Concert – neostar//media

Static-X, DevilDriver, DOPE, and Wednesday 13 Makes Reverb the Hottest Venue in Town

Featured by neostarstudios, posted in Concert, Exclusive, Photography

Sunday July 7^th. Reverb – Reading, PA

It’s hard to turn down a chance to see a band you grew up with when they reform after a decade. Even rarer considering the loss of the most recognizable figure, in this case, Wayne Static of Static-X. The original line-up has reformed for a round of touring (celebrating 25 years since their debut and best-known album ‘Wisconsin Death Trip’) and work on a new album to utilize Wayne’s final vocal recordings. The fact that they are performing with a masked frontman who goes by XER0 only added to the morbid curiosity.

Things truly got started inside with theatrical band, Raven Black. You want makeup, masks and carnival elements? Check! How about a hula hoop, a giant teddy bear and the sense that Tim Burton films are on regular rotation in the tour bus? Double check! In all seriousness, they are an energetic newer band with a charismatic frontwoman that can certainly continue to grow and reach wider audiences.

Raven Black – Photo by Henry Chung
Raven Black – Photo by Henry Chung
Raven Black – Photo by Henry Chung
Raven Black – Photo by Henry Chung

Wednesday 13 was next and to those who haven’t kept up, the stage show and look has evolved. He was covered in paint with loads of neon and a mask on the back of his head. The pictures really say it all.

Dope was a big opener that I had some familiarity with from back in the day. The set wasn’t overly long but the hits I was familiar with were present “Die M.F. Die” and “You Spin Me Right Round.” This tour was also a 20 year celebration of Dope’s debut release ‘Felons and Revolutionaries.’ But being a memorial for the late Wayne Static, it was downplayed save for a few mentions from frontman Edsel Dope during in-between song banter.

By this point in the evening, show was starting to really fill in. With more people meant more heat which became a theme.

DevilDriver was next and they ran through a solid hour with a wide variety of material from all aspects of their lengthy career. There were even a few Coal Chamber classics thrown in toward the end (“Loco” and “Fiend”). As was slightly the case earlier in the evening and especially for the first 2/3 of Devildriver’s set, the mix was…..not great. The vocals and guitars were a bit too low in the mix which prompted Dez to demand that things be turned up. This went a large way toward fixing the issue. Still, it was probably something that should have been picked up on much earlier.

The venue was clearly at full capacity partway through Devildrier and the heat inside was sweltering. Musicians were even commenting on it throughout the night. Normally a few drinks are spilled throughout the evening but the venue floor was coated and slick with sweat. A brief sojourn outside to the now abandoned outdoor stage was the only respite from this. Fortunately, a light rain and a Mountain Dew went a long way.

Large screens were utilized by the last 3 bands of the evening, especially heavily by our headliners Static-X. Old images of the band, new animations, lyrics, messages of tribute to Wayne Static all punctuated the background. In fact, the screens led us through a protracted opening before the band came out and started with “December” before going right into “Bled For Days”. The first 9 songs were all from ‘Wisconsin Death Trip’ before they launched into samplings of some of their bigger songs from most of the other albums. “Get To The Gone,” “This Is Not,” and “Start A War” were personal highlights. Of course things ended with “Push It” as a show of this magnitude without it would be woefully incomplete.

Before all of that, I was lucky enough to speak to Static-X bass player, and really, the guy who had the biggest part in putting all of this together, Tony Campos. We talked a bit about the tour, the album, the old days, an interesting celebrity encounter and more!

Whether this is truly the live farewell or if Static-X will tour on ‘Project Regeneration’ in some capacity remains to be seen. It was my first chance in over a decade to hear a lot of these songs live again, and while a little different, it still evoked a lot of the spirit of the band that I recalled. That’s all I could ever ask. I’ll always have the old memories but this is a cool new one to file along with them.

Go to www.static-x.org to preorder your copy of ‘Project Regeneration’

With several shows on the upcoming Wisconsin Death Trip 20^th Anniversary Tour already sold-out, STATIC-X has announced additional dates for this fall. The tour will feature the same lineup of co-headliners DevilDriver and support acts Dope, Wednesday 13 and Raven Black.

WISCONSIN DEATH TRIP 20^TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR DATES:
6/18 – Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theater
6/19 – Albuquerque, NM @ El Rey Theater (Sold Out)
6/21 – Dallas, TX @ Gas Monkey Live
6/22 – Houston, TX @ The Warehouse
6/23 – San Antonio, TX @ The Aztec Theater
6/25 – Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade (Sold Out)
6/26 – Greenville, SC @ The Firmament (Sold Out)
6/28 – Baltimore, MD @ Soundstage (Sold Out)
6/29 – Sayreville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom
6/30 – Scranton, PA @ Levels (Cancelled)
7/2 – Toronto, ON @ Opera House (Sold Out)
7/3 – London, ON @ London Music Hall
7/4 – Ottawa, ON @ Brass Monkey
7/5 – Hampton Beach, NH @ Wally’s (Sold Out)
7/6 – Worcester, MA @ The Palladium
7/7 – Reading, PA @ Reverb (Sold Out)
7/9 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Jergel’s (Sold Out)
7/10 – Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater
7/11 – Indianapolis, IN @ The Citadel
7/12 – Ft. Wayne, IN @ Clyde Theatre
7/13 – Detroit, MI @ Harpo’s
7/14 – Lexington, KY @ Manchester Music Hall
7/16 – Grand Rapids, MI @ Intersection
7/18 – Cadott, WI @ Cadott Rockfest
7/19 – Sioux City, IA @ Anthem @ Hard Rock Casino (Sold Out)
7/20 – Joliet, IL @ The Forge (Sold Out)
7/21 – Belvidere, IL @ Apollo Theater (Sold Out)
7/23 – Denver, CO @ Oriental Theater (Sold Out)
7/25 – Santa Ana, CA @ The Observatory
7/26 – Los Angeles, CA @ Catch One (Sold Out)
7/27 – Los Vagas, NV @ House of Blues
NEWLY ADDED WISCONSIN DEATH TRIP 20^TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR DATES:
11/12 – Baton Rouge, LA @ Varsity Theater
11/13 – New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues
11/15 – Ft. Lauderdale @ Revolution
11/16 – Tampa, FL @ The Orpheum
11/17 – Destin, FL @ Club LA
12/2 – Chicago, IL @ House of Blues
12/6 – Sauget, IL @ Pop’s
12/7 – Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theater
12/8 – Colorado Springs, CO @ Sunshine Studios Live
12/10 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The Royal Bar
12/11 – Boise, ID @ Knitting Factory
12/12 – Spokane, WA @ Knitting Factory
12/13 – Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theatre
12/14 – Seattle, WA @ El Corazon
12/15 – Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theatre
+ More dates TBA!

Words: JJ Ellis
Photos: Henry Chung

A Reunited Anberlin Plays to a Sold Out Crowd at the TLA

July 10, 2019July 12, 2019 by neostarstudios, posted in Concert

It’s been over five years since Anberlin called it quits. But earlier this year the band announced a string of North American tour dates with I the Mighty as support. One of the first to sell out was Philadelphia’s TLA. The demand was so high that the band added a 2nd date to their itinerary to appease the fans.

Children of Bodom, Swallow The Sun, and Wolfheart on the “Hexed Tour” at Reverb (Ep 90 + 91)

May 3, 2019July 19, 2019 by neostarstudios, posted in Concert, Exclusive, Interview, Photography, Podcast

4/18/19 – Children of Bodom / Swallow The Sun / Wolfheart – Reverb Reading, PA.

After a hearty dinner at the nearby Pike Cafe and Bar, we made our way into the venue to catch the tail end of Summoner’s Circle‘s set. Robes, makeup and doom. Check. Check. Check.

Next was Wolfheart. Hot off of last year’s ‘Constellations of the Black Light’ the band came out with an energetic set, featuring a drummer who may or may not be the Energizer bunny. This is the latest project (yet still rather long-running) of Tuomas Saukkonen. The bass player frequently engaged the crowd and this was the point in the evening where the audience was beginning to congregate around the stage.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Swallow the Sun brought a more meditative and somber set. The lights were mostly low and the more melancholy, less doomy material on their latest album, ‘When A Shadow Is Forced Into The Light’ was an appropriate pairing for the set. First single “Firelight” was featured along with “Under The Water” and “Stone Wings” the latter of which especially seemed like a crowd favorite. To be honest, a lot of the crowd didn’t seem to know what to make of the set for the first few songs. The evening’s consistently low vocal mic didn’t do anyone any favors though it improved slightly as the show progressed. At a certain point, everyone seemed to wake up a bit and respond to the music with most people seeming to be on board by the end. While half of the set was new, they ended with their traditional closer “Swallow (The Horror Pt. 1”).

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Our headliners, Children of Bodom came out and so did the red and especially purple lights which was appropriate for their latest album ‘Hexed.’ “Are You Dead Yet?” was a pounding way to begin the show

Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung

Interestingly, the band had recently toured on their very earliest material, so a fair amount of that was in the set along with a lot from mid-period favorites ‘Are You Dead Yet?’ and ‘Hate Crew Deathroll.’ Of course there were the new songs, the perfect first single “Over Grass and Clover,” along with “The Road,” “Platitudes and Barren Words” and “Hecate’s Nightmare.” These tracks reflect a lot of the best aspects of ‘Hexed’ which many are considering a bit of a return to form for the band, embracing some of their neoclassical roots while having some catchier tracks than the last few albums.

Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung
Children of Bodom – Photo by Henry Chung

Relatively new guitar player Daniel Freyberg proved himself to be a worthy additional as he held up his end of the deal with the songs. Of course, everyone else in the band are longtime constants so no questions there. Seeing keyboardist, Janne Wirman, in action was especially a treat as his tremendous dexterity and manipulation of the keys is truly the X-factor that helps to set the band apart. All of this was done on his backup keyboard which, itself, had some faulty switches, as he explained at one point in the set.

One of my personal favorites “Bodom Beach Terror” was played early and the rarely heard “If You Want Peace…Prepare For War” lent a bit of extra speed and heaviness to the show. Really, the selection was very good to appease fans new and old. Of course, with ten albums out, there are always going to be few songs that don’t make the cut for this go-round but, all things considered, everyone in attendance should have been, and seemed very thrilled. We even had some late-show crowd surfing.

The encore started with another of my favorites “Hate Me!” and ended with “Downfall.”

This package was a really rare treat as to have three wildly different bands from Finland playing in a little B-market (maybe C-Market?) like Reading in a tremendous convergence of unlikely factors. More than that, it was a great time.

Before the evening began, I had the pleasure of speaking with Janne from Children of Bodom. Of course, we talked about ‘Hexed’ but we also dove into their studios, some glaring omissions from the album, barbecuing, their beer and quite a bit more.

Interview with Janne Wirman, keyboardist from Children of Bodom

Pick up Children of Bodom’s ‘Hexed’HERE

Right after that, I tracked down Mikko Kotamaki, vocalist from Swallow The Sun. The interview was conducted right outside the venue which of course, featured a passing train, passing fans, and angry yellow jackets. Distractions aside, we spoke about his vocal evolution, other projects, Nick Cave, Paradise Lost, and quite a bit more.

Interview with Mikko Kotamaki, vocalist from Swallow The Sun

Pick up Swallow the Sun’s ‘When A Shadown is Forced Into The Light’HERE

You can pick up Hedonihil ‘I’HERE

Words / Interview by: JJ Ellis
Photos by: Henry Chung

John 5 Invasion 2019 at the Sellersville Theater

March 15, 2019March 15, 2019 by neostarstudios, posted in Concert

An evening of guitar virtuosity was enough incentive to bring me back to one of the area’s nicest venues The old timey feel of the Sellersville Theater and the strict seating arrangements lent a feeling of a more focused than usual audience. Unlike my other time there, the pit area in front of the stage was occupied by tables and stools instead of a standing general admission audience. The handful of people who stood were along the sides and not necessarily any closer than where I was lucky enough to be.

Indeed, I was in for a show more-so than a sweaty (yet also fun) human avalanche.

The first band up, Dead Girls Academy, represents a second chance for frontman Michael Orlando, formerly Michael Vampire. The Victory Records band was, in truth, a little better than expected with a lot of sunset strip vibes but also some fairly impressive dual guitar harmonies. With more seasoning and more adventurous songwriting, they might have potential to grow.

Jared James Nichols was the main support and the biggest surprise of the night as I had absolutely no knowledge or expectations. They’re a very bluesy 3 piece anchored by Elvis (no, not that one) on bass and Dennis (from Sweden!) on drums, serving as the backbone for the impressive guitar work kind of bluesy singing of their frontman, the titular Mr. Nichols. There were definitely nods to some classic rock like an Allman Brothers lick here and there. At one point, someone from the crowd called out “Cat Scratch Fever” (there is a slight Nugenty resemblance) which Jared laughed off. This kind of tour seems like an ideal opportunity to get this band’s name out there in front of audiences who would appreciate their skills while also being different enough to stand out.

The stage received a facelift for the headliner. Inflatable Halloween characters adorned the stage, somewhat creating a carnival atmosphere. During the set, an odd creature would stagger out: robot, clown, etc. Along with flashing lights and the occasional light-up guitar further spiced things visually but six strings were what brought us out. Oh, and guitar picks that were handed out to some lucky concertgoers.

Thing started with drummer Logan Miles Nix and bass player Ian Ross warming things up while a killer robot helped set the mood. Then, John 5 himself came out and the fireworks began, starting with heaviness in the form of “Season of the Witch.” There were a few nods back into the catalog but a lot of the material drew from his latest full-length ‘Season of the Witch,’ which was fine by me. The other highlights were the new songs that have slowly rolled out on Youtube from his upcoming album. Newbies “Zoinks,” “Crank It” and…one more that I’ll mention further down in this review, all held up extremely well live and bodes well for the album as a whole.

Those who either were in attendance last time or heard the live album (this is the venue it was recorded at) may recall he did a medley toward the end. This year, the band had a brand new slew of songs:

Rush “Fly by Night,” Nirvana “Smells Like Teen Spirits,” The Knack “My Sharona,” The Police “Every Breath You Take,” Rob Zombie “Thunderkiss ’65,” Marilyn Manson “The Beautiful People,” Van Halen, some Metallica and Megadeth, Rage Against The Machine, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Soundgarden, Pantera, really, too many to list. There was also some Steve Vai-esque talking through the guitar. At various points throughout the evening, a few mini guitars were employed along with a banjo, all making brief appearances.

As has been customary, Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” had a prominent place in the set before John wandered out into the crowd for some soloing. At one point, late in the set, a young fan from the audience was even brought up on stage to tentatively strum on John’s guitar while Mr. 5 manipulated his pedal board to make some sounds.

Things ended with ‘I Am John 5,” a bold choice as it’s a new song but I certainly doubt that anyone left disappointed, as it had an inherent funkiness, speed and excitement to help empty the tank, so to speak.

An encore would have been great but as John said, he had to finish watching “Kiss Meets The Phantom,” something I think we can all respect.

Keep an eye out on www.john-5.com for more announcements, videos and news on that full-length and all happenings.

Words by: JJ Ellis

Lineup Announced for The Vans Warped Tour 25th Anniversary Shows

March 1, 2019March 8, 2019 by neostarstudios, posted in Concert, Update

The Vans Warped Tour, presented by Journey®, announces the lineups for its bi-coastal 25th Anniversary events that celebrate the final showcase of the tour’s iconic culture. The unique music experience will stop in three locations including Cleveland, Ohio, Atlantic City, New Jersey, and Mountain View, California and caps off 25 years of history of the Vans Warped Tour.

“The Vans Warped Tour holds a very special place in our hearts and in our history.” explains Steve Van Doren, vice president of global events and promotions at Vans. “It was through the annual tour that we were able to bring music and action sports to youth across the globe for over two decades. We are really excited to partner with Kevin and the Warped team to put on a once in a lifetime experience to celebrate the tour’s final year.”

“Through the years the Vans Warped tour has always tried to bring you something extra, this year we have gone through the past archives and dug up many of our old friends to join us for these special events.” says producer Kevin Lyman. “The curated art experience will showcase our favorite moments over the last 25 years. So, dust off the old Vans and lace em’ up since you won’t want to miss a thing!”

Each event will also feature additional acts unique to its celebration. Cleveland will see the partnership with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame bringing to life an exhibit celebrating the 25 years of Vans Warped Tour alongside acts such as Hawthorne Heights, Emery, Chali 2na & Cut Chemist. Atlantic City boasts bands like A Day To Remember, Bowling For Soup, Glassjaw, Reel Big Fish, and hometown heroes Taking Back Sunday and Valencia. And Mountain View answers with The All-American Rejects, Dance Gavin Dance, NOFX, Sum 41, and The Story So Far.

Rounding out the lineups and staying true to its roots, the Vans Warped Tour is giving a nod to unique up-and-coming acts such as Bad Cop / Bad Cop, Elder Brother, Not Ur Girlfrenz, Stacked Like Pancakes, Silent Planet, Trophy Eyes and more.

In celebration of the final year, fans can expect the heart of the Vans Warped Tour experience to be intact but presented on a much larger scale. Each stop will feature 50+ bands across multiple stages, Vans iconic vert ramp with cameos by Vans skate team, and an art exhibit showcasing moments and artifacts from the tour’s history.

“Through the years the Vans Warped tour has always tried to bring you something extra, this year we have gone through the past archives and dug up many of our old friends to join us for these special events.” says producer Kevin Lyman. “ The curated art experience will showcase our favorite moments over the last 25 years. So, dust off the old Vans and lace em’ up since you won’t want to miss a thing!”

The Anniversary Events will continue to host a wide array of incredible non-profits and educational experiences for attendees. A Voice For The Innocent, American Red Cross, Can You Hear Me?, Down to Vote, Feed Our Children Now!, Headcount, Hope For The Day, Keep A Breast, Living The Dream Foundation, Musicares, To Write Love on Her Arms, and truth will all be involved this summer. Not only will fans see their favorite bands but they can learn more about these causes and what they can help.

The Vans Warped Tour looks forward to celebrating 25 year with its sponsors Cool Gear, Equal Vision Records, Ernie Ball, Fearless Records, Fueled By Ramen, Full Sail University, Pure Noise Records, Side One Dummy Records, Unified Music Group, and more.

VANS WARPED TOUR 25TH ANNIVERSARY EVENTS:
6.08 • CLEVELAND, OH • ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME
6.29 + 6.30 • ATLANTIC CITY, NJ • ATLANTIC CITY BEACH
7.20 + 7.21 •MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA • SHORELINE AMPHITHEATRE

For tickets and more information, fans can visit – vanswarpedtour.com

Musikfest: Incubus Playing the Steel Stage 8/7

February 28, 2019March 1, 2019 by neostarstudios, posted in Concert, Update

Incubus will be coming back to Bethlehem the make their Musikfest debut. The band has previously played the Sands Bethlehem Event Center years prior but this will mark the first time they’re playing the Steel Stage for Musikfest.

Ticket Pre-sale:
ArtsQuest Members (gold and above): Tuesday, 3/5, 10am
ArtsQuest Members (all levels): Wednesday, 3/6, 10am
Tickets on sale: Friday, 3/8, 10am

Price: $59-$79
Venue: Sands Steel Stage at PNC Plaza at Musikfest
Gates: 6 p.m. | Show: 7 p.m.

MEDIA PARTNERS:
Spin Radio
WZZO

The Bash: Music and Craft Beer Festival

February 19, 2019March 1, 2019 by neostarstudios, posted in Concert, Update

The Bash, headlined by Rancid is a day filled with craft beer and live music!

The Bash Music & Craft Beer Festival is coming to:

May 11 – Phoenix AZ: Rancid, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Suicidal Tendencies, L7, H20
May 12 – Tucson AZ: Rancid, Pennywise, Suicidal Tendencies, L7, H20
June 2 – Englishtown NJ: Rancid, Pennywise, Suicidal Tendencies, L7, Madball
June 8 – Boise ID: Rancid, Pennywise, Suicidal Tendencies, L7
June 9 – Tacoma WA: Rancid, Pennywise, Suicidal Tendencies, L7, Noi!se
June 15 – Santa Clara CA: Rancid, Pennywise, Suicidal Tendencies, L7, Sharp Shock
June 16 – Sacramento CA: Rancid, Pennywise, Suicidal Tendencies, L7, Sharp Shock

The Bash will feature up to four hours of craft beer tastings featuring over 100 craft beers, including some of the best local favorites. Festival hours will: VIP- NOON, GA- 1pm, 21+ 4pm

This event is for those 21+ until 4pm. All ages after 4pm!

General Admission and VIP tickets will be available for purchase.
All tickets include craft beer tasting (21+) and access to view the music stage.
Passes on sale at https://thebashfestival.com/

FATES WARNING Signs Worldwide Deal With Metal Blade Records; Band To Kick Off US Tour With Queensrÿche in March

February 15, 2019March 7, 2019 by neostarstudios, posted in Concert, Update

Metal Blade Records is proud to welcome FATES WARNING to its worldwide roster. FATES WARNING began in the early 1980s playing a traditional style of heavy metal. However, they quickly began to adopt a more technically proficient style and are considered by many to be the first true prog metal band. While the band has subsequently moved in more melodic and ambient directions, they have remained a vibrant and well-respected cornerstone for the progressive camp within the heavy metal strata.

Fates Warning – Photo by Stephanie Cabral

FATES WARNING vocalist Ray Alder comments: “All of us in FATES WARNING are happy to announce that we are back with Metal Blade Records. Metal Blade has been there for us since the very beginning and we are proud to call them part of our family. The journey begins again, and we cannot begin to say how excited we are to work together once more. A big thank you to our fans for sticking with us through all these years. We could not be here today without all of you. That is a fact. Thank you everyone. Here’s to making some new memories!”

FATES WARNING will kick off a US tour supporting Queensrÿche next month. The tour will commence on March 2nd in Orlando, Florida and run through April 3rd in Seattle, Washington. The band will begin work on their thirteenth studio album, set for a 2020 release via Metal Blade, following the tour’s conclusion. See all confirmed dates below.

FATES WARNING w/ Queensrÿche:
3/02/2019 The Plaza Live – Orlando, FL
3/03/2019 Culture Room – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
3/04/2019 Jack Rabbits Live – Jacksonville, FL **
3/05/2019 Masquerade – Atlanta, GA
3/07/2019 Sound Stage – Baltimore, MD w/ The Cringe
3/08/2019 Sellersville Theater – Sellersville, PA **
3/09/2019 Irving Plaza – New York, NY w/ The Cringe
3/10/2019 Palladium – Worcester, MA w/ The Cringe
3/12/2019 Bogarts – Cincinnati, OH
3/13/2019 Diesel – Detroit, MI
3/14/2019 Concord – Chicago, IL
3/15/2019 The Rave – Milwaukee, WI
3/16/2019 Medina Entertainment Center – Medina, MN
3/17/2019 The Royal Grove – Lincoln, NE **
3/19/2019 The Shrine – Tulsa, OK **
3/20/2019 House of Blues – Dallas, TX
3/21/2019 House of Blues – Houston, TX
3/22/2019 Aztec – San Antonio, TX
3/23/2019 El Rey – Albuquerque, NM
3/24/2019 House of Bards – Tucson, AZ ** w/ Push, Dirtnap, Tribulance, Fire By Rank
3/26/2019 The Marquee – Tempe, AZ
3/27/2019 Observatory – San Diego, CA
3/28/2019 The Fonda Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
3/29/2019 Slim’s – San Francisco, CA
3/30/2019 Ace of Spades – Sacramento, CA
4/01/2019 The Dip – Redding, CA **
4/02/2019 Crystal Ballroom – Portland, OR
4/03/2019 Neptune – Seattle, WA
** FATES WARNING only

Warped 25 Years: Locations Announced

January 28, 2019March 7, 2019 by neostarstudios, posted in Concert, Event, Update

Following the announcement that 2018 would be the last cross-country run, the Vans Warped Tour headed out for a final summer of music, philanthropy, and community.

Looking back on it now, Vans Warped Tour founder Kevin Lyman shares, “It was truly an honor to do a final cross-country run of Warped in 2018; to see fans from all eras of the tour come out for a day to celebrate an event that meant so much to them. I walked away from the final show with a true sense that the Vans Warped Tour became the community I had always hoped for.”

Fans can expect the heart of the Warped Tour experience to be intact, but on a much larger scale over 2 full days. 50+ bands across multiple stages, extreme sports ranging from skateboarding to motocross, and an exhibit of art that has come out of the tour’s history.

“With the [Vans Warped Tour] 25th Anniversary events, we want to bring the atmosphere of a classic Warped Tour show, but on a scale that our fans simply could not get with a national tour “ explains Lyman, “The bands, the special attractions, everything – we want to bring back elements that have made the Warped Tour, Warped Tour, over the past 25 years.”

The individual band lineup and special attractions for each of the Vans Warped Tour presented by Journeys 25th Anniversary events, will be announced Friday, March 1st. Pre-sales will begin on Monday February 28th and tickets will be available to all on Friday, March 1st.

For many, this announcement comes as no surprise; the Vans Warped Tour 25th Anniversary was eluded to in Lyman’s original statement about the end of the Vans Warped Tour:

“ ’The enduring spirit of the Vans Warped Tour remains as bright as ever, continuing to inspire creativity and ambition in new and exciting ways as we prepare for a 25th anniversary celebration in 2019.’ ”

For more information, fans can visit – https://fanlink.to/VWT25

JUNE 8 • CLEVELAND, OH • ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME
The Vans Warped Tour has partnered with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to create a special new exhibit, Forever Warped: 25 Years of Vans Warped Tour, celebrating a quarter-century of the iconic traveling music festival. This comprehensive exhibit documents the history of the tour from its inception in 1995 through the final cross-country run in 2018.

Visitors will see artifacts from quintessential Warped bands and breakout artists from the tour’s lengthy run, including instruments played by members of Fall Out Boy, No Doubt, Rancid and Reel Big Fish and stage clothing worn by Joan Jett and Ice-T. The exhibit will also present iconic items from the very first Warped Tour, as well as from 2018’s final touring run. And much more!

On Saturday, June 8th, 2019, the Forever Warped will kick off with a special opening concert featuring bands from across the 24-year history of the tour, a mini vert ramp, and more!

JUNE 29 + 30 • ATLANTIC CITY, NJ • ATLANTIC CITY BEACH
Set to a backdrop of sun, sand and surf, the Vans Warped Tour will celebrate its 25th Anniversary with a special two-day extravaganza on the beach in Atlantic City on Saturday, June 29 and Sunday, June 30, 2019. Atlantic City will be one of only three cities to host the Warped Tour and the only one on the East Coast.

The Vans Warped Tour’s 25th Anniversary event features 50+ bands across multiple stages over the two-day event, extreme sports ranging from skateboarding to motocross, and an exhibit of Warped Tour art that has come out of the tour’s history.

“We’re thrilled to host the only East Coast celebration of Vans Warped Tour’s 25th Anniversary on the Atlantic City Beach,” said Geoff Gordon, Live Nation Philadelphia Regional President. “Warped Tour was meant to take place on the surf and sand, so we welcome fans from across North America to experience this unforgettable weekend with us in Atlantic City.”

JULY 20 + 21 • MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA • SHORELINE AMPHITHEATRE
After a sold out show at the Shoreline Amphitheatre for the final cross-country run, the Vans Warped Tour makes a triumphant return to the Bay Area for a special 25th Anniversary 2-day event on Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21 at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, CA.

It’s only fitting that Warped Tour would choose the Bay Area’s as it became an instant second home to the event that got its start in the punk community of Southern California.

“I think probably close to half the bands on the first Warped Tour had some tie to the Bay Area,” remembers Lyman, “there was the up-and-coming band The Deftones, and then of course the Fat Wreck [Chords] roster – Good Riddance, No Use For A Name, Face to Face, and Tilt.”

Swallow the Sun Releases New Song and Video “FIRELIGHTS” Plus Tour with Children of Bodom

January 21, 2019March 7, 2019 by neostarstudios, posted in Concert, Update

Finnish melancholy death-doom metal masters Swallow The Sun released their second single and video, “Firelights“, off of their forthcoming album When A Shadow Is Forced Into The Light. Watch the music video, directed and produced by Aapo Lahtela, below. “Firelights” is the second track released off of the band’s upcoming full-length out on January 25^th via RED MUSIC.

When talking about “Firelights” Swallow The Sun states, “From the ultimate depths of Lumina Aurea we rose upon the water. Now it is time to light the first torches in the night. Death might be stronger than life, but Love is always stronger than death. This is Firelights!” You can listen to the previously released single “Upon The Water” HERE.

The track “Lumina Aurea” was released as a standalone single already in December 2018. You can watch the stunning video HERE and grab the track HERE.

Just this week, the band announced their direct support slot on the Children Of Bodom’s upcoming North American tour. Additional support will come from Wolfheart. Summer’s Circle, Hollow Cry, and Fragmentum as openers for select dates. The tour starts March 13th in Quebec City and wraps on April 19th in New York City. Tickets are available for purchase HERE.

Swallow The Sun Upcoming Tour Dates:
Feb. 7 – Helsinki, Finland @ Nosturi
Feb. 8 – Turku, Finland @ Apollo
Feb. 9 – Jyvaskyla, Finland @ Lutakko*
Feb. 14 – Tampere, Finland @ Klubi*
Feb. 15 – Oulu, Finland @ Teatria*
Feb. 16 – Kuopio, Finland @ Henry’s Pub*

*w/The Man-Eating Tree

North American Tour: Direct support to Children of Bodom
Mar. 13 – Quebec City, Quebec @ Imperial*
Mar. 14 – Montreal, Quebec @ Corona Theater*
Mar. 15 – Ottawa, Ontario @ Bronson Centre *
Mar. 16 – Toronto, Ontario @ The Phoenix Concert Theater*
Mar. 18 – Detroit, Mich. @ St. Andrews**
Mar. 19 – Chicago, Ill. @ House of Blues**
Mar. 20 – Minneapolis, Minn. @ Skyway Theater**
Mar. 22 – Denver, Colo. @ The Summit**
Mar. 23 – Salt Lake City, Utah @ Metro Music Hall**
Mar. 25 – Calgary, Alberta @ The Palace Theatre**
Mar. 26 – Edmonton, Alberta @ Union**
Mar. 27 – Vancouver, British Columbia @ The Vogue Theater**
Mar. 29 – Seattle, Wash. @ El Corazon**
Mar. 30 – Portland, Ore. @ Hawthorne Theater***
Apr. 01 – San Francisco, Calif. @ The Regency Ballroom***
Apr. 02 – Santa Ana, Calif. @ The Observatory***
Apr. 03 – Phoenix, Ariz. @ Club Red***
Apr. 05 – San Antonio, Texas @ Alamo Music Hall***
Apr. 06 – Houston, Texas @ Warehouse Live***
Apr. 07 – Dallas, Texas @ Canton Hall***
Apr. 09 – Tampa, Fla. @ The Ritz*Apr. 11 – Atlanta, Ga. @ Masquerade*
Apr. 12 – Charlotte, N.C. @ The Underground*
Apr. 13 – Baltimore, Md. @ Baltimore Soundstage*
Apr. 14 – Pittsburgh, Pa. @ Mr Smalls Theatre*
Apr. 16 – Syracuse, N.Y. @ Westcott Theater*
Apr. 17 – Boston, Mass. @ The Royale*
Apr. 18 – Reading, Pa. @ Reverb*
Apr. 19 – New York, N.Y. @ Irving Plaza*

* Summoner’s Circle opening (March 13-16 and April 9-19)
** Hollow Cry opening (March 18-29)
*** Fragmentum opening (March 30 – April 7)

Swallow The Sun is:
Mikko Kotamaki (vocals)
Matti Honkonen (bass)
Juuso Raatkainen (drums)
Jaani Peuhu (keys and vocals)
Juho Raiha (guitar)
Juha Raivio (guitar and keys)