Shinedown

Three bands played that night. Black Stone Cherry, Coheed and Cambria and Shinedown. I love all 3 bands. The problem was that this venue was not meant for music. It’s an ice skating rink built for non-professional hockey teams. I don’t know if it was the bad acoustics or the decibel level they played at, but I couldn’t understand one word they were singing. If I hadn’t known the songs I would never have known what they were saying. Shinedown puts on an amazing show and I was so glad I got to see them. I would not go back to Hertz Arena in Estero, FL for any other concerts. I gave it 4 stars for that reason.

Shinedown put on such a great show! Best concert I’ve ever been to! But the security and vip staff need to communicate better! I purchased the top VIP package that came with a backstage tour, shinedown museum, early access and early merch. And they treat us all pretty poorly, first made us leave the venue after the tour. Then told us only vip 3 had early access and we had to wait for regular admission. And threatened to not let any of us in at all even when we showed them our passes and emails. One lady even said “why does it matter nobody can take your seats?” Paid way to much to be treated like that!

Every concert I've been to is better then the last concert which is un believable always be interacting with the crowd which I love that's how you know they are truly a great band and know how to put a show on.when I took my daughter to her first concert when she was 8 it just happened to be the mmr bbq with 3doors down and Shinedown,and Nickelback with a few other bands but we've been to 3 other Shinedown concerts the last one being our favorite carnival of madness we thought we went to the wrong venue cause it looked like all circus performers it took me a minute to figure that one out (Carnival of Madness) all the performers we had a good laugh with that one she's only 11 at that time always a good concert keep up the good work and you guys will always pack them in Thank You!!!!

I thought that this was the best concert I had ever saw Shinedown's songs are just pure and well made they are great for a family my little six year old sister loves A Symptom of being human she'll to it all day my first Shinedown song was Sympton of being human they knew exactly how to entertain the crowd the set was awesome I also saw Theory of a deadman on that same concert and I like that Brent Smith is so caring for his fans he'll say the most endearing things he cares more about his band mates and his fans instead of himself you don't really see that in most rock musicians today I'm seeing them for my second time with Bush and Morgan Wade in Fort Worth. Brent Smith you are and incredible singer, Zach Myers you are my favortie guitarist, Eric Bass your are a talented musician rock on, and Barry Kerch you are a awesome drummer I always like seeing pictures of your drum kits. Rock on

Papa Roach was Awesome. Shinedowns Sound guys tried to be so loud that it distorted to much. Too much bass, Too much bass in the bass drum, not enough guitar. We sat right behind the sound techs, and they couldn't notice? On the Quiet songs, it was fine. The vocals had to much echo in it. We seen them before and that show was alot better than this one. They should have had the sound techs from Papa Roach do their show. Many were disappointed with the sound of shinedown. Sorry guys just being honest. Maybe that's why Shinedown took too much time in between songs. Papa Roach was so Awesome that maybe that's why Shinedowns techs was trying to be louder and out do Papa Roach. Well guys you failed. Rather disappointed.

Shinedown/Papa Roach: 9/26/23 “With the Summer outdoor concert season winding down to its conclusion my final show at CCNB’s Heritage Park Amphitheater was sure to end in a blaze! It was my second time seeing the band from Jacksonville Florida in 508 days and my first time seeing Papa Roach LIVE. I bought my ticket the day prior to the show as the band ran a flash $25 all in sale to fill in any unsold gaps in the reserved sections. Guessing on the code I landed 20 rows back from center stage, a seat that would have cost $98 if I had completed my transaction at any other time. About a week prior to the event the venue which has been facing tough criticism lately made an announcement that lawn chairs and blankets would not be allowed. Seeing their prior LIVE performance at the Bilo Center, I suspected that part of the reasoning might have to do with ‘1-2-3 Jump’ —the lead into to ‘Enemies’. Bon Secours had posted a public service announcement on social media immediately prior to the performance for everyone to watch out for one another in the pit, anticipating that things could tend to get a bit animated. Tuesday evening was a different leg of the same ‘Revolutions Live Tour’ I had seen, however it turned out vastly different to my surprise, particularly with the song selections, a half dozen or so titles being swapped in and out. Simpsonville was exactly the halfway point of the band’s Sept/Oct leg, positioned in between their Newark and Atlanta dates, and the band was two days rested. This event was also outdoors verses my prior indoor experience leaving the question, what would become of the flames, explosions, strobes, light bars, video walls, piano riser, and 45 degree angle pivoting lighting rigs which were raised and lowered by cables? Simpsonville does not come equipped for big productions and it was the first venue of this leg that was basically uncovered and bare bones. Trusting the band would not let down I proceeded with confidence! My view of the stage this time revealed the same lighting rigs and illuminated backdrop with the Planet Zero logo partially hidden behind the opener’s set, a 3 step riser with the drum kit positioned in the center with dual drumheads with bear head images, their mouths wide open and teeth exposed. The eye catcher from the get go was a piano suspended near the top of the amphitheater ceiling stage right. The band formed in 2001 still features Brent Smith 45 (vocals) and Barry Kerch (drums) since the very beginning, with Zach Myers (guitar) and Eric Bass (a Charleston native and resident on bass) since ’08. With 7 studio albums, 31 charted singles including 18 number ones and with all of their singles reaching at least number five on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Chart the set was sure to include a number of the big ones. Choosing much better support on this leg than the former, the Canadian heavy metal band Spiritbox from Victoria British Columbia took the stage at 6:40 p.m. We early birders all got our proverbial worms enjoying a 30 minute / 7 song set featuring some of the most unique vocals in rock and roll from Courtney LaPlante and her death growl. Thanking the early attenders and likening themselves to a hot dog band (i.e. the band you go to the concession stand while they open), the four person’s band performance was anything but. After a quick twenty minute stage turn Papa Roach formed in 1993 from Vacaville California took the stage at precisely 7:29 p.m. to an audio recording of Hank William’s ‘Hey Good Lookin’. Beginning their 1 hour long / 13 song set with 2001’s #16 ‘Between Angels And Insects’ the alternative metal band drew from their entire 11 studio album career with the exception of ‘Old Friends From Young Years’. All my fears concerning a sub-par visual production were abated quickly after seeing Papa Roach’s stage set with a large LED screen covering the entire riser in the background. The screen displayed various visuals during the performance but the one of note was a giant silhouette of a black roach lying on his back over a white background prior to the band taking the stage. Coby D**k (aka Jacoby Shaddix) led the charge with a shout out, ‘South Carolina, let’s f****n do this’. Wasting no time, ‘Kill The Noise’ a 2021 US Main #1 was next in line. ‘Let me see you bang your heads’ Coby cried prior to the opening notes of ‘Getting Away With Murder’. Coby continued, ‘Thanks for showing out to this rock and roll show, this connection right here it feels good you know, what we got going on right now you know, I live for that right there for real’. ‘Cut The Line’ a song from their newest album made its way into the set list unexpectedly. ‘Where’s the mosh pit?’, Coby looked around as he prepared to run through the crowd up the right side isle during ‘To Be Loved’. ‘You wanna get this place jumping?… now South Cackalacky do not talk about it you gotta be about it, this one right here’s called “Firestarter”’, it was a real crowd rouser. With the message ‘SUICIDE CAN BE PREVENTED’ displayed on the screen ‘Leave The Light On’ from 2022’s ‘Ego Trip’ was preceded by a mental health public service announcement. A portion of concert proceeds were to be donated to the ‘Talk Away The Dark’ campaign and the song was dedicated to Jacoby’s dad, a Vietnam Vet who left home when he was eight. After years, the frontman of the band finally made peace with him. Roach showed no signs of letting down energy-wise the entire hour as they moved all across the stage, jumping up and down and communicating visually with the audience. Shaddix did however pause briefly for a self ‘gratitude check’. With an organ playing in the background prior to 2004’s #4 ‘Scars’. he began his list. ’I’m grateful… to authentically connect with people through music’; ‘our music is a hand reaching into the darkness to drag em out of it’; ’I got a relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ’; ‘I ain’t afraid to say that’; ‘I stand on this stage sober from alcohol for almost twelve years’; ‘that I got men and women that got my back through that sobriety’; ’we got some of the most awesome f*****g fans in the world right here in Simpsonville’! ‘Help’ and ‘Last Resort’ ended the set as the band left the stage to a chant of ‘Papa Roach, Papa Roach, Papa Roach….’ It was another rather quick stage turn, as all that had to be done was to remove Papa Roach’s set from the forefront of Shinedown’s. During the half hour break I took a quick walk all the way to the back corners of the lawn section, the amphitheater grounds were completely packed! The lights went down at precisely 9 p.m. to a recording of ‘2184’ the opening instrumental from the album ‘Planet Zero’. The illuminated double video panels parted from the center as the band in silhouette emerged, first Brent, then the others, Brent shouting ‘Let’s Go’. ‘Diamond Eyes’ a 2020 US Main #1 opened the 19 song / hour and fifty minute set beginning and ending with an explosion of sparklers. Turns out it WAS a big production, getting in early gave the band opportunity for a FULL set up! ‘Dead Don't Die’ a 2023 release followed. The piano lowered from the ceiling on cables the first of three times for 2013’s ‘I'll Follow You’.‘ ‘Ladies and Gentlemen we know you coulda done anything you wanted to tonight. We’re in your house, we’re in your city, we’re in your town. Ladies and Gentlemen it is a privilege and a pleasure to be here tonight thank you all so very much for showing up.’ Next I experienced only my second ever artist led full audience meet-and-greet, turning left, then right, all over the crowd were handshakes, fist bumps and knuckles, Brent leading the charge from the stage by example. It was about to get heavy as ‘State Of My Head’ and ‘Devil’ followed, the stage illuminated amidst flames of fire! ‘I’m gonna be honest with you, there’s been a lot of great audiences on this tour, a lot of good ones, but they haven’t been South Carolina so I’m gonna ask you, did you bring your sing voice with you tonight?’ While the entire set of lighting rigs lowered to just above the band members heads the audience (who stood on their feet for both bands entire sets) all sang along to 2003’s #3 ‘45’. The time came for ‘Enemies’ 1-2-3 jump. ‘We didn’t go all the way into the South town to not make this a monumental evening, Ladies and Gentlemen I think we should make a moment, don’t you?’ Brent brought out the band’s video creator Sanjay to film the experience as everyone young and old jumped on cue in unison! ‘Ladies and Gentlemen make a fist, raise em up… hold, hold, GO’ intro’d 2009’s #1 ‘Sound Of Madness’ with every light on stage moving about every which way but loose. Brent introduced Eric Bass on piano prior to ‘A Symptom Of Being Human’. ‘Ladies and Gentlemen one of your own born and raised in Charleston South Carolina.’ ‘He is an extraordinary human being on so many levels… the day that Eric came into my, Zach’s, and Barry’s life, and this band, was one of the most great, wonderful and monumental moments of all time for Shinedown.’ He informed us how Eric had engineered, mixed and produced their last two albums then gave a shout out to Eric’s wife, mother, sisters, and whole family which were present in attendance. Every cell phone flashlight and lighter in the audience came out at the intro of the 2023 release. An audio clip of Casey Kasem on radio announcing the number one song in all the land for three weeks in a row back in 2008 preceded ‘Second Chance’. Brent who had performed with bronchitis last time he was in the Upstate and struggled during the song proved himself at the top of his vocal game tonight. Brent took a backseat giving Zach the floor, Zach commenting, ‘This is the best South Carolina show we’ve ever done, ever, in the history of ever.’ An acoustic cover of Jimmy Eat World’s ‘The Middle’ preceded featuring Zach Myers & Eric Bass on main vocals and acoustic guitar. How strange it was for me to hear the song knowing my next show was the following evening was Jimmy Eat World performing the number one themselves. ‘Daylight / Get Up’ a 2018 #1 followed and ‘Planet Zero was also thrown in the mix. Their cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ‘Simple Man was performed intimately with Smith and Myers’s together on the walkway. Mid-song Smith turned the microphone over to us to fill in the vocals challenging us with, ‘It’s all yours’. Then one more time the stage illuminated all in flames for 2019’s #1 ‘Monsters’. Closing in on the 11 p.m. curfew Smith shouted, ‘What do you say South Carolina, one more for the road?’ as ‘Cut The Cord’ completed the set without encore. The song ended in a sonic six explosion blaze that Im sure shook all of the condominiums nearby. Drummer Barry Kerch who has disagreed with more specialized genres being ascribed to the band has gone on record stating, ‘We're just a rock 'n' roll band’, and they proved that this evening. Folks this WAS rock and roll, but it wasn’t just rock and roll, it was rock and roll with a message, a message of hope by both headliners —a hope to be experienced!” Review and photo by DAve (Concert #822-824)

Seventh time seeing Shinedown and our closest view from the 4th row. We usually see Shinedown with our daughter as they see her favorite band but she couldn’t attend. We waited til the day of the show to buy tickets and decided to splurge and get these premium seats. So glad we did. It’s awesome being so close that you can see the band sweating and facial expressions. Shinedown was just as awesome as every other time we’ve seen them. Brent is a true performer. Zach and Eric are equally as talented and play to the crowd. Barry is just awesome. Seems like he is the instigator and always looking to agitate the others. Phenomenal show. Lights, pyrotechnics and fireballs galore. Bringing on the instrument techs was also a cool gesture and of course there’s Sanjay. If you haven’t seen Shinedown you’re missing out. Go see them.

Great 2 hour intimate set at the Hard Rock! I already saw them on this tour in Milwaukee and had to see it again. The setlist was the same I think but a great setlist nonetheless. I'd love to hear more of the Planet Zero record but I understand they really do have so many great songs. Even with 2 hours, tough to fit them all in. It was cool to seem in an arena and then in a club setting in the span of 3 months. And they still brought the pyro and fire to this smaller venue! Almost didn't go cause tix were so pricey for 1 band but glad I did. And this venue is one of my fave to catch a show, great sound quality. Made the 1 hr 15 min drive from Chicago in rush hour Friday traffic and it was worth it! 🤘 Shinedown doesn't disappoint!

Shinedown was awesome, as always! The opener for the show was From Ashes to New, and they did a great job in pumping up the audience. Next up was Three Days Grace. They worked the crowd like veterans and played some of their most liked songs. Shinedown took the stage with a vengeance! They gave no quarter and expected none from the fans. The energy they threw at their fans radiated back to them by the crowd. They know how to put on a show! From the rich balanced sound, the pyrotechnics, lights, and of course the music. Brent let the crowd know that one dollar from every ticket was going to suicide prevention!! These guys are the real deal! If you get the chance. Go see them!!!!!

This was not a good concert, nor a great concert, but was an absolutely Amazing outstanding concert, Both Shinedown (wish they had a meet and great) and Three day's grace made my night and it was unbelievable, I'm super glad I chose to go, it was healing and just what I needed to brighten my spirit, I added the picture of me meeting Three Day's Grace to this review, 5 stars is defiantly not enough for this rating, will go see them again when they come back through, thank you for the awesome concert and time and the awareness you bring to the problems I and others deal wit every day. Best wishes, Safe travels, and God bless.

There should be more stars to select. Hope y'all didn't mind my synching up artistically with you last night ... Didn't plan on the guy to the left of me handing me his glow sticks and saying, "lets see what you can do with these." So, I released my fears and insecurities. Let my authenticity, love for music and the band take flight. Replying with out words and for the first time gave 0 fcks what people would think and do what I do behind closed door and well just give it name now, 😈 Blue Light Sophia Energy Tribal Fusion Intuitive Interpretive ONE With Self and Spirit Transmutation Dance. My heart and soul soared to new heights. Thank you guys for a night I will never forget!

“Shinedown (self described as ‘pure rock’) is one of a few 2000’s rock bands that make me still believe quality music can still be produced. Entering the arena and getting a glimpse of the stage I got myself ready for an amazing visual experience, and that it was: flames, explosions, strobes, light bars, video walls, a piano riser, pivoting lighting rigs to 45 degree angles raised and lowered by cables. During band member intros we were informed that Zach Myers himself (guitarist) was stage designer. The pyrotechnics were intense, they obviously have to know exactly where to stand… watch your tape offs and ‘x’ marks! The band entered on stage walking side by side from rear to front backlit in silhouette as if they were going to take a final bow. Brett announced, ‘Did you bring your dancing shoes tonight? Well let’s get to it!’ At the song break I experienced my first ever artist led rock n roll meet-and-greet, turning left, then right, all around were handshakes, fist bumps and knuckles. I needed that as the person sitting next to me photobombed a nearly perfect full video by getting up to pee. I could only grin and take it. Next was a passionate intro to ‘Get Up’, from Brent Smith assuring the audience, ‘You are necessary, original, and you have a 100 percent have a purpose!’ Ticket holders had received a notification from the venue earlier, ‘GVL, look out for each other in the pit’, well this was a first for me and I didn’t quite understand it until the ‘1-2-3 Jump’ intro to ‘Enemies’. There it was, pure energy and bodies moving everywhere! The theme of the band’s music to me has been ’overcoming adversity with positivity’ and it was no different last evening as singer Brent Smith shared with us that this very much could have been a cancellable show as he performed the full 2 hour set with Bronchitis. As he sang, so it was, ‘Don't sell yourself short, you might be bulletproof’. The set list itself was well designed, let’s face it with new album material and 29 top 5 songs, one has to be creative in order to please an audience in general. There was a huge sing-a-long to ‘Simple Man’, Brent commenting back, ‘You might possibly be the best crowd on this tour!’ The evening began with two opening artists, Diamante, and The Pretty Reckless, both were energetic and musically talented, but neither were particularly moving. All in all, it was memorable evening in Greenville for sure!” by DAve (Concert #647)

Shinedown blew the crowd away! Myself included! I knew they would be incredible live based on what I’ve heard from other fans and the amazing music they’ve put out over the years. Being the fist time I’ve ever seen them I can honestly say this is one of the very best performances I’ve seen in my entire 32 years of life! I’ve wanted to see them for many years and I’m so very happy and proud that I have been a part of this experience! This band had more positive messages and energy than any other band I’ve ever seen! They really make you feel like special as an individual. They make you feel like part of their family! A band that calls their fans and audiences their boss and actually plays the songs they want to hear live! They had such an amazing and unique set list. Their energy onstage is like no other. If for some odd reason you don’t like this band you absolutely HAVE to or won’t have any other choice than to like them after witnessing their live performance. 🤘✨🐍❤️

This was the 4th time I've seen shinedown in my life, they always put on top notch shows, this time they put alot of time and money in to stage production! That stage show compared to a Iron Maiden show, it was that good! Amazing setlist top to bottom, I loved the new single daylight and the other 2 songs off planet zero, I'm so excited for that album! Shinedown delivers every time, also glad did a tribute to Taylor Hawkins by playing wheels by foo fighters and dicating simple man! One of the best live bands today also so much energy a band that can bring me to my knees because I'm overcomed with emotion! Also first time at the Spokane arena in 2 years been so long, definitely seen some badass show at this place! Shinedown family rock on!🤘🤘🤘

This was easily one of the best concerts I’ve ever been to maybe even THE best. It was the first time I’d seen Shinedown live and they blew any expectations I had into orbit. The sheer mastery of crowd control that Brent (lead singer) wields is truly humbling. At one point he gave a speech about what a rock concert should look like and told us to jump on a count of 3, I was barely on the floor after that. Brent isn’t afraid to talk directly to the audience and it only adds to the experience. Brent clearly shows his personality and it only made me want to listen to every song they ever played, which I did the next morning. The opening song was “Cut The Cord” and that was easily the best song they could have opened with. They played My personal favorite song “45” and i haven’t been able to get it out of my head since (it’s been 3 days). At the end of the night they called for a moment of silence in respect for those who lost on 9/11, during which some p***k decided to scream something, and then they played the only song that fits after a moment of silence “simple man”. The best moment of the night though was the closer “Sound Of Madness” the energy that engulfed the entire venue was insane. As a whole the concert oozed with organized showmanship and pure love of music.

Bad Wolves = 👍 Great Opening Band, Wonderful Stage Presence Starset = 👍 Creative Performance, Vocals we’re Spotty but overall Fun and Enjoyable Shinedown = 👍👍👍 Absolutely incredible. They took over the room and the crowd from the moment they came out til they left. Every member of the band was clearly having a great time. Five Finger Death Punch = 👎👎👎 To be clear, I’ve never been a huge fan of FFDP. Going into this show however, I was hoping that a great live performance from them would change that; that didn’t happen. The stage design, presence, and actual music from the band sounded great. The main issue comes from the vocalist, Ivan Moody. From the FFDP songs I’ve listened to in the past, it’s clear that the guy is talented and has a unique voice but his performance here showed nothing of that. I, along with many other attendees, left around 4 songs into FFDP’s performance.

This concert was the best ones I've ever been to. Shinedown has so many amazing songs that hits my soul and what has happened to my husband and I and how we didn't realize we were hurting our boys the most when our marriage started to fall apart. We Are Separated now and shinedown saved my soul and got me up and pushing forward. They know how to get to people's hearts and put such an amazing show on for us! I am planning to get VIP tickets next time they come back so I can have my 19 son met them. My son has natural talent for music. Self taught electronic guitar, Bass, drums, keyboard and want to learn mandolin next. He is working on his vocals. This would be the best concert for him! Cant wait to see shinedown again!!!

I love these guys and saw them in Southampton (UK) a few weeks ago and they were ace. The issue wasn’t them on the night but more the venue, we spent a fortune on food in HOB to get let in early but instead of 7 it ended up being 8+ and they didn’t come on until 9 and the venue was jammed solid. We spent over $300 on the tickets as we brought our kids who are big fans (and couldn’t see them in the UK due to the over 14 rule) but given the crowd and venue (low ceilings, awkward steps and columns everywhere) the kids couldn’t see much and due to the late start they were flaking out by just after 10. All in all a very expensive night for what was 1 hour of live music, we still love the band but I think we’ll stick to the airier and better organised (and cheaper) UK venues in the future!

Three bands played that night. Black Stone Cherry, Coheed and Cambria and Shinedown. I love all 3 bands. The problem was that this venue was not meant for music. It’s an ice skating rink built for non-professional hockey teams. I don’t know if it was the bad acoustics or the decibel level they played at, but I couldn’t understand one word they were singing. If I hadn’t known the songs I would never have known what they were saying. Shinedown puts on an amazing show and I was so glad I got to see them. I would not go back to Hertz Arena in Estero, FL for any other concerts. I gave it 4 stars for that reason.

Shinedown put on such a great show! Best concert I’ve ever been to! But the security and vip staff need to communicate better! I purchased the top VIP package that came with a backstage tour, shinedown museum, early access and early merch. And they treat us all pretty poorly, first made us leave the venue after the tour. Then told us only vip 3 had early access and we had to wait for regular admission. And threatened to not let any of us in at all even when we showed them our passes and emails. One lady even said “why does it matter nobody can take your seats?” Paid way to much to be treated like that!

Every concert I've been to is better then the last concert which is un believable always be interacting with the crowd which I love that's how you know they are truly a great band and know how to put a show on.when I took my daughter to her first concert when she was 8 it just happened to be the mmr bbq with 3doors down and Shinedown,and Nickelback with a few other bands but we've been to 3 other Shinedown concerts the last one being our favorite carnival of madness we thought we went to the wrong venue cause it looked like all circus performers it took me a minute to figure that one out (Carnival of Madness) all the performers we had a good laugh with that one she's only 11 at that time always a good concert keep up the good work and you guys will always pack them in Thank You!!!!

I thought that this was the best concert I had ever saw Shinedown's songs are just pure and well made they are great for a family my little six year old sister loves A Symptom of being human she'll to it all day my first Shinedown song was Sympton of being human they knew exactly how to entertain the crowd the set was awesome I also saw Theory of a deadman on that same concert and I like that Brent Smith is so caring for his fans he'll say the most endearing things he cares more about his band mates and his fans instead of himself you don't really see that in most rock musicians today I'm seeing them for my second time with Bush and Morgan Wade in Fort Worth. Brent Smith you are and incredible singer, Zach Myers you are my favortie guitarist, Eric Bass your are a talented musician rock on, and Barry Kerch you are a awesome drummer I always like seeing pictures of your drum kits. Rock on

Papa Roach was Awesome. Shinedowns Sound guys tried to be so loud that it distorted to much. Too much bass, Too much bass in the bass drum, not enough guitar. We sat right behind the sound techs, and they couldn't notice? On the Quiet songs, it was fine. The vocals had to much echo in it. We seen them before and that show was alot better than this one. They should have had the sound techs from Papa Roach do their show. Many were disappointed with the sound of shinedown. Sorry guys just being honest. Maybe that's why Shinedown took too much time in between songs. Papa Roach was so Awesome that maybe that's why Shinedowns techs was trying to be louder and out do Papa Roach. Well guys you failed. Rather disappointed.

Shinedown/Papa Roach: 9/26/23 “With the Summer outdoor concert season winding down to its conclusion my final show at CCNB’s Heritage Park Amphitheater was sure to end in a blaze! It was my second time seeing the band from Jacksonville Florida in 508 days and my first time seeing Papa Roach LIVE. I bought my ticket the day prior to the show as the band ran a flash $25 all in sale to fill in any unsold gaps in the reserved sections. Guessing on the code I landed 20 rows back from center stage, a seat that would have cost $98 if I had completed my transaction at any other time. About a week prior to the event the venue which has been facing tough criticism lately made an announcement that lawn chairs and blankets would not be allowed. Seeing their prior LIVE performance at the Bilo Center, I suspected that part of the reasoning might have to do with ‘1-2-3 Jump’ —the lead into to ‘Enemies’. Bon Secours had posted a public service announcement on social media immediately prior to the performance for everyone to watch out for one another in the pit, anticipating that things could tend to get a bit animated. Tuesday evening was a different leg of the same ‘Revolutions Live Tour’ I had seen, however it turned out vastly different to my surprise, particularly with the song selections, a half dozen or so titles being swapped in and out. Simpsonville was exactly the halfway point of the band’s Sept/Oct leg, positioned in between their Newark and Atlanta dates, and the band was two days rested. This event was also outdoors verses my prior indoor experience leaving the question, what would become of the flames, explosions, strobes, light bars, video walls, piano riser, and 45 degree angle pivoting lighting rigs which were raised and lowered by cables? Simpsonville does not come equipped for big productions and it was the first venue of this leg that was basically uncovered and bare bones. Trusting the band would not let down I proceeded with confidence! My view of the stage this time revealed the same lighting rigs and illuminated backdrop with the Planet Zero logo partially hidden behind the opener’s set, a 3 step riser with the drum kit positioned in the center with dual drumheads with bear head images, their mouths wide open and teeth exposed. The eye catcher from the get go was a piano suspended near the top of the amphitheater ceiling stage right. The band formed in 2001 still features Brent Smith 45 (vocals) and Barry Kerch (drums) since the very beginning, with Zach Myers (guitar) and Eric Bass (a Charleston native and resident on bass) since ’08. With 7 studio albums, 31 charted singles including 18 number ones and with all of their singles reaching at least number five on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Chart the set was sure to include a number of the big ones. Choosing much better support on this leg than the former, the Canadian heavy metal band Spiritbox from Victoria British Columbia took the stage at 6:40 p.m. We early birders all got our proverbial worms enjoying a 30 minute / 7 song set featuring some of the most unique vocals in rock and roll from Courtney LaPlante and her death growl. Thanking the early attenders and likening themselves to a hot dog band (i.e. the band you go to the concession stand while they open), the four person’s band performance was anything but. After a quick twenty minute stage turn Papa Roach formed in 1993 from Vacaville California took the stage at precisely 7:29 p.m. to an audio recording of Hank William’s ‘Hey Good Lookin’. Beginning their 1 hour long / 13 song set with 2001’s #16 ‘Between Angels And Insects’ the alternative metal band drew from their entire 11 studio album career with the exception of ‘Old Friends From Young Years’. All my fears concerning a sub-par visual production were abated quickly after seeing Papa Roach’s stage set with a large LED screen covering the entire riser in the background. The screen displayed various visuals during the performance but the one of note was a giant silhouette of a black roach lying on his back over a white background prior to the band taking the stage. Coby D**k (aka Jacoby Shaddix) led the charge with a shout out, ‘South Carolina, let’s f****n do this’. Wasting no time, ‘Kill The Noise’ a 2021 US Main #1 was next in line. ‘Let me see you bang your heads’ Coby cried prior to the opening notes of ‘Getting Away With Murder’. Coby continued, ‘Thanks for showing out to this rock and roll show, this connection right here it feels good you know, what we got going on right now you know, I live for that right there for real’. ‘Cut The Line’ a song from their newest album made its way into the set list unexpectedly. ‘Where’s the mosh pit?’, Coby looked around as he prepared to run through the crowd up the right side isle during ‘To Be Loved’. ‘You wanna get this place jumping?… now South Cackalacky do not talk about it you gotta be about it, this one right here’s called “Firestarter”’, it was a real crowd rouser. With the message ‘SUICIDE CAN BE PREVENTED’ displayed on the screen ‘Leave The Light On’ from 2022’s ‘Ego Trip’ was preceded by a mental health public service announcement. A portion of concert proceeds were to be donated to the ‘Talk Away The Dark’ campaign and the song was dedicated to Jacoby’s dad, a Vietnam Vet who left home when he was eight. After years, the frontman of the band finally made peace with him. Roach showed no signs of letting down energy-wise the entire hour as they moved all across the stage, jumping up and down and communicating visually with the audience. Shaddix did however pause briefly for a self ‘gratitude check’. With an organ playing in the background prior to 2004’s #4 ‘Scars’. he began his list. ’I’m grateful… to authentically connect with people through music’; ‘our music is a hand reaching into the darkness to drag em out of it’; ’I got a relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ’; ‘I ain’t afraid to say that’; ‘I stand on this stage sober from alcohol for almost twelve years’; ‘that I got men and women that got my back through that sobriety’; ’we got some of the most awesome f*****g fans in the world right here in Simpsonville’! ‘Help’ and ‘Last Resort’ ended the set as the band left the stage to a chant of ‘Papa Roach, Papa Roach, Papa Roach….’ It was another rather quick stage turn, as all that had to be done was to remove Papa Roach’s set from the forefront of Shinedown’s. During the half hour break I took a quick walk all the way to the back corners of the lawn section, the amphitheater grounds were completely packed! The lights went down at precisely 9 p.m. to a recording of ‘2184’ the opening instrumental from the album ‘Planet Zero’. The illuminated double video panels parted from the center as the band in silhouette emerged, first Brent, then the others, Brent shouting ‘Let’s Go’. ‘Diamond Eyes’ a 2020 US Main #1 opened the 19 song / hour and fifty minute set beginning and ending with an explosion of sparklers. Turns out it WAS a big production, getting in early gave the band opportunity for a FULL set up! ‘Dead Don't Die’ a 2023 release followed. The piano lowered from the ceiling on cables the first of three times for 2013’s ‘I'll Follow You’.‘ ‘Ladies and Gentlemen we know you coulda done anything you wanted to tonight. We’re in your house, we’re in your city, we’re in your town. Ladies and Gentlemen it is a privilege and a pleasure to be here tonight thank you all so very much for showing up.’ Next I experienced only my second ever artist led full audience meet-and-greet, turning left, then right, all over the crowd were handshakes, fist bumps and knuckles, Brent leading the charge from the stage by example. It was about to get heavy as ‘State Of My Head’ and ‘Devil’ followed, the stage illuminated amidst flames of fire! ‘I’m gonna be honest with you, there’s been a lot of great audiences on this tour, a lot of good ones, but they haven’t been South Carolina so I’m gonna ask you, did you bring your sing voice with you tonight?’ While the entire set of lighting rigs lowered to just above the band members heads the audience (who stood on their feet for both bands entire sets) all sang along to 2003’s #3 ‘45’. The time came for ‘Enemies’ 1-2-3 jump. ‘We didn’t go all the way into the South town to not make this a monumental evening, Ladies and Gentlemen I think we should make a moment, don’t you?’ Brent brought out the band’s video creator Sanjay to film the experience as everyone young and old jumped on cue in unison! ‘Ladies and Gentlemen make a fist, raise em up… hold, hold, GO’ intro’d 2009’s #1 ‘Sound Of Madness’ with every light on stage moving about every which way but loose. Brent introduced Eric Bass on piano prior to ‘A Symptom Of Being Human’. ‘Ladies and Gentlemen one of your own born and raised in Charleston South Carolina.’ ‘He is an extraordinary human being on so many levels… the day that Eric came into my, Zach’s, and Barry’s life, and this band, was one of the most great, wonderful and monumental moments of all time for Shinedown.’ He informed us how Eric had engineered, mixed and produced their last two albums then gave a shout out to Eric’s wife, mother, sisters, and whole family which were present in attendance. Every cell phone flashlight and lighter in the audience came out at the intro of the 2023 release. An audio clip of Casey Kasem on radio announcing the number one song in all the land for three weeks in a row back in 2008 preceded ‘Second Chance’. Brent who had performed with bronchitis last time he was in the Upstate and struggled during the song proved himself at the top of his vocal game tonight. Brent took a backseat giving Zach the floor, Zach commenting, ‘This is the best South Carolina show we’ve ever done, ever, in the history of ever.’ An acoustic cover of Jimmy Eat World’s ‘The Middle’ preceded featuring Zach Myers & Eric Bass on main vocals and acoustic guitar. How strange it was for me to hear the song knowing my next show was the following evening was Jimmy Eat World performing the number one themselves. ‘Daylight / Get Up’ a 2018 #1 followed and ‘Planet Zero was also thrown in the mix. Their cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ‘Simple Man was performed intimately with Smith and Myers’s together on the walkway. Mid-song Smith turned the microphone over to us to fill in the vocals challenging us with, ‘It’s all yours’. Then one more time the stage illuminated all in flames for 2019’s #1 ‘Monsters’. Closing in on the 11 p.m. curfew Smith shouted, ‘What do you say South Carolina, one more for the road?’ as ‘Cut The Cord’ completed the set without encore. The song ended in a sonic six explosion blaze that Im sure shook all of the condominiums nearby. Drummer Barry Kerch who has disagreed with more specialized genres being ascribed to the band has gone on record stating, ‘We're just a rock 'n' roll band’, and they proved that this evening. Folks this WAS rock and roll, but it wasn’t just rock and roll, it was rock and roll with a message, a message of hope by both headliners —a hope to be experienced!” Review and photo by DAve (Concert #822-824)

Seventh time seeing Shinedown and our closest view from the 4th row. We usually see Shinedown with our daughter as they see her favorite band but she couldn’t attend. We waited til the day of the show to buy tickets and decided to splurge and get these premium seats. So glad we did. It’s awesome being so close that you can see the band sweating and facial expressions. Shinedown was just as awesome as every other time we’ve seen them. Brent is a true performer. Zach and Eric are equally as talented and play to the crowd. Barry is just awesome. Seems like he is the instigator and always looking to agitate the others. Phenomenal show. Lights, pyrotechnics and fireballs galore. Bringing on the instrument techs was also a cool gesture and of course there’s Sanjay. If you haven’t seen Shinedown you’re missing out. Go see them.

Great 2 hour intimate set at the Hard Rock! I already saw them on this tour in Milwaukee and had to see it again. The setlist was the same I think but a great setlist nonetheless. I'd love to hear more of the Planet Zero record but I understand they really do have so many great songs. Even with 2 hours, tough to fit them all in. It was cool to seem in an arena and then in a club setting in the span of 3 months. And they still brought the pyro and fire to this smaller venue! Almost didn't go cause tix were so pricey for 1 band but glad I did. And this venue is one of my fave to catch a show, great sound quality. Made the 1 hr 15 min drive from Chicago in rush hour Friday traffic and it was worth it! 🤘 Shinedown doesn't disappoint!

Shinedown was awesome, as always! The opener for the show was From Ashes to New, and they did a great job in pumping up the audience. Next up was Three Days Grace. They worked the crowd like veterans and played some of their most liked songs. Shinedown took the stage with a vengeance! They gave no quarter and expected none from the fans. The energy they threw at their fans radiated back to them by the crowd. They know how to put on a show! From the rich balanced sound, the pyrotechnics, lights, and of course the music. Brent let the crowd know that one dollar from every ticket was going to suicide prevention!! These guys are the real deal! If you get the chance. Go see them!!!!!

This was not a good concert, nor a great concert, but was an absolutely Amazing outstanding concert, Both Shinedown (wish they had a meet and great) and Three day's grace made my night and it was unbelievable, I'm super glad I chose to go, it was healing and just what I needed to brighten my spirit, I added the picture of me meeting Three Day's Grace to this review, 5 stars is defiantly not enough for this rating, will go see them again when they come back through, thank you for the awesome concert and time and the awareness you bring to the problems I and others deal wit every day. Best wishes, Safe travels, and God bless.

There should be more stars to select. Hope y'all didn't mind my synching up artistically with you last night ... Didn't plan on the guy to the left of me handing me his glow sticks and saying, "lets see what you can do with these." So, I released my fears and insecurities. Let my authenticity, love for music and the band take flight. Replying with out words and for the first time gave 0 fcks what people would think and do what I do behind closed door and well just give it name now, 😈 Blue Light Sophia Energy Tribal Fusion Intuitive Interpretive ONE With Self and Spirit Transmutation Dance. My heart and soul soared to new heights. Thank you guys for a night I will never forget!

“Shinedown (self described as ‘pure rock’) is one of a few 2000’s rock bands that make me still believe quality music can still be produced. Entering the arena and getting a glimpse of the stage I got myself ready for an amazing visual experience, and that it was: flames, explosions, strobes, light bars, video walls, a piano riser, pivoting lighting rigs to 45 degree angles raised and lowered by cables. During band member intros we were informed that Zach Myers himself (guitarist) was stage designer. The pyrotechnics were intense, they obviously have to know exactly where to stand… watch your tape offs and ‘x’ marks! The band entered on stage walking side by side from rear to front backlit in silhouette as if they were going to take a final bow. Brett announced, ‘Did you bring your dancing shoes tonight? Well let’s get to it!’ At the song break I experienced my first ever artist led rock n roll meet-and-greet, turning left, then right, all around were handshakes, fist bumps and knuckles. I needed that as the person sitting next to me photobombed a nearly perfect full video by getting up to pee. I could only grin and take it. Next was a passionate intro to ‘Get Up’, from Brent Smith assuring the audience, ‘You are necessary, original, and you have a 100 percent have a purpose!’ Ticket holders had received a notification from the venue earlier, ‘GVL, look out for each other in the pit’, well this was a first for me and I didn’t quite understand it until the ‘1-2-3 Jump’ intro to ‘Enemies’. There it was, pure energy and bodies moving everywhere! The theme of the band’s music to me has been ’overcoming adversity with positivity’ and it was no different last evening as singer Brent Smith shared with us that this very much could have been a cancellable show as he performed the full 2 hour set with Bronchitis. As he sang, so it was, ‘Don't sell yourself short, you might be bulletproof’. The set list itself was well designed, let’s face it with new album material and 29 top 5 songs, one has to be creative in order to please an audience in general. There was a huge sing-a-long to ‘Simple Man’, Brent commenting back, ‘You might possibly be the best crowd on this tour!’ The evening began with two opening artists, Diamante, and The Pretty Reckless, both were energetic and musically talented, but neither were particularly moving. All in all, it was memorable evening in Greenville for sure!” by DAve (Concert #647)

Shinedown blew the crowd away! Myself included! I knew they would be incredible live based on what I’ve heard from other fans and the amazing music they’ve put out over the years. Being the fist time I’ve ever seen them I can honestly say this is one of the very best performances I’ve seen in my entire 32 years of life! I’ve wanted to see them for many years and I’m so very happy and proud that I have been a part of this experience! This band had more positive messages and energy than any other band I’ve ever seen! They really make you feel like special as an individual. They make you feel like part of their family! A band that calls their fans and audiences their boss and actually plays the songs they want to hear live! They had such an amazing and unique set list. Their energy onstage is like no other. If for some odd reason you don’t like this band you absolutely HAVE to or won’t have any other choice than to like them after witnessing their live performance. 🤘✨🐍❤️

This was the 4th time I've seen shinedown in my life, they always put on top notch shows, this time they put alot of time and money in to stage production! That stage show compared to a Iron Maiden show, it was that good! Amazing setlist top to bottom, I loved the new single daylight and the other 2 songs off planet zero, I'm so excited for that album! Shinedown delivers every time, also glad did a tribute to Taylor Hawkins by playing wheels by foo fighters and dicating simple man! One of the best live bands today also so much energy a band that can bring me to my knees because I'm overcomed with emotion! Also first time at the Spokane arena in 2 years been so long, definitely seen some badass show at this place! Shinedown family rock on!🤘🤘🤘

This was easily one of the best concerts I’ve ever been to maybe even THE best. It was the first time I’d seen Shinedown live and they blew any expectations I had into orbit. The sheer mastery of crowd control that Brent (lead singer) wields is truly humbling. At one point he gave a speech about what a rock concert should look like and told us to jump on a count of 3, I was barely on the floor after that. Brent isn’t afraid to talk directly to the audience and it only adds to the experience. Brent clearly shows his personality and it only made me want to listen to every song they ever played, which I did the next morning. The opening song was “Cut The Cord” and that was easily the best song they could have opened with. They played My personal favorite song “45” and i haven’t been able to get it out of my head since (it’s been 3 days). At the end of the night they called for a moment of silence in respect for those who lost on 9/11, during which some p***k decided to scream something, and then they played the only song that fits after a moment of silence “simple man”. The best moment of the night though was the closer “Sound Of Madness” the energy that engulfed the entire venue was insane. As a whole the concert oozed with organized showmanship and pure love of music.

Bad Wolves = 👍 Great Opening Band, Wonderful Stage Presence Starset = 👍 Creative Performance, Vocals we’re Spotty but overall Fun and Enjoyable Shinedown = 👍👍👍 Absolutely incredible. They took over the room and the crowd from the moment they came out til they left. Every member of the band was clearly having a great time. Five Finger Death Punch = 👎👎👎 To be clear, I’ve never been a huge fan of FFDP. Going into this show however, I was hoping that a great live performance from them would change that; that didn’t happen. The stage design, presence, and actual music from the band sounded great. The main issue comes from the vocalist, Ivan Moody. From the FFDP songs I’ve listened to in the past, it’s clear that the guy is talented and has a unique voice but his performance here showed nothing of that. I, along with many other attendees, left around 4 songs into FFDP’s performance.

This concert was the best ones I've ever been to. Shinedown has so many amazing songs that hits my soul and what has happened to my husband and I and how we didn't realize we were hurting our boys the most when our marriage started to fall apart. We Are Separated now and shinedown saved my soul and got me up and pushing forward. They know how to get to people's hearts and put such an amazing show on for us! I am planning to get VIP tickets next time they come back so I can have my 19 son met them. My son has natural talent for music. Self taught electronic guitar, Bass, drums, keyboard and want to learn mandolin next. He is working on his vocals. This would be the best concert for him! Cant wait to see shinedown again!!!

I love these guys and saw them in Southampton (UK) a few weeks ago and they were ace. The issue wasn’t them on the night but more the venue, we spent a fortune on food in HOB to get let in early but instead of 7 it ended up being 8+ and they didn’t come on until 9 and the venue was jammed solid. We spent over $300 on the tickets as we brought our kids who are big fans (and couldn’t see them in the UK due to the over 14 rule) but given the crowd and venue (low ceilings, awkward steps and columns everywhere) the kids couldn’t see much and due to the late start they were flaking out by just after 10. All in all a very expensive night for what was 1 hour of live music, we still love the band but I think we’ll stick to the airier and better organised (and cheaper) UK venues in the future!