eyes Wide Open”, “Something to Remind You”, “Epiphany” (an Aaron Lewis acoustic solo), “So Far Away” and “It’s Been Awhile”.
Staind can be found online at www.staindofficial.com and www.aaronlewismusic.com and on Instagram @staindofficial and @aaronlewismusic.The night culminated with headliner Godsmack taking the stage opening with “When Legends Rise” accompanied by thunderous drum beats provided by Shannon Larkin. Known for their hard rock and metal sounds, Godsmack put on an energetic and intense performance on this hot and stormy night.
Formed in 1995 in Lawrence, Massachusetts, members include Sully Erna (lead vocals/guitar), Robbie Merrill (bass), Tony Rombola (lead guitar) and Shannon Larkin (drums). The hot and steamy night got even hotter with anticipated pyrotechnics on their third song “1000hp”.
Performing a 13-song set including “What About Me”, “Bulletproof”, “Surrender”, “Keep Away”, “Whatever” and a 2-song encore “Under Your Scars” and “I Stand Alone”. Godsmack definitely delivered with one of the best frontmen in the business!
Godsmack can be found online at www.godsmack.com and on Instagram @godsmack.
