Author Archives: Matthew Belter

TVD Live Shots:
Summer of Loud Tour
at the Great Park, 7/6

The Summer of Loud Tour roared into Irvine’s Great Park on July 5, delivering a seismic showcase of metal’s finest with a rotating roster of powerhouse headliners. Killswitch Engage set a fierce standard with their razor-sharp precision and anthems that demanded every fist in the air, while Parkway Drive’s cinematic intensity turned the stage into a coliseum of metalcore grandeur. I Prevail’s blend of crushing riffs and melodic hooks brought a dynamic energy that had the crowd roaring back every lyric, and Beartooth’s unrelenting charisma provided the perfect, high-octane finale.

Each band brought its unique brand of chaos and catharsis, creating an unforgettable experience that pushed fans to the limit. With its relentless energy and unparalleled diversity, the Summer of Loud Tour was a masterclass in the sheer power and passion of live music, leaving every attendee at Great Park Irving screaming for more.

Kicking off Summer of Loud beneath a golden Californian sun, Kingdom of Giants seized the stage with a six-song set that instantly electrified Irvine. Every thunderous riff and razor-sharp vocal from Dana Willax radiated both precision and anguish, captivating the ever-growing crowd.

Tracks like “Bleach” and “Wayfinder” balanced hard-hitting aggression with surprising emotional depth, while Willax’s unstoppable energy surged through growing mosh pits on the left and right of the stage. As the set ended, the audience wasn’t merely warmed up; they were awakened, fully primed for a day of metal madness that promised to reverberate long after the lights dimmed.

When Alphawolf exploded onto the stage, the day’s intensity reached new, dizzying heights. With an unrelenting ferocity, the Tasmanian wrecking crew tore into anthems like “Akudama” and “Creep”, transforming Great Park into a swirling cauldron of chaos. Lochie Keogh prowled the stage with a magnetic presence, his guttural roars sparking a tidal wave of movement in the pit, where bodies collided in perfect, anarchic harmony.

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TVD Live Shots: Boomyard at Cali Vibes at Marina Green Park, 6/6 & 6/7

Amid the sprawling energy of Cali Vibes 2025, the Boomyard carved out its own soulful and electrifying sanctuary within Marina Green Park. While the festival’s main stages boomed with headliners and massive crowds, Boomyard offered something entirely different. Its essence lay in its vibrance and intimacy, creating a haven where reggae, dancehall, and Caribbean rhythms were celebrated in their purest form. Pulsing beats, swirling colors, and a tight-knit community of music lovers left attendees not just dancing but feeling wholly connected to the culture.

The Boomyard’s lineup was nothing short of stellar, starting with standout performances on the Vibes stage on both Saturday and Sunday. Mystic Marley delivered a set steeped in tranquility yet filled with power, her soulful voice weaving threads of her family’s legendary lineage into the present. Her performance was a beautiful reflection of what modern reggae can be, blending thought-provoking lyricism with melodies that spoke to the heart.

BLVK H3RO, meanwhile, charged onto the stage with a bold and uplifting energy that was impossible to resist. With a captivating presence, he seamlessly mixed modern dancehall with traditional reggae roots, offering songs that were as infectious as they were inspiring. His performance felt deeply rooted in positivity, and fans left his set as if walking on air.

Beyond the headliners, Boomyard ensured its authenticity with an eclectic range of artists and DJs who brought their own flavor to this haven. Blakkamore & Yungg Trip had the crowd entranced early on, blending smooth rhythms with rhythmic storytelling, creating a set that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Chi Ching Ching brought a high-energy party vibe, with his crowd-pumping anthems sparking endless waves of dancing and sing-alongs.

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TVD Live Shots: Cali Vibes at Marina Green Park, 6/6 & 6/7

Sunny skies kissed by ocean breezes, reggae beats floating through the air, and an electrifying vibe set the scene for an epic weekend as Cali Vibes took over Marina Green Park in Long Beach, CA, on June 6th and 7th. Nearly 50,000 fans gathered by the shore to witness show-stopping performances from headliners like Kid Cudi, Stick Figure, Rebelution, and Dirty Heads, while legends like Cypress Hill, Pepper, and Fortunate Youth ignited the crowd with their unmatched energy. The grooves didn’t stop there—with the soulful rhythms of Boomyard courtesy of BLVK H3RO and Mystic Marley, Cali Vibes delivered magic at every turn, cementing its place as the West Coast’s unrivaled reggae-rock festival.

The opening day of Cali Vibes ignited Long Beach with an unstoppable energy, thanks to powerhouse performances by Stick Figure and Dirty Heads. Dirty Heads paid homage to their Huntington Beach roots with a high-octane set that had the crowd jumping, swaying, and belting out every word to hits like “Medusa” and “Vacation.” The air buzzed with unity as fans danced under the stars, turning the night into a joyous celebration of music and connection.

Stick Figure kept the momentum soaring, delivering a soul-stirring performance that blended reggae grooves with a modern edge. Scott Woodruff’s magnetic stage presence mirrored the crowd’s chilled-out vibe, creating an effortless bond between artist and audience. Highlights of the set included the unforgettable “Choice is Yours” and “World on Fire,” but the true show-stealer was Cocoa the Tour Dog, whose cameos sent waves of delight rippling through the audience. It was a night that epitomized the spirit of Cali Vibes—music, movement, and moments to remember.

Day two of Cali Vibes brought the heat with Kid Cudi and Rebelution delivering performances that were nothing short of spectacular. Rebelution kicked things off by guiding the crowd through a vibrant mix of beloved classics and fresh new tunes, their polished yet playful energy setting the perfect tone for the weekend vibes.

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TVD Live Shots:
Cruel World Festival
at the Rose Bowl, 5/17

On Saturday afternoon, the Cruel World Festival returned to Brookside at the Rose Bowl, bringing together an extraordinary mix of legends for a rainy day of dark, nostalgic delight. Headliners New Order, Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, and The Go-Go’s were what first drew the crowds, but from the moment gates opened, it was clear this festival was about so much more than just its top billing.

Fans endured steady showers to bask in the glow of unforgettable performances, from synthpop powerhouses to gothic rock kings and everything in between. It was a show for the ages and one I’m glad I get to experience every May here in Southern California.

The undeniable crown jewel of the day was Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD), whose set exemplified why they’re considered synthpop pioneers. Andy McCluskey was unstoppable, twirling and thrusting with contagious energy that had even the dampest attendees moving. Whether it was the rarely played “Joan of Arc (Maid of Orleans)” or fan-favorite “Electricity,” the band’s live sound was both nostalgic and refreshingly alive.

And when Paul Humphreys took center stage to sing “(Forever) Live and Die”, well, that was was pure magic. But it was the show-closing “Enola Gay” that solidified their place as the best set of the day. Rain or no rain, the estimated 50,000 fans erupted in synchronicity as the iconic synth riff echoed against the gray skies of Pasadena. It was an emphatic reminder of why OMD remains so loved by fans all around the world.

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TVD Radar: Rockaway Records stuns Beatle collectors with low number ‘White Album’ trifecta

LOS ANGELES, CA | Rockaway Records has done it again, unveiling a stunning acquisition that’s got music collectors and Beatles fans buzzing. The world-renowned music memorabilia hotspot has secured not one, not two, but three of the rarest Beatles “White Albums” in existence. Numbered 007, 008, and 009, this pristine trio of 1968 pressings is valued at a jaw-dropping $250,000, making it one of the most significant finds in Beatles collecting history.

For those in the know, low-numbered White Albums are the holy grail of Beatles memorabilia. These three-digit gems were part of a test run for the number stamper at Bert-Co in Los Angeles, making them a piece of music production lore. Numbers below 100 are virtually non-existent, and anything sub-10? Forget it. These don’t just pop up on eBay.

To underscore their rarity, consider this: Ringo Starr’s personal UK mono pressing No. 0000001 fetched nearly $800,000 in 2015. While the White Albums at Rockaway don’t have Ringo’s fingerprints on them, they do hold the distinction of being the lowest US-numbered trifecta to hit the market. That’s history you can spin on your turntable. And when was the last time you could say that?

“In our nearly 50 years in business we have had countless amazing Beatles artifacts, but never a White Album with such a low number, let alone 3 consecutive low numbers,” Wayne Johnson, the co-founder Rockaway Records told me last week.

But it’s not just Beatles collectors who are digging deep into their pockets. Nirvana memorabilia is blazing hot in the collector’s world right now too, with items like original concert flyers, rare vinyl pressings, and even Cobain’s personal artifacts fetching record-breaking prices at auction. The demand for grunge-era nostalgia only seems to grow, breathing new life into ’90s music history.

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TVD Live Shots: Exodus with Death Angel, Hirax, and Nukem at the House of Blues, 4/26

On Saturday night, the House of Blues in Anaheim transformed into a fiery haven for thrash metal maniacs as the 40 Years of Blood tour tore through town, celebrating the past, present, and future of thrash. Headlined by Bay Area legends Exodus, this sold-out show was a thunderous tribute to their groundbreaking debut album, Bonded by Blood, which turned 40 this year. From Gary Holt’s first blistering note, the night was a relentless assault of mosh pits, electrifying riffs, and raw, unfiltered chaos. By the time the dust settled, Anaheim was left in ruins—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

The night kicked off with Nukem, San Diego’s thrash metal wrecking crew, who wasted no time whipping the crowd into a frenzy. Known for their lethal mix of aggression and precision, Nukem ripped through tracks from their album The Unholy Trinity, closing their set with the aptly titled “Nukem All.” Circle pits erupted, crowd surfers launched themselves into the void, and vocalist/guitarist Steve Brogden delivered ferocious vocals that set the perfect tone for the carnage to come. Short but impactful, Nukem left the crowd hungry for more.

Next up was the thrash juggernaut Hirax, hailing from nearby Cypress, CA. Led by the ever-charismatic Katon W. De Pena, these old-school warriors brought the 1980s straight to the stage with crowd favorites like “Black Smoke,” “Drill Into the Brain,” and the blistering “Bombs of Death.” De Pena was a force of nature, diving into the audience not once but twice, all while belting out vocals as fans carried him across a sea of raised fists. The band’s chemistry and ferocity were undeniable, and by the end of their set, the energy in the room was absolutely nuclear.

If anyone could match the momentum Hirax left behind, it was the Bay Area titans Death Angel. Directly supporting Exodus, they delivered a performance that balanced thrash fury with heartfelt gratitude. Frontman Mark Osegueda, who’s been pulling double duty with Kerry King’s new project, was a whirlwind of energy and charisma. Between songs, he connected with the crowd, expressing his deep appreciation for their unwavering support.

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Andy McCluskey
of OMD, The TVD Interview

In a rare and intimate conversation, I had the privilege of sitting down with Andy McCluskey, the visionary frontman of Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD), ahead of their highly anticipated performance at the Cruel World Festival.

With a career spanning over four decades, McCluskey opened up about his enduring partnership with co-founder Paul Humphreys, the highs, lows, and unbreakable bond that has defined OMD’s legacy, their pioneering synth-pop roots, and the timeless allure of vinyl and how it continues to shape their artistry.

The fourth annual Cruel World Festival has an incredible lineup of iconic artists. How does it feel to be part of such an event, and what does it mean for OMD to perform alongside other legends from that incredible era?

We are really, really excited and happy to be doing this. We’ve talked to Cruel World on a couple of occasions and we’ve never managed to actually get the thing sorted out. We’re thrilled to be on the bill with such an incredible and diverse lineup.

Are there any bands on the bill you’re excited to play alongside?

We’re excited obviously to be on the same bill as our old friends New Order because we remember them as Joy Division back in 1979 when we were on Factory. I can remember seeing Devo when they played their first ever concert at Eric’s Club in Liverpool, they were amazing and I have not seem them live since. Fun fact—their first album, Q. Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!, is still one of my most played records. And the list just goes on and on and on. From our era, you’ve got Madness and you’ve got Blancmange and you’ve got Midge Ure and The Go Go’s. Unbelievable.

When preparing for a festival like Cruel World, how do you approach crafting a setlist that satisfies both lifelong fans and newer listeners who might be seeing you for the very first time?

It can be difficult, because we normally play our headlining sets for over an hour and a half. During those shows, we take the audience on a journey through our classics as well as some deep dives into our catalog—things that the hardcore fans are going to want to hear. But as you know, if you’re lucky enough to have had a handful of hits, you really need to play them. Because, when I go and see bands I like, I want to hear their hits. A few deep cuts are fine, but I am truly there to hear the hits.

So, we’ll be playing pretty much that type of set that people will know. I think when you go to a festival like Cruel World, you just get out there and basically hit people between the eyes with your best shots. And if they want to hear OMD’s deeper cuts, they’ll come and see us at one of our headlining gigs when we’ve got more time to explore that history.

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Gary Holt,
The TVD Interview

When it comes to thrash metal, few names carry as much weight as Gary Holt. As one of the originals and powerhouse guitarist of Exodus, Holt has been at the forefront of one of music’s most electrifying and enduring genres, shaping its raw energy and uncompromising spirit for over four decades. Now, with his much-anticipated book, A Fabulous Disaster, on the horizon, Holt pulls back the curtain on a career that’s been as relentless as the riffs he’s built his name upon.

From the sweat-soaked clubs of the Bay Area to global stages, he’s seen it all—and lived to tell the tale. But Holt’s passion isn’t confined to just the fretboard. He’s also a devoted advocate for vinyl, sharing candid insights on how its resurgence is reshaping how we experience music in a digital world. Join us as we sit down with a true metal legend to explore the intersection of history, sound, and analog revival in a conversation that’s as electrifying as the music itself.

Over the span of your career, you’ve been a powerful force in both Exodus and Slayer. How has playing with these two iconic bands influenced your approach to creating and performing music?

I’ve only written for my band, Exodus. I contributed to one Slayer album, 2015’s Repentless, but Kerry King wrote that one himself. As for Exodus, we have always written music for ourselves, and never did it to please anyone else. We believe in creating music we enjoy, which translates to thrash standards that deeply resonate with our fans.

Can you take us back to your earliest musical influences. Were there any specific guitarists or bands that initially sparked your passion for music?

I grew up as the youngest of six kids, with five older brothers who were all into hard rock. I was introduced to amazing music early on, listening to bands like Black Sabbath, Montrose, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Mahogany Rush. This influence shaped my tastes, leading me to discover bands crucial to Exodus, such as Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, and the Scorpions. Guitar legends like Michael Schenker, Richie Blackmore, and my hero Ted Nugent really inspired me. Seeing Nugent live made me want to play guitar, and I always felt he looked 10 feet tall when I saw him playing live on stage. I remember thinking, “I wanna do that!”

Who would be on your Mt. Rushmore of guitarists?

That would be Richie Blackmore, Michael Schenker, Angus Young, and of course the Motor-City Madman, Ted Nugent.

Are there any moments from the road—wild or heartfelt—that have stuck with you over the years?

The band has experienced so many memorable moments and significant challenges while touring over the decades. The passing of Paul Baloff in 2002 was an especially difficult period for Exodus, including the responsibility of planning his final arrangements. At that time, we collectively were not in the best condition—both physically and mentally—which compounded the difficulty of the situation. The pain from Paul’s loss remains with us to this day.

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TVD Live Shots:
Dream Theater at YouTube Theater,
2/22

Dream Theater unleashed a prog-metal masterclass at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood on Saturday night, igniting their 40th Anniversary Tour with a sonic vengeance. The reunited quintet—featuring the triumphant return of drummer Mike Portnoy alongside James LaBrie, John Myung, John Petrucci, and Jordan Rudess—delivered a sprawling, jaw-dropping set that blended vintage classics with razor-sharp precision, proving why they remain titans of the genre. Under the venue’s pulsing lights, fans were swept into a whirlwind of intricate riffs, soaring vocals, and mind-bending time signatures, marking a night that redefined anniversary celebrations with unrelenting energy and nostalgia-fueled fury.

The second that Bernard Herrmann’s “Prelude” spilled out of the speakers, dripping with cinematic swagger, you knew Dream Theater was about to blow the roof off. As lights dimmed and the curtain dropped, we were off to the races with John Petrucci’s all too familiar riff on “Metropolis Pt. 1.” It hit like a lightning strike, and singled these prog-metal kings were taking the City of Angels by storm and were not going to be messing around. What would span three epic hours, they unleashed a sonic assault on a now capacity crowd, proving to all in attendance why they still reign supreme.

Petrucci’s guitar on Saturday night was a true magic carpet ride—shredding intricate riffs one minute, then melting hearts with solos that hit you right in the feels. Jordan Rudess worked the keys like a mad genius, splashing “Overture 1928” with vibes so lush you could swim in ‘em. And Mike Portnoy? That dude’s legendary drumming was a full-on spectacle—hypnotic beats morphing into explosive chaos. Catchy? Hell yeah—this was a masterclass with a pulse.

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TVD Live Shots:
Howard Jones with ABC and Richard Blade at the House of Blues, 2/8

The House of Blues transformed into a vibrant time capsule on Saturday night, as ’80s new wave icons Howard Jones and ABC were set to take the stage for a sold-out show brimming with excitement and neon-lit nostalgia. Fans from every generation, from lifelong devotees to curious newcomers, filled the iconic venue, ready to celebrate the timeless energy of an incredible era in music. After a brilliant set by ABC, the night took an unexpected turn when a significant gas leak at the Anaheim GardenWalk forced the evening to unravel in ways no one in attendance could have anticipated. What began as a celebration of music and memories quickly became a surreal and chaotic experience that left many wishing they could rewind the night in its entirety.

Opening for Howard Jones and ABC was the true Godfather of ’80s music, Richard Blade. He has been involved with New Wave music since its inception and is known for promoting bands like Billy Idol, Duran Duran, and Depeche Mode during tenures on the World Famous KROQ and Video One. Blade’s 45-minute set included a history of 1st Wave music, highlighting the importance of bands like Kraftwerk, OMD, and U2. He shared stories about each band and showed original videos, which engaged the audience and encouraged crowd participation. Like many, I had actual goosebumps throughout his New Wave history lesson and couldn’t help smiling and dancing the whole way through.

After a brief intermission, Blade one again took center stage and introduced a band that really needed no introduction, the legendary ABC. The 13-song masterclass opened with a bang as the unmistakable synth intro to “When Smokey Sings” filled the air. Fry, clad in a slick gold suit that shimmered under the lights, walked out to deafening cheers. His commanding presence and smooth baritone instantly captivated the now packed room. Though four decades removed from the release of their iconic album The Lexicon of Love, Fry proved he still commands an undeniable aura of charm and sophistication.

ABC’s performance on Saturday night was tight, polished, and every bit as lush as one would hope. Supported by a talented ensemble of amazing musicians, the sound was clean, layered, and provided a perfect balance between the nostalgic warmth of the ’80s production style and a crisp modern edge. Songs like “(How to Be a) Millionaire” and “Tears Are Not Enough” had the crowd swaying and singing along, their infectious melodies rekindling memories for long-time fans and introducing newcomers to the magic of ABC. “Poison Arrow” was one of my favorites from the set and was absolute perfection.

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TVD Live Shots:
Tom Morello with Seven Hours After Violet at
the House of Blues, 2/6

The House of Blues in Anaheim vibrated with raw energy on a frosty night as guitar legend, activist, and father Tom Morello took the stage for a gripping 21-song set in front of a near capacity crowd on the Gardenwalk in Anaheim. The packed venue raged with anticipation and were all drawn together for an evening of fiery riffs, thunderous percussion, and unapologetic passion. It wasn’t just a concert; it was a seismic experience, a sweaty, joyous communion between performers and crowd that turned the intimate venue into ground zero for pure musical resistance.

Seven Hours After Violet kicked off the night with a bang, their haunting yet hard-hitting sound laying the foundation for what was to come. This up-and-coming band (led by legendary System of a Down Bassist Shavo Odadjian) brought a fascinating mix of dreamy, reverb-soaked melodies intertwined with grittier, alt-rock rhythms.

Lead singer Taylor Barber held the crowd’s attention with soaring vocals and raw emotion, while the tight rhythm section brought songs like “Sunrise” and “Radiance” to life. Especially memorable was their closing track, an anthemic “Feel” that crescendoed into a wall of sound, leaving the crowd begging for more. The band’s chemistry was palpable, and their energy super contagious, making them the perfect warm-up for what was about to come.

The roar that greeted Tom Morello as he stepped onto the stage was deafening, and for good reason. The living legend wasted no time, launching into “Soldier in the Army of Love” with the kind of precision and power that only years of mastery can bring. More incredible was watching his son Roman playing alongside his pops for what can only be described as memorable and jaw-dropping. This guy is amazing, and well on his way to his own incredible success in the family business as his career takes off. It was so fun watching him play with a reckless abandon that and reminded me of Tom’s start 30+ years ago here in So Cal. Watch out for Roman Morello, this young man is definitely going places!

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Needle Drop:
Dream Theater,
Parasomnia

Dream Theater’s sixteenth album, Parasomnia, marks a defining moment in the band’s illustrious 40-year history. With the return of original drummer Mike Portnoy alongside James LaBrie (vocals), John Petrucci (guitar), John Myung (bass), and Jordan Rudess (keyboards), this record is both a celebration of their roots and a bold leap forward in the band’s continual evolution. This reunion brings Dream Theater a renewed energy and focus, resulting in an album that is as technically brilliant as it is emotionally profound.

Thematically, Parasomnia dives into the elusive and enigmatic realms of sleep, dreams, and the subconscious. Much like the unpredictable experiences of the night, the album traverses a wide spectrum of moods, ideas, and emotions. From soothing, ethereal passages to chaotic, dreamlike sequences, each track explores night’s mysteries with poetic depth, blending surreal imagery with introspective storytelling. To me, this is Dream Theater at its best.

Dream Theater has always been synonymous with progressive metal, and Parasomnia reinforces this reputation while also pushing new boundaries. True to their classic sound, the album is packed with intricate arrangements, time signature shifts, and powerful solos. However, there’s an experimental edge here that sets Parasomnia apart from other albums in their catalog. You’ll hear everything from hard-hitting, classic metal riffs to softer, orchestral compositions intertwined with hints of jazz and electronic influences. The result is an adventurous and cohesive sonic landscape that takes the listener on a restless, dreamlike odyssey.

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TVD Live Shots:
Metal Allegiance with Ottto, Wicked, and Lost Legacy at the House
of Blues, 1/23

On January 23, 2025, the walls of the House of Blues shook under the force of pure heavy metal mayhem. Metal Allegiance, the ultimate supergroup of metal luminaries, delivered an unbelievable performance that set Anaheim ablaze on a chilly Thursday evening in downtown Disney. The air was electric as a near sold-out crowd was ready to immerse itself in a night of unrelenting energy, metal fellowship, and sonic thunder. From the first crushing riff to the final encore, this wasn’t just a concert—it was a communion of metalheads paying tribute to the genre that defined a generation.

The evening began with three heavy hitters that each brought something different to the Metal Allegiance bill. Lost Legacy opened and immediately roared to life with raw power, delivering a set packed with fiery intensity and booming riffs that reminded me of classic ’80s metal, reminiscent of bands like Krokus and Accept. Wicked was up next, and they didn’t just take the stage—they owned it. Their sound and look took me back to Poison’s early days, and I just couldn’t get enough of it. Ottto wrapped up pre-festivities and shook the House of Blues with a crunchy metal that was a perfect segway to the night’s main attraction. By the time their final note rang out, the crowd was whipped into a frenzied storm of headbanging, fully primed for the spectacle that was about to unfold—the mighty Metal Allegiance.

When the lights dimmed and Metal Allegiance stormed the stage, the energy in the room surged to another level. Opening with the ferocious “Pledge of Allegiance,” they immediately set a tone of unrelenting aggression and technical brilliance. The chemistry among the lineup of seasoned legends was impossible to ignore—each member brought their unique talents to the forefront, creating a synergy that no single metal band could replicate.

Alex Skolnick was a runaway highlight, his guitar wizardry leaving the crowd utterly spellbound. Whether shredding through face-melting solos or locking into chugging rhythms, his performance was a masterclass in guitar heroics. There were jaw-dropping moments during tracks like Van Halen’s “Light up the Sky” where his dexterity and fluidity had the audience scrambling to capture videos of his epic EVH solo. I love the passion Skolnick plays with—simply an incredible guitarist and even better person off the stage.

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TVD Live Shots: Helping Hands Concert & Auction featuring Metallica with Sammy Hagar & Friends and SistaStrings at YouTube Theater, 12/13

The Helping Hands Concert & Auction held at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood on Friday night, was a truly unique benefit show infused with musical brilliance and heartfelt generosity. This year’s event, MC’d by none other than Jimmy Kimmel, honored two incredible charitable organizations—Montana Pool Service, founded by Pearl Jam’s very own Jeff Ament, and Homeboy Industries, led by Father Greg Boyle. Those lucky enough to attend this star-studded event were treated to live sets by Metallica, Sammy Hagar & Friends, and SistaStrings. The crowd, a mix of rock purists and charity supporters, was electric, creating an ambiance charged with insane energy and a one-of-a-kind communal spirit.

From the moment the first note rang out from SistaStrings opening set, YouTube Theater immediately proved its reputation as one of the most state-of-the-art venues on the planet today. With its impeccable acoustics and sleek design, every sound resonated by sisters Chauntee and Monique Ross immersed the ever growing crowd into the very core of their performance that evening. While only playing five songs, their set was just what the doctor ordered as the theater began to fill. It included a number of their hits including “Beautiful Reckoning” and Goodbye,” along with an incredible cover of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water.”

Next up was Sammy Hagar & Friends and they immediately kickstarted the night with an ass-kicking performance that was nothing short of brilliant. This “Best of All Worlds” lineup featured bassist Michael Anthony, guitarist Joe Satriani, and drummer Kenny Aronoff. True to form, Sammy Hagar cranked up the energy to eleven as he worked through a dynamic selection of his hits that spanned his legendary 50+ year career.

The 10-song set opened with Van Halen’s “Good Enough,” and it was immediately clear that this band was ready for business on Friday night. Renditions of Montrose’s “Rock Candy” and Hagar’s 1982 classic “Heavy Metal” were sheer perfection, while Chickenfoot’ s “Big Foot” and “Oh Yeah” were jaw droppers for sure. The performance ended with “I Can’t Drive 55,” and capped off arguably one of the best Hagar shows I have seen in years. This guy is legend.

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TVD Live Shots: Night Ranger at City National Grove, 11/21

Some bands crank out hits, and others create memories—Night Ranger does both. With their recent high-octane performance at the City National Grove in Anaheim, the legendary rockers delivered a show packed with energy, nostalgia, and musical precision that left fans screaming for more after the final bow on Thursday night. From the moment the lights dimmed and the first chords blasted through the venue, it was clear this wasn’t just a replay of past glories; it was a celebration of timeless rock done right. Simply put, it was Night Ranger at its finest.

Launching into the set with “You Can Still Rock in America,” Night Ranger immediately set the tone for the night—a love letter to ’80s rock, but with a vitality that felt very much alive in the here and now. The crowd, a mix of die-hard fans and new generations experiencing the band for the first time, roared their approval as the anthem filled The Grove’s intimate, yet electric atmosphere. You could tell that this show was going to be something special, as each band member was all smiles from ear to ear the moment they took the stage. It was the quintessential definition of stage presence, and one mastered over countless decades of touring around the world.

Jack Blades, the band’s charismatic frontman and bassist, worked the crowd masterfully, balancing powerhouse vocals with playful banter that made everyone in the room feel like part of the show. I’ve always been a fan of Blades incredible vocal range, and it was on full display and in perfect pitch all night long. Brad Gillis, Night Ranger’s original guitar wizard, was also in top form, shredding in ways that were both technically breathtaking and emotionally charged. His solos throughout the evening were a jaw-dropping highlight, an electrifying exchange of skill and passion that underscored why he is so beloved by so many, all around the world.

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  • SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL INDIE SHOPS SINCE 2007


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