Author Archives: Matthew Belter

The Rolling Stones delivered a masterclass in rock ‘n’ roll at SoFi Stadium on night one of a two-night visit to Southern California supporting their 2024 Hackney Diamonds release. From the moment Mick Jagger strutted onto the stage, clad in an eye-catching sequined jacket, to the first strains of “Satisfaction,” the band captivated a multi-generational audience with their timeless energy and magnetic stage presence. This show wasn’t just a concert; it was a testament to the enduring power of rock music and a vivid reminder that the Stones (at 60+ years as a band) in are still very much the Kings of Rock and Roll.

Opening Wednesday’s show at Sofi was Grammy nominated artist The War and Treaty. This husband and wife duo that has been blazing trails and making music since 2014, and they were a perfect fit to kick things off in SoFi. My favorites from the set were “Called You By Name,” “All I Wanna Do,” and of course my favorite “Blank Page.” While many classify the band as country, I walked away feeling they were a hybrid of that along with rock and blues. Their sound was amazing and left me wanting more when their eight song set ended. It was a perfect primer for what was next to come, The Rolling Stones.

The Stones 20-song setlist on Wednesday was a carefully curated journey through the band’s extensive catalog, kicking off with the unmistakable riff of “Start Me Up.” The crowd erupted, and from that point on, the energy in the stadium never waned. As Jagger emerged center stage (flanked by Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood), you could tell the Stones would be on point with an incredible energy and sonic presence that is truly second to none. At 80 years young, Mick Jagger has more stamina and energy than most bands in their early 30s and it isn’t even close. That’s not a brag, but fact.

Key moments from the evening included rousing renditions of “Tumbling Dice,” and “Paint It Black” (one of my all-time favorites). Another highlight was “Gimme Shelter,” which featured a killer duet with background vocalist Chanel Hayes. These two walking out hand in hand were simply amazing. And who can argue with one of the most recognizable Stones tracks of all time, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”? This one seemed to feature the entire group and highlighted to everyone in attendance what incredible stage presence this band actually has as a whole.

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The recent sold-out concert featuring Foreigner, Styx, and John Waite at the Honda Center in Anaheim was a night to remember, a true celebration of classic rock that brought together fans from all walks of life. The evening was filled with legendary hits, epic performances, and unforgettable moments as each band took to the stage to deliver a show that highlighted their enduring appeal and musicianship. This event not only showcased the bands’ iconic songs but also their ability to connect with the audience through music that has withstood the test of time. Pound for pound, one of the best rock shows I have seen in 24’ and it’s really not close.

John Waite kicked off the night, setting a high bar with his impeccable vocals and charisma. The 8-song set comprised classics from his solo work, The Babys, Bad English, and even a few covers. His renditions of hits like “Missing You” were poignant and powerful, reminding everyone why he’s considered one of rock’s great voices.

And Waite’s not just an amazing vocalist, but a consummate storyteller too which bleeds out on stage during every performance. And if you haven’t seen his 2022 documentary, John Waite – The Hard Way, you absolutely should. It’s one of the best I have seen in years and highlights in spades why John Waite is so loved by so many all around the world. Waite has always been one of my favorites, and his incredible performance didn’t disappoint on Friday night.

Styx took the stage next, igniting the venue with their dynamic presence and intricate musical arrangements. Their 11-song set was a perfect blend of rock anthems and ballads, with highlights including “Come Sail Away” and “Rockin’ The Paradise, and “The Best of Times.” The band’s energy was infectious, compelling everyone to stand, sing, and celebrate the timeless nature of their music.

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On June 21st, metal-heads from all over the Southern California gathered at the Honda Center for The OC Hair Metal Meltdown. It was a dazzling spectacle that transported fans back to the golden era of ’80s hair metal (if we can call it that). This one-off show featured powerhouse performances by Great White, Quiet Riot, Slaughter, and Vixen, and the overall show was nothing short of a nostalgic feast for fans in attendance on Friday night.

As the lights dimmed, the crowd roared in anticipation as Vixen took the stage. Before kicking off their set, the iconic all-female band first introduced their newest member, vocalist Rosa Laricchiuta. After a rousing ovation from loyal fans who came early, Vixen kicked off their set with “Rev It Up” and there was no looking back from that point forward. They delivered an abbreviated 6-song set that was both electrifying and empowering. Hits like “Edge of a Broken Heart” and “Cryin'” showcased their enduring appeal and incredible musicianship.

Next up was Slaughter, whose energetic performance cranked the Honda Center to a whole new level after Vixen’s amazing performance. Mark Slaughter’s high-pitched wails and the band’s tight instrumentation brought classics such as “Up All Night” and “Fly to the Angels” to life. My favorite, however, was Spend My Life,” as it immediately transported me back to a time and place where all that was mattered was the music. Wow.

The crowd’s reaction to Slaughter’s set was overwhelming, with fists pumping and voices singing along to each and every song. And hats off to bassist Dana Strum. This guy was 100% energy from the very beginning and never dialed it back during their 9-song set of true Slaughter classics. Best-in-class performance on Friday and it wasn’t even close.

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On Sunday night in front of a packed house at YouTube Theater, rude boys and rude girls from all over Southern California paid homage to ska legends Madness with hometown heroes Berlin and The Untouchables. The sold-out venue was electric from start to finish, with fans skanking to classic tracks all night long. With perfect acoustics and an incredibly lively fan base, the evening proved to be an unforgettable celebration of music that won’t soon be forgotten. Madness and their long-awaited C’est La Vie Tour was truly one for the ages.

The evening’s festivities kicked off with The Untouchables who immediately set the tone for the night with their unique blend of ska and soul. Their hometown performance was a high-energy spectacle that engaged the audience right from the start. Original vocalist Chuck Askerneese was on fire from the start and had the crowd skanking to hits like “I Spy (For the FBI),” “Mandingo,” and “Be Alright.” All these classics showcased their musical versatility and were incredible to catch live. However, it was “Free Yourself” that truly captivated everyone, with its powerful lyrics and infectious rhythm. The audience responded with enthusiastic dancing and loud cheers, setting an incredibly positive mood for what was to come next.

Following The Untouchables, Berlin took the stage and transported the audience back to the ’80s for a 9-song set of their classics—and it didn’t disappoint. Starting with back-to-back hits like “Masquerade” and No More Words,” the crowd was immediately captivated. Their rendition of “The Metro” (my favorite Berlin song) was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, and the live performance of “Sex (I’m A)” was both provocative and captivating. However, my favorite track of the evening was their cover of The Cult’s “She Sells Sanctuary.” Wow. Berlin’s charismatic stage presence (courtesy of original members Terri Nunn, John Crawford, and David Diamond) was incredible and kept fans fully engaged from start to finish. And a special shout out to Carlton Bost. This guy’s guitar work is second to none and was so amazing to watch on Sunday night.

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The Cruel World Festival, held at Brookside at the Rose Bowl on May 11th, was a time machine back to the golden era of ’80s goth and new wave, encapsulating the essence of a musical revolution that has remained influential to this very day.

From the moment the gates opened, it was clear that this wasn’t just a festival; it was a pilgrimage for the devotees of a sound that defined a generation. My generation. A crowd estimated at 50,000+ brought with them an infectious energy, creating a festival atmosphere that was nothing short of magical in the shadow of America’s stadium. But at the end of the day, it was Al Jourgensen and his band Ministry that stole the Cruel World spotlight on Saturday. Their performance was one for the ages featuring a rare setlist that most likely won’t be repeated on any stage ever again.

The 2024 lineup was a dream come true for fans, with performances by iconic acts such as Duran Duran, Blondie, Soft Cell, and Interpol. Each band brought their unique flavor to the stage and wowed fans traveling from all parts of the country and beyond. Duran Duran’s electrifying performance had fans dancing to hits that have become anthems, while Blondie’s timeless cool and Interpol’s brooding melodies ensured the festival’s energy never waned. Then sprinkle in a touch of Marc Almond and Soft Cell, creating a Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret at Cruel World and a party not to be missed.

However, the festival’s highlights didn’t stop with the headliners—quite to the contrary. Ministry’s throwback setlist, featuring tracks from With Sympathy and Twitch, was a rare treat for fans as most of these gems had not been played live since the early ’80s. From “Work for Love” to “Effigy (I’m Not An)” to “Revenge,” most were in pure darkwave heaven the entire set. We even got to hear “(Everyday Is) Halloween” which was one of my favorite dance tracks as a teenager (and I song I NEVER thought I’d hear (or photograph) live. Wow. Pound for pound, Uncle Al and Company put on what I believe was the best overall performance of the Cruel World festival, bar none.

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The stars were aligned at the Observatory OC as heavy metal’s iconic frontman, Bruce Dickinson, delivered a performance that will be etched forever into the collective memory of an electrified audience. With a 16-song set that reached back to his early solo years and extended to his latest creative endeavor, The Mandrake Project, the show was a whirlwind of passion and nostalgia. Pound for pound, this was one of the most amazing live metal performances I have seen in years and it’s not even close.

From the opening notes of “Accident of Birth” to the final crescendo of “The Tower,” Bruce Dickinson reigned supreme. It’s not every day you witness a legend redefining the space with an ageless voice that pierces through genre and time. Plowing through a 16-song setlist, fans bore witness to arguably one of the best metal shows performed in Orange County in years.

My favorites from the night included “Chemical Wedding,” “Gods of War,” and “Darkside of Aquarius.” However, the zenith of the night came during a cover of Edgar Winter’s “Frankenstein”—Bruce leaped in front of a stand-up drum kit, adding a raw and primitive beat that transported the crowd to a place where music interfaces with the primal soul. Unbelievable.

The over-capacity crowd was an echo of Bruce’s vigor, matching his energy with raised fists and choral sing-alongs. Every lyric, every riff, reverberated through the hall in a mutual exchange of adoration and performance mastery. Bearing witness to such synchronicity drove home the certainty that we were part of something truly singular. Personal sensations bordered on the surreal—the intimacy of the small concert environment contrasted against the towering onstage presence. With Bruce at the helm, the experience transcended the auditory; it was exhilarating, to spiral momentarily into the realm of living legends.

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PHOTOS: CHRIS LOOMIS | On a chilly April evening at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, a sense of nostalgia enveloped the sold-out crowd as they gathered to witness a rock revival led by the Tom Keifer Band and opening act Michael Olivieri. The clamor and excitement in the legendary venue were palpable from the first riff to the last echo of the encore. It was a night filled with energy, excitement, and most importantly kick ass rock and roll by one of the best bluesman to ever pick up a 6-string.

Opening the night, Michael Olivieri, best known as the founding member of the band Leatherwolf, took the stage with a notably unplugged ambiance accompanied by KK Martin on second guitar. Over a 40-minute set, Olivieri revisited the roots of rock, churning out vocals that intertwined seamlessly with the duo’s acoustic guitar harmonies. The audience, a mix of rock purists and casual fans, responded with zeal to the stripped-down renditions of classics, setting the stage for an evening where the timeless allure of rock took center stage.

Following suit, the Tom Keifer Band exploded into their 90-minute performance, boasting an impressive 16-song set that saw the band dazzling a now full house. The band, led by the resounding voice of former Cinderella frontman Tom Keifer, showed impeccable on-stage chemistry. Anchored by the formidable performances by Savannah Keifer, Tony Higbee, Billy Mercer, Jarred Pope, Kory Myers, and Tanya Davis, the group demonstrated that the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll is still alive and thriving in South Orange County.

Tom Keifer’s grasp over the audience throughout the evening was unyielding. Not just content to command the stage, Keifer ventured out into the crowd—twice—melding barrier and performer. His earnest declaration that The Coach House “rocks harder than most GA venues” found favor among devoted followers, cementing a bond well beyond the music.

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At the Anaheim House of Blues on March 27th, the deafening roar of metal fandom echoed as Queensrÿche and Armored Saint delivered a show that could only be described as a commanding call to metal arms. With the “Origins” tour, these two monumental bands proved that their legacy is not etched in history books but is alive, searing through our era with undiminished fervor. Pound for pound, this killer performance was definitely one of my favorites this year and it wasn’t even close.

From the moment Armored Saint took the stage the energy was electric—palpable in every chord strike that ushered us “Over the Edge.” A flawless performance of the timeless “Can U Deliver” had the crowd singing every heart-racing riff, while “Reign of Fire” lived up to its name, engulfing the venue in a spirited blaze of head-banging ecstasy. John Bush’s relentless energy ricocheted off the walls, invigorating the crowd that had forsaken any notion of a quiet weekday evening. This set was special, and highlighted why Armored Saint is so beloved by so many, all around the world.

The seamless transition to Queensrÿche encapsulated the essence of an evening steeped in metal glory. Todd La Torre’s impeccable vocals, ringing out with the gravity of “Queen of the Ryche,” cemented the night’s epic status. It was sonic alchemy when they performed “Take Hold of the Flame,” each note sparking memories yet forging new ones in the crucible of the present. Perhaps the pinnacle for me was “Roads to Madness,” where in that spectacle, time seemed to stand still, the audience and band locked in a tableau of mutual admiration cast in shadow and light.

The rich tapestry of Queensrÿche’s set moved from strength to strength, a fierce reminder of the power of live music. The dark and shadowy lighting played counterpoint to the vibrant throwback visuals, setting a backdrop that was both nostalgic and tantalizingly current, highlighting that the songs off their self-titled EP and The Warning have weathered the ravages of time, defiant in their relevance. This is where it all started for Queensrÿche, and the sounds are just as impressive now as they were when these albums were originally released over 40 years ago.

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KMFDM, the pioneers of a genre known as “Ultra Heavy Beat,” recently set the Belasco theater ablaze with an electrifying show that will undoubtedly go down as one of the best in 2024 (and we are just getting started). On Sunday the 24th, a nearly sold-out venue bore witness to the explosive synergy between band and audience as fans swarmed the frontlines early on to secure a vantage point into the electrifying world that would soon be unchained. It ended up being a show for the ages and solidified KMFDM’s status as one of the most influential and resilient bands on the planet today.

The anticipation for KMFDM’s show on Sunday was tangible as dedicated followers, clad in their industrial uniform of black boots and propaganda tees, lined up hours before door time. Once the music finally kicked in, it was clear that neither the band nor the audience were going to hold anything back in the City of Angels. From the opening chords of “All 4 1” to a killer 5-song encore, the crowd was a sea of unbridled enthusiasm, singing along to every lyric, moshing in the pit, and reciprocating the band’s dynamism with unflagging zeal.

Throughout the evening, monumental tracks like “Hyena,” “A Drug Against War,” and “Megalomaniac” became anthems for the KMFDM faithful with the band delivering them with their hallmark ferocity. Sascha Konietzko’s foundational vocals coupled with his electronic wizardry immediately whipped the crowd into an irreversible frenzy that could not be stopped. Then layer in the powerhouse guitar performance of Andee Blacksugar and Andy Selway’s precision on drums, and a conjured force was unleashed that took immediate command of the theater.

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LONG BEACH, CA | Nestled within the vibrant and sprawling festival grounds of the Cali Vibes festival in Long Beach, the Boomyard stage emerged as a pulsating heart for reggae purists during an incredible 3-day event. While diverse sonic experiences ebbed and flowed across the festival’s expansive stages (The Vibes and The Greens, to be specific), Boomyard upheld the glorious traditions of roots reggae, offering an authentic, undiluted vibe that was both nostalgic and freshly invigorating. For many in attendance, the Boomyard stage’s uniqueness was the highlight of the festival, and the performances solidified it as one of the most incredible parts of Cali Vibes in 2024.

The Boomyard stage played host to a bevy of artists who championed the spirit of reggae, infusing Long Beach with the soul of Kingston. Protoje, with his lyrical prowess, enraptured the audience, invoking a sense of unity and consciousness reflective of reggae’s golden era. Stonebwoy brought an electrifying energy that had the crowd swaying to the rhythm of his beats, while Krossfayah’s set was a masterclass in blending classic reggae soundscapes with contemporary flair.

Close behind these towering performances were the bright sparks of talent that ignited the stage’s truly unique atmosphere. Acts like Eli-Mac, Karbon, and BLVK H3RO infused the venue with their raw, vibrant energy, signaling a promising future for the genre. The young Kailash earned his stripes among the reggae titans with a memorable performance, while Mystic Marley continued her family’s legacy, weaving her unique voice into the tapestry of sounds that her forebears helped popularize globally.

The atmosphere around Boomyard spoke volumes about its distinctiveness within the Cali Vibes Festival. It was where traditional Jamaican reggae fans found their sanctuary; a congregation of people mirroring the consistent rhythm of the music with their unwavering engagement. Euphoric roars harmonized with the beat drop as the audience cherished every note played. This one stage captivated the essence of reggae culture, fostering an infectious energy that was excited, rooted, and incredibly engaged.

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LONG BEACH, CA | Overlooking the rolling waves of the Pacific, the Cali Vibes festival in Long Beach unfurled its sonic tapestry on President’s Day weekend in what could only be described as a colossal celebration of rhythm and community. With a lineup that read like the who’s who of reggae, hip-hop, and rap, the festival drew crowds of 50k+ per day, creating a pulsating mosaic of sound against the LBC’s serene beachfront. Headliners for the 3-day event included Stick Figure, Slightly Stoopid, and Ice Cube along with a special performance on Saturday night from Gwen Stefani.

The Cali Vibes festival, a veritable celebration of reggae music and culture held in the heart of Long Beach last weekend, was an experience that transcended the ordinary. This event not only showcased an exceptional lineup of artists but also created an atmosphere of unity and positivity that resonated deeply with every attendee. The festival perfectly encapsulated the spirit of California—vibrant, diverse, and undeniably cool. From the pulsating rhythms echoing through the air to the throngs of people swaying in harmony, the Cali Vibes festival was an unforgettable immersion into the soulful world of music and one that attendees would never forget.

Cali Vibes typically brings in a “who’s who” of musical diversity and talent, featuring an array of both renowned and emerging artists. The festival boasted performances from reggae, rock, hip-hop, and afrobeat genres, offering the audience a rich and eclectic musical experience. The crowd was treated to sets from big names like Gwen Stefani, Slightly Stoopid, and Sean Paul. In addition, the soulful melodies of Stick Figure and Iration, as well as the infectious beats of Shaggy and Sublime with Rome, contributed to the vibrant atmosphere. Notably, Ice Cube, The Pharcyde, and The Roots also graced the stage, while Protoje and Kabaka Pyramid’s danceable hits left the Boomyard audience in awe. Here are a few of my favorite performances:

Damien and Stephen Marley: Damien and Stephen returned to The Vibes stage with their reggae roots, infusing the beach air with positive vibrations and profound messages encased in their legendary lyrics. Their embodiment of the spirit of reggae was a poignant reminder of the Marley legacy, lifting up festivalgoers with tracks both old and new. Their amazing set was hands down my favorite performance of the weekend.

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John 5’s recent show at the Observatory OC in Santa Ana was nothing short of a masterclass in guitar wizardry and captivating showmanship. From the very first notes of “Season of the Witch,” it was clear that the NAMM packed audience was in for a night of electrifying music on what turned out to be a beautiful night here in central Orange County. From top to bottom, John 5 put on an amazing show, leaving no doubt why he is considered one of the most talented guitarists on the planet today. His performances are not to be missed, and this one was one of the best I have seen (bar none) in years.

Opening for John 5 on Friday night was none other than The Atomic Punks, a Southern California based tribute to early Van Halen. Considered to be one of the most authentic tributes to David Lee Roth era VH of all-time, these cats put on a headline type show that brought out the inner rocker in everyone attending. Classics like “Panama,” “So This is Love,” and “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘bout Love” were all sonic perfection coupled with spot-on stage antics that had the crowd wondering if this was actually Van Halen in its prime. My favorite moment of the night was watching Punks guitarist Frankie Lindia crush EVH’s legendary guitar solo “Eruption” in a way that few have ever been able to capture. His recreation of this classic was truly magical and literally brought tears to my eyes.

Next up was another up and coming guitar heavyweight, Jared James Nichols. Good lord, this guy can play. Known for his “pick-less” guitar playing technique, Jared crushed a 12-song opening set that left little to the imagination for the ever growing crowd here at the Observatory. I’ve seen JJN’s live performances before and can honestly say he took this one to a whole new level. Blues infused hits like “Easy Come, Easy Go” and “Skin ‘n Bone” were cooked to perfection and had the crowd screaming for more all night long. But it was Nichols impeccable cover of Alice in Chains’ “Man in the Box” that stood out for me. He took an already classic song and placed his own indelible stamp on it in a way I might have felt impossible. Respect.

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Metal Allegiance, the star-studded supergroup featuring metal heavyweights such as David Ellefson, Alex Skolnick, Mike Portnoy, and Mark Menghi, delivered a seismic performance at the Anaheim House of Blues on January 25. The band, known for its exceptional fusion of thrash, groove, and traditional heavy metal, crushed a 19-song set that torched a packed house deep in the heart of Orange County. This was by far the best show during the 2024 NAMM week and far exceeded expectations from both new and established fans alike.

The Metal Allegiance project (celebrating its landmark 10th Anniversary) stands as a testament to the enduring impact and influence of an amazing group of legendary musicians. With members hailing from iconic bands such as Megadeth, Testament, Dream Theater, Exodus and more, Metal Allegiance represents a convergence of immense talent, experience, and passion for metal music. This amalgamation of virtuosic musicianship and diverse influences infuses their live shows with an unparalleled dynamism and raw energy.

Thursday’s show kicked off with an electrifying performance by the San Diego-based band Quor. Despite being unfamiliar with their music, I was blown away by their captivating opening set, setting the stage for what was to come. Held Hostage then took the spotlight, delivering a scorching set that ignited the House of Blues. Prior to Metal Allegiance taking the stage for their 10th anniversary show, the supergroup Dieth, featuring vocalist Guilherme Miranda, drummer Michał Łysejko, bassist David Ellefson, and guest guitarist Jadran Gonzalez, delivered an awe-inspiring performance, seamlessly leading into the main event.

As the concert unfolded at the Anaheim House of Blues, Metal Allegiance wasted no time in igniting the stage with their explosive presence. The crowd was immediately engulfed in a sonic maelstrom as the band launched into their setlist with unrelenting force with “The Accuser.” Alex Skolnick and Andreas Kisser’s scorching guitar solos, coupled with Mark Menghi’s thunderous bass lines and Mike Portnoy’s drumming mastery, formed a formidable sonic foundation that reverberated throughout the venue.

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