WORDS AND IMAGES: JAMES COFFMAN IN LAS VEGAS | Sick New World Festival in Las Vegas on May 13th, 2023, was an electrifying celebration of rock and alternative music, showcasing a lineup that left no stone unturned. With System of a Down headlining the event, fans eagerly anticipated an unforgettable experience. The festival was a rollercoaster ride of energy, talent, and passion, with special and exciting performances throughout the day by Flyleaf with Lacey Sturm, P.O.D, Soulfly, Papa Roach, Death Grips, Mr. Bungle, Chevelle, Sevendust, Spiritbox, Incubus, She Wants Revenge, Deftones, Korn, and The Sisters Of Mercy.
The festival kicked off with a bang with Alien Ant Farm delivering a fantastic rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal.” P.O.D. followed suit, delivering a high-octane set that ignited the audience’s enthusiasm. Directly after, Flyleaf took the stage, accompanied by the powerful vocals of Lacey Sturm. Their explosive performance resonated with the crowd, setting the tone for the day ahead.
Soulfly’s intense and hard-hitting performance left no doubt about their place in the metal scene, captivating fans with their signature blend of heavy riffs and tribal influences. Papa Roach’s energy was infectious, as they unleashed their chart-topping hits with unabashed fervor. Death Grips brought a unique and experimental edge to the festival, pushing boundaries and defying expectations. Mr. Bungle’s eclectic sound and theatrical presence mesmerized the crowd, creating an atmosphere of anticipation for what was yet to come.
Chevelle commanded the stage with their powerful and melodic rock sound, delivering a performance that was both captivating and emotionally charged. Sevendust brought their distinctive blend of heavy riffs and melodic hooks, showcasing their undeniable talent and leaving fans wanting more. Spiritbox enchanted the audience with their ethereal melodies and haunting vocals, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with in the alternative music scene.
Incubus graced the stage with their signature blend of alternative rock and introspective lyrics, captivating the crowd with their timeless hits. She Wants Revenge injected a dose of dark and brooding energy into the festival, captivating fans with their seductive and enigmatic performance. Each act brought their unique flavor to the festival, creating a diverse and unforgettable experience.
And then came the moment everyone had been eagerly awaiting: the headliners. Korn stormed the stage, commanding the attention of the entire crowd with their powerful and atmospheric sound. Their set was a journey through their early days, delivering hit after hit with precision and intensity. The crowd swayed and headbanged in unison, soaking in every moment of the band’s masterful performance.
Finally, the stage was set for the ultimate climax of the festival: System of a Down. The iconic alt-metal pioneers erupted onto the stage, sending shockwaves of energy through the crowd. Their politically charged anthems and visceral stage presence created a frenzied atmosphere, uniting fans in a collective catharsis. From “Chop Suey!” to “Toxicity,” each song was met with fervent cheers and a sea of hands in the air. System of a Down delivered a performance that will be etched in the memories of all who were fortunate enough to witness it.
Being part of the first-ever Sick New World Festival in Las Vegas was an exhilarating experience. The festival showcased an impressive lineup of talented artists, representing a wide range of rock and alternative genres. From the explosive opening acts to the monumental performances by Korn and System of a Down, the festival was a testament to the enduring power of live music. The energy, passion, and camaraderie among the fans created a sense of unity and excitement that will be cherished for years to come. Sick New World Festival has undoubtedly made its mark on the music scene, and its debut was an unforgettable celebration of rock and alternative music.
