Review & Photography by Manny Manson for MPM
The famous Rock City in Nottingham, my second home, is buzzing and it’s not surprising as tonight we have a lineup that promises an unrelentingly brutal assault on the senses.
Four bands from the corners of hard rock, alternative metal, and nu-metal world, have gathered to deliver a night full of heavy riffs, raw energy, and impassioned vocals. Fans are pouring in from all directions, eager to catch Union Underground, Nonpoint, (həd)p.e., and SOiL as they bring their unique sounds and stories to the stage. Each band has carved a path through the rock and metal scene, leaving a stubborn mark with dedicated fans who’ve been there from the start along with newcomers ready to witness the action.
With Union Underground, Nonpoint, (həd)p.e., and SOiL on the bill, Rock City is primed for a night of high-energy performances that span decades of hard rock and metal evolution. The diverse styles of each band, from industrial metal to G-punk to groove-heavy rock, will give fans a taste of everything that makes this scene so enduring and beloved. Tonight, Nottingham belongs to these legends of rock and the devoted fans who have ventured out, once again on bath night.
Starting off the night, we have Union Underground, the Texas-born rockers whose sound straddles alternative metal and industrial rock with a rebellious twist. Formed in the late ’90s by Bryan Scott and Patrick Kennison, Union Underground gained fame with their 2000 debut album, “…An Education in Rebellion”, which resounded with fans for its raw edge and powerful sound. The album, propelled by hits like “Turn Me On ‘Mr. Deadman” and “Revolution Man,” went on to sell over half a million copies, instantly securing the band a dedicated fanbase.
The success of their music also made its way into mainstream wrestling culture, with Union Underground’s “Across the Nation” famously serving as the WWE’s ‘RAW’ theme song, entrenching them into the hearts of wrestling fans around the world. Their gritty, industrial sound became synonymous with hard-hitting moments, both in music and in the ring. Although they’ve only released a handful of EPs since their debut album, Union Underground’s style, a fierce fusion of industrial, nu-metal, and alternative rock, continues to attract a loyal following ready for a night of high energy and explosive riffs.
As the house lights dim, a smoky haze fills the stage, only to be cut by sharp strobes and brooding backlights that throw Union Underground into a silhouette of pure, industrial-metal power. It’s a scene you’d expect to find in the underbelly of a gritty, neon-lit Texas bar, and it’s exactly the kind of theatrical setting this band thrives in.
The band kicks off with “Drivel”, a thunderous opener that stomps in like an unwelcome brawler. Pulled from their breakout album “An Education in Rebellion” (2000), it’s packed with their signature crunch. Here, the mix of hard-hitting riffs and murky industrial influences grabs the crowd by the collar, shaking off any last-minute jitters. The track’s thick, almost mechanical pulse has a hypnotic effect, punctuated by Bryan Scott’s vocal delivery—half snarling, half chanting. You can feel the place heating up, fans raising their fists, some shouting along with that call-and-response energy. This song feels like a middle finger raised high, daring the crowd to match the band’s aggression.
Next comes “Killing Fly”, and the energy doubles down, like adding fuel to a raging fire. Another cut from “An Education in Rebellion”, the track has that unmistakable rawness. Scott prowls the stage like he’s got unfinished business with every inch of it, his voice dripping with venom, which drives the crowd’s frenzy even further. The lighting shifts to a red wash that feels part hellish, part Texas inferno, while the drums kick up to a near martial stomp. Each member is in full sync, ripping through the chorus as if it’s their battle cry. WWE fans would appreciate the song’s bruiser aesthetic—this is a track you could almost see Stone Cold Steve Austin walking out to, beer in hand, ready to raise hell.
When “South TX Deathride” kicks in, it’s all over. This track hits like a piledriver, riff-heavy and head-spinning, getting the crowd into an even wilder state. The song’s relentless pace embodies everything Union Underground does best—heavy, catchy, and unapologetic. The band’s Texan roots come out strong here, and you feel that no-holds-barred attitude in every riff. With fog cannons blasting, Scott’s voice cuts through the frenzy, and the fans are right there with him, roaring back every word. It’s pure, rebellious anarchy and would be right at home on a WWF SmackDown soundtrack. You can feel the electricity, the collective aggression channelled in one heavy, powerful moment.
Slowing things down for a brief, smouldering moment, they bring out “Bitter.” A deeper, darker groove fills the room, transforming the atmosphere into something tense and brooding. This track’s tone captures that raw, aching melancholy, showing that Union Underground doesn’t need to go full throttle to command the stage. Here, Scott’s vocals growl and simmer, pulling the audience in with each line. The lighting drops to blues and purples, adding a gritty, urban noir vibe to the performance, and it’s as though the crowd senses every beat of that slower, darker rhythm. It’s that moment in a wrestling match where the fighter takes a calculated pause, letting the tension build before diving back in.
Next up, “Faith Collapsing” hits like a missile, reigniting the high-energy intensity that Union Underground is known for. The song’s relentless riffing and gritty lyrics drive that classic blend of defiance and rebellion. Scott’s vocal delivery is cutting, with a venom that has the crowd feeding off his energy, fists pounding in time. This track, though one of their older hits, feels like a dedication to the diehards. The crowd erupts, shouting along, feeding off that adrenaline rush, and it’s as if each word is a mantra for everyone in the room. You half expect the Undertaker himself to make an appearance in the thick of it, so perfectly timed is the song’s dark power and raw energy.
Then comes the gut-punch track “Turn Me On ”Mr Deadman”.” There’s a collective thrill as this one kicks off, the crowd sensing that it’s time to bring out their full, pent-up aggression. Deadman is a song you could see accompanying The Rock as he strides into the ring, full of confidence and ready to lay down the law. The sound is crushing, the riffs heavy enough to vibrate your spine, with every note landing like a wrestling slam. The lights shift to an ominous green, casting eerie shadows across the stage, and the crowd’s roar only grows louder. Scott throws himself into the performance with a ferocity that’s utterly captivating, and for a moment, it feels like the crowd and band are moving as one, fully immersed in this high-octane communion.
The band saves the ultimate crowd-pleaser for last—the WWE RAW anthem, “Across the Nation.” This track has become a cultural touchstone for wrestling fans, and tonight it’s like we’re back in the heyday of RAW, with every WWE reference, chant, and memory hitting just as hard as the music. As soon as that opening riff blasts out, everyone is on their feet, ready to lose their minds. It’s a high-octane finisher that’s loaded with nostalgia and adrenaline, and Scott is giving it everything he’s got. The crowd is chanting, “Let’s get it on!” as the song builds to its climactic end, and the lights explode in a whirlwind of colour and smoke. It’s an epic, hard-hitting send-off that leaves everyone buzzing.
This was a set that wrestled with intensity, raw power, and defiance, qualities that Union Underground has always championed. For fans, it was nothing short of an unrelenting thrill ride, proving once again why this band belongs on stages that burn bright and loud.
Following Union Underground, Nonpoint will turn up the intensity with their brand of groove-laden metal. Formed in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 1997, Nonpoint’s journey began with “Separate Yourself,” their debut album that laid the groundwork for their sound. But it was their major-label debut, “Statement” (2000), that put them on the map, featuring the anthemic single “What a Day.” Since then, Nonpoint has maintained a strong presence with hits like “Bullet with a Name” from their 2005 release “To the Pain” and” Alive and Kicking.” Their music often centres on themes of resilience and struggle, drawing in fans who connect with the intensity of their lyrics and the raw power of their sound.
Over the years, they’ve released eleven albums, each evolving in sound but staying true to their roots in nu-metal and hard rock. Albums like “Vengeance” (2007) and “X” (2018) showcase Nonpoint’s groove-heavy riffs and powerful, shout-along choruses. Their fanbase is one of dedication and loyalty, appreciating Nonpoint’s continued energy, as well as their live performances that never fail to energise the crowd. With Elias Soriano’s commanding presence on vocals and the band’s signature mix of heavy rhythms and piercing guitars, they’ll bring an adrenaline-fueled set that fans can’t get enough of.
Rock City is alive tonight, buzzing with anticipation, well for all the bands it seems. Nonpoint, this Florida-born nu-metal powerhouse that’s been delivering a high-octane fusion of metal and hip-hop since the ‘90s. As the house lights dim, clouds of thick smoke start to rise, and the blue and purple stage lights slice through, adding an atmosphere that’s equal parts gritty as intense. The band steps out in matching Nonpoint tees—frontman Elias Soriano calls it their “band uniform”, and the crowd roars. There’s a unity here, a sense of tribe and loyalty, as they break into their first track.
“Breaking Skin” from their 2014 album The Return. As the first heavy riff slams you in the face, it’s obvious the energy is going to be thick and fast, letting us know what we’re in for, it’s going to be a gutsy ride. Soriano’s dreadlocks whip as he powers through the lyrics, capturing the song’s theme of fighting against one’s inner demons. The backlighting is fierce, casting his silhouette against the smoke, creating a stark, powerful image.
The crowd is already singing along, fists in the air, feeding off the intensity from the stage. “Breaking Skin” a battle cry, one that the crowd is more than ready to rally behind. With no pause, they roll into “Chaos and Earthquakes,” from 2018’s X. This track, once again, hits hard and fast, with Robb Rivera’s drumming driving the relentless pace. The lyrics resonate with the crowd, especially now, in a world that seems as turbulent as ever. Soriano’s voice is raw and powerful, a perfect fit for this heavy, grinding anthem. The red and blue lights pulse in rhythm, augmenting the chaotic feel of the track, and the crowd responds with a mix of headbanging and raised fists. It’s intense, aggressive, and cathartic, a reminder that sometimes we need a little chaos to clear the air.
Nonpoint switches gears slightly with “Victim,” bringing out a heavier, more brooding energy from their 2000 album Statement. Soriano’s vocal delivery is raw and charged, his dreadlocks whipping as he belts out the lyrics. There’s a deep connection here, everyone in the room feels the weight of the song’s themes of betrayal and resilience. The lighting shifts to a moody, almost ominous purple, setting the perfect backdrop as Rivera and guitarists Rasheed Thomas and Jaysin Zeilstra grind out that dark, unrelenting riff.
It’s a haunting, powerful moment, and the crowd seems to hang on every word, united in defiance against whatever they’ve each faced. As the familiar opening of “What A Day” another from their 2000 album Statement blares out, the crowd erupts. This track is vintage Nonpoint, a throwback to the days of rap-rock’s peak. The energy in the room is electric, there’s a perceptible excitement, a kind of throwback energy that ignites the crowd even more. Soriano is all over the stage, his dreads flying in every direction, while Thomas and bassist Adam Woloszyn thrash alongside him, adding to the sheer intensity of the moment. The crowd is in sync, jumping, singing, and reliving the early days of Nonpoint with a passion that doesn’t fade.
“Dodge Your Destiny,” from 2018’s album ‘X’, brings a heavier, groovier beat, there by demonstrating Nonpoint’s evolution over the years. Soriano’s voice is raw and emotive, like a punch to the gut, and the crowd feels every line. Rivera’s drumming takes centre stage, pounding out a rhythm that’s impossible to ignore. The green and red lights cast an eerie glow across the stage, amplifying the song’s dark, gritty vibe. It’s a crowd favourite, one that captures the tension and triumph that only a band like Nonpoint can convey. You can see it in the faces of the fans—they’re hanging on every word, fists raised, immersed in the sheer power of the music.
They crank up the energy again with “Ruthless,” a newer track from their 2021 EP Ruthless. This one hits like a freight train—hard, fast, and relentless. The heavy backlighting adds to the intensity, with Elias’s dreadlocks cutting through the smoke and lights, adding to the brutal, almost primal feel of the performance. The crowd is wild, shouting every line back to Soriano, each chorus hit feeling like a collective roar. Rivera’s drums drive the song’s massive energy, while Thomas and Woloszyn grind out the riffs with ferocious intensity.
This is Nonpoint at their heaviest and hardest, and the fans are eating it up. Next up is “Alive and Kicking” from To the Pain (2005), and the entire room feels like it’s on fire. This track is all about resilience, and Soriano’s delivery is filled with grit and determination. His dreadlocks are a whirlwind, adding to the visual chaos on stage. The lights go wild, casting the band in rapid flashes of white and blue, giving the performance a frenetic, almost cinematic feel. The crowd is beyond amped, they’re roaring, jumping, and giving back every bit of energy the band puts out. This song is a reminder of why Nonpoint is still here, still kicking, and still hitting harder than ever.
As the opening riff to the set finale, “Bullet with a Name” from To the Pain kicks in, you can feel the entire place go absolutely mental. This song has become an anthem not just for Nonpoint but for every-one of that era, who’s ever felt like they’re on the edge, taking aim at life’s challenges. The crowd knows every word, every beat, and they’re not holding back. Soriano prowls the stage like a beast, commanding every corner of the room, while Rivera’s drums hit like an earthquake. The heavy backlighting silhouettes the band against a wall of smoke, making the moment feel larger than life. This is the grand finale, and Nonpoint goes out with a bang, leaving everything on the stage. Nonpoint have just delivered a masterclass in intensity, unity, and raw power tonight, reminding us all why they’ve been an unbreakable force in the rock and metal scene for over two decades.
As the lights dim once again and the next act steps up, Rock City is about to be engulfed in the gritty, genre-defying sound of (həd)p.e. Known for pioneering a unique style they call “G-punk,” (həd)p.e. combines elements of punk, hip-hop, and metal, creating a style as unconventional as it is unforgettable. Formed in Huntington Beach, California, in 1994, (həd)p.e. rose to prominence with their self-titled debut album in 1997, which featured an edgy fusion of styles that set them apart from other bands in the scene.
Their breakout album, “Broke” (2000), is a cornerstone in the nu-metal world, with tracks like “Bartender” and “Killing Time” that became anthems of rebellion for a generation. Since then, they’ve released a staggering thirteen albums, including “Only in Amerika” (2004) and “Blackout” (2003), each one reinforcing their fearless approach to genre and sound. (həd)p.e.’s live shows are a celebration of the unconventional, with their fanbase—a diverse crowd from the rock, punk, and hip-hop worlds, coming together to revel in the chaos. Frontman Jared Gomes is known for his commanding stage presence, and when (həd)p.e. hits the stage, fans can expect a whirlwind of raw energy, bold lyrics, and a dynamic sound that’s nothing short of infectious.
Rock City is still buzzing tonight, and the anticipation is thick as the lights dim, casting a mix of blue and orange spots across the stage. Smoke rises, and the room feels electric—there’s a tangible vibe as we await (həd)p.e., the genre-defying masters of punk-rock fusion with hip-hop swagger, thrash riffs, and reggae breaks. Formed in the mid-’90s and still fronted by Jared Gomes, they’ve been serving up their own brand of G-punk for over two decades.
The crowd is ready for a night of raucous energy, and (həd)p.e. is more than ready to deliver, as they sort themselves out on the blue lit stage, they kick things off with “No Way Out” from Detox (2023), and it’s clear this is going to be one intense night. The opening riff cuts through the room like a knife, and as Jared steps into the smoky blue light, his voice roars through the venue.
The song’s heavy vibe fits the smoky atmosphere perfectly, with Jared’s vocals mixing grit and melody as he leans into the crowd. Fans are already singing along, fists raised, feeding off the raw energy as he screams out the defiant chorus. The band’s vibe is rebellious and heavy, setting the night ablaze from the start. Next up is “Rat Race” their second track from the Detox album (2023), and the crowd’s reaction is instantaneous. The blue lights shift into pulsating oranges, creating a high-energy visual to match the driving rhythm.
This one is all thrash and angst, with Jared’s vocal delivery cutting straight through as he spits out lyrics about society’s pressures. The bass thumps hard, and the guitars are thick and aggressive, giving everyone something to lose themselves in. The crowd is right there with him, feeling every word, shouting back as Jared prowls the stage with a swagger that shows he’s still at the top of his game.
This is quickly followed, and as the first notes of “Peer Pressure” from Back 2 Base X (2006) blast out, the room erupts. The blue and orange lights mix perfectly, creating a moody yet intense vibe that fits this song’s message about breaking free from societal expectations. Jared’s energy is infectious, he’s bouncing across the stage, his voice going from raspy to melodic, captivating everyone. The crowd surges with the beat, chanting along to the rebellious anthem.
This track is an excellent example of (həd)p.e.’s knack for blending genres, with hints of punk, hip-hop, and metal all mashed into one explosive track that keeps everyone on their toes. Moving on, the band cranks things up a notch with “Killing Time” from Broke (2000). The heavy, almost sludgy riff paired with Jared’s visceral delivery fill’s the venue and sets the tone. Smoke fills the stage, while blue spotlights focus on Jared, casting an eerie glow. The guitars are gritty and raw, blending perfectly with Jared’s intense vocals. The crowd feels every ounce of emotion, moshing along, as the song builds to a powerful crescendo. It’s moments like these that show just how well (həd)p.e. have been able to tap into raw emotion, blending it with their own heavy sound.
The visceral shenanigans continue with, From Back 2 Base X (2006), “Let’s Ride” it brings a heavy hip-hop vibe to the proceedings. The bass is thick and funky, while Jared’s smooth flow pulls the crowd in, building an almost anthemic energy. Blue lights pulse in time to the beat, while orange spots sweep across the stage. The crowd is bouncing, completely in sync with the groove. Jared’s performance feels almost hypnotic, a harking back to the band’s roots in blending rap and rock. There’s a sense of camaraderie in the room, a shared sense of rebellious joy as everyone chants along, fists pumping. Things get fierce with “Raise Hell” from Only in Amerika (2004).
Jared leads the crowd like a general rallying his troops. The lights intensify to deep orange, casting a fiery glow that matches the track’s unrelenting energy. Jared’s delivery is sharp and powerful, calling out to the crowd, who respond in kind. The guitars are relentless, tearing through the venue, while the drums hit like thunder. This track isn’t just music; it’s another call to arms, and the crowd answers, moshing and shouting with a fervour that makes Rock City feel like a battleground of sound and sweat.
When “Sophia” from Back 2 Base X (2006) begins, the room shifts into a more reflective, almost hypnotic vibe. The lights soften, creating a blue and purple haze across the stage as the song’s haunting melody fills the venue. Jared’s voice is raw and soulful, taking on a more vulnerable tone, and the crowd sways along. This track highlights the band’s depth and versatility, showing they can switch from brutal to beautiful without missing a beat.
There’s a reverence in the room, a shared respect for the band’s ability to tap into something deeply emotional. This is followed by a playful cover, “Smoke Two Joints” a cover by the band ‘The Toyes’, injects a sense of fun into the night. The crowd is instantly on board, and Jared’s delivery is laid-back, leaning into the reggae vibe of the track. The smoke on stage thickens as if to match the song’s theme, while blue and green lights give it an almost hazy, mellow atmosphere. The band is clearly having fun with this one, and the crowd responds with dancing and laughter, everyone embracing the relaxed vibe before things kick back into high gear.
When “Bartender” from Broke (2000) starts, the crowd goes wild. This is one of (həd)p.e.’s iconic tracks, and Jared knows it, he lets the audience sing the opening line, grinning as he steps into the orange spotlight. His voice is raw and powerful, the energy in the room reaching a fever pitch. Blue lights flash over the crowd, matching the beat, as everyone shouts the chorus back at the stage. This track’s blend of rock, hip-hop, and reggae perfectly encapsulates the (həd)p.e. vibe. The energy is pure, unfiltered, and electric, as they close out with “Renegade” from New World Orphans (2009), the band is going out with a bang.
The lights are a full assault of blue and orange, casting intense shadows across the smoke-filled stage. Jared’s vocals are fierce, each line delivered with a raw energy that the crowd mirrors back at him. The guitars shred, the bass rumbles, and the drums thunder, all coming together in a final act of defiance. The crowd is a frenzy, caught up in the moment, fists in the air, giving back every ounce of energy the band throws out. When the last note hits, Rock City is roaring, united once again, in its appreciation for the raw, rebellious energy that only (həd)p.e. can deliver. This was yet another masterclass in genre-bending, attitude, and relentless energy, a tribute to (həd)p.e.’s enduring legacy and the raw, unapologetic spirit of Rock City crowd.
Headlining this massive night of rock is SOiL, a band that’s built a name for themselves with their powerful mix of hard rock, alternative metal, and unwavering intensity. Formed in Chicago in 1997, SOiL’s rise to fame came with the release of their breakthrough album “Scars” in 2001, featuring the now-iconic track “Halo.” This song, with its haunting riffs and crushingly heavy chorus, became an instant classic and a staple of the nu-metal era. “Scars” propelled SOiL into the mainstream and secured their status in the heavy music scene.
Since then, SOiL has released six studio albums, each bringing its own blend of introspective lyrics, driving rhythms, and melodic aggression. Albums like “Redefine” (2004) and “True Self” (2006) showcase their ability to blend melody with raw heaviness, drawing in fans who crave authenticity and depth in their music. With their latest release, “Play It Forward” (2022), a covers album, SOiL pays homage to the tracks that shaped their sound and influences. Their fanbase is loyal and passionate, drawn to the band’s powerful performances and Ryan McCombs’ gritty, emotional vocal delivery.
As SOiL prepares to close out the night, fans are gearing up for a set that promises to be intense, emotional, and unforgettable. With each and every song, SOiL brings a sense of purpose and intensity, and the Nottingham crowd is ready to throw up their horns, headbang, and sing every word right back at them.
SOiL Live Review
The lights dim for the final time, smoke crawls across the stage, and a hush falls as the crowd buzzes with excitement. We know what’s coming, and we’re ready for SOiL to hit us with their relentless energy, that gritty brand of hard rock and heavy metal they’ve been perfecting since the early 2000s. The stage is bathed in orange and red as we wait, then bang they kick things off with “Breaking Me Down” from “Scars” (2001), SOiL ignites the stage. It’s raw, heavy, and the crowd explodes, fists up, headbanging along. Vocalist Ryan McCombs is at the edge of the stage, snarling every lyric with a visceral energy. The lighting is a fierce red, bathing the stage in a blood-soaked glow that matches the aggression of the song.
This is SOiL at their best, taking us back to one of their biggest hits with all the intensity of one of Oppenheimer’s pets, and the crowd? They’re eating it up, suitably warmed up by the undercard they’re relentless, screaming back every line as this one powers into the next up from ‘Scars’ is, “Need to Feel” it comes in with that haunting intro, a slow-build tension that grips the crowd.
The lights shift to a moody blue, casting shadows as McCombs lets his voice cut through, filled with grit and fire. This song has that almost hypnotic pulse, and the crowd sways, drawn in by the thick bass and grinding guitars. SOiL knows how to work the tension, and you can feel everyone holding their breath for that explosive chorus, and explode it does as Rock City is momentarily weightless as the crowd, as one gets light in their loafers once more.
“Wide Open” keeps the energy high. This track is an anthem of release, and McCombs delivers every line with power, as if the lyrics were carved from his own experiences. The band syncs up like a powerhouse unit, riffs sharp and drums booming. The lights flash white, illuminating the room in waves, and the crowd is right there with the band, fully immersed in the sound. There’s a sense of unity in the air, as the song’s raw lyrics hit home for so many. “Understanding Me” is next, and here the vibe takes a darker turn. The stage is awash in greens and purples, giving an almost eerie feel, while the bassline throbs heavily. McCombs brings a bit of that grungy, rebellious edge, delivering each word like he’s getting something off his chest. The crowd is locked in, matching his intensity, their voices echoing back every line. The connection here is electric, everyone feeling the weight and rebellion of the track.
They roll into “My Own”, another standout from “Scars”. This track has a sense of defiance that really resonates, and McCombs’ voice is pure grit and soul. The guitars grind with that perfect balance of melody and heaviness, and the lighting pulses in blue and red. The crowd’s hands are up, clapping in unison, and you can feel the collective power of hundreds of voices singing back, taking ownership of that feeling of independence and resilience the song represents. With “Unreal”, they set the stage for something heavy. The intro alone has the crowd roaring in anticipation, with lights dimmed, creating shadows that flicker across the band. As the tension builds, so does the crowd’s intensity, like waiting for the cage to open at a big WrestleMania match. The moment is thick with anticipation, SOiL knows how to draw us in, and we’re hanging on every second of that intro. They then burst into “Inside”, and it’s a straight punch to the gut.
The beat is relentless, guitars blaring with raw, unapologetic energy. McCombs throws himself into every word, and you can see the passion that’s fuelled this band for decades. The crowd’s reaction is fierce, bodies moving in unison to the relentless pace, like a single throbbing heartbeat. The lights pulse to the rhythm, drawing everyone deeper into SOiL’s world. Next, they bring out “Two Skins”, another gem This one has a dark, introspective edge, and the crowd seems to lean in, snared by the band’s ability to channel emotion into pure sound. The stage is lit with haunting reds and purples, casting long shadows. McCombs delivers the lyrics like he’s reliving a story, and the crowd’s reaction is quieter but intense.
“The One” shifts the vibe again, this time with an anthemic feel that has everyone singing along. McCombs’ voice is rich and powerful, a call to the crowd to join in. The lights flash golden, casting a warm glow that feels almost celebratory. The energy in the room is high, with fans raising their hands, singing with every ounce of their lungs. It’s the kind of song that feels like a celebration of resilience and strength, and everyone’s right there with them. When “Black 7” from “Scars” hits, the room shifts into a darker, heavier place. The bass is booming, and the guitars scream with a relentless, gnarly edge. McCombs’ delivery is fierce, raw, and unfiltered. The crowd is lost in the energy, headbanging and throwing up devil horns, matching the band’s aggression with their own. This song feels like an unleashing, a raw expression of emotion that resonates with everyone in the room.
SOiL launches into their iconic hit “Halo”, and the room erupts. The circle pit in the middle of the room has swollen, bodies collide, as they haul people over head towards the stage. This is what everyone’s been waiting for. It’s an anthem, a war cry, and McCombs’ voice soars over the crowd, who shout every word back at him. The lights are blinding, a barrage of white and red that matches the frenetic energy. McCombs is on the barrier singing with the crowd, he patrols shaking hands as he sings, he encourages the crowd to sing back as he thrusts hi microphone overhead. Every riff from the band, hits like a hammer, the drums thunder, and the crowd’s reaction is deafening. This is what SOiL does best, bringing raw power and connection to the forefront, leaving everyone electrified.
For the encore, they throw in their own take on “Black Betty”. The crowd loses it, jumping and singing along to SOiL’s gritty, hard-hitting version. The band infuses the classic with their own style, making it feel fresh and heavy. The lights flash with a playful energy, like a firework display at the end of a main event, and everyone’s moving, completely lost in the moment.
The set sadly finishes with “Pride” from the album “Re*de*fine” (2004), a fitting end with its intense, driving rhythm and unapologetic attitude. McCombs’ vocals are still fierce, pushing the crowd to give it everything they have left. The room feels like it’s about to erupt; the audience is all in, throwing their fists up, chanting, and riding the wave of energy until the very end.
Tonight was a raw, high-octane ride, and SOiL delivered everything a fan could want. Each song hit with power and passion, the crowd fed off the band’s energy, and for an hour or so, we were all connected in a world of pounding riffs and anthemic lyrics. SOiL have once again showed exactly why they’re still here, still heavy, and still taking the stage by storm.
