By: Michael Bragg (Photo Gallery & Review) of MJBragg Photography
Charlotte, NC (March 26th, 2019) – Anyone who has been a fan of the rock band Sick Puppies may have been wondering where former lead singer Shimone Moore has been…well let me tell you #ShimIsBack
After a 4yr hiatus full of ups and downs and lots of self reflection Shim has been hard at work getting back to the music. With the release of a new self titled solo album “SHIM” and his current “Crucified” tour he rolled into Charlotte, NC this evening along with Madame Mayhem for a stop at the recently reopened Amos’ Southend.
“Ray Deez Test” Copyright – Michael Bragg / MJBragg Photography
With local openers Ray Deez Test and Butterfly Corpse priming the audience with their captivating stage presence and original rock music the crowd was ready for direct support artist Madame Mayhem.
“Butterfly Corpse” Copyright – Michael Bragg / MJBragg Photography
I’ve got to be honest, before this tour I had not heard of Madame Mayhem myself. However, with a little pre-show listening and studying of the band I became eager to see them live. Having received many accolades from some of music’s most notable outlets, playing some of the most recognizable venues across the country and collaborating with members of groups like Sevendust, Evanescence, David Bowie, Ozzy Osbourne and more my interest was peaked.
“Madame Mayhem” Copyright – Michael Bragg / MJBragg Photography
With a set packed full of raw rock ‘n’ roll energy the group opened the show with “War You Started” from the 2017 album “Ready For Me” followed by “Stand Up” and “Innocent” from the same release. Headbanging with fist in the air “Mayhem” instantly had the crowd in their hands. With a stage presence demanding of your attention the 5 piece group held nothing back. The female fronted band easily had me making comparisons to other groups like Halestorm, In This Moment, Lita Ford and Dorothy. I personally think there are not enough female rock singers who get the credit they deserve and it was nice to see “Madame” hold the crowds attention through out the set showing you don’t have to be a man to rock.
“Broken” is the newest single release from the group which was co-written with Keith Wallen of Breaking Benjamin. With its catchy hooks and driving guitar riffs the song bares an essence that is missed in the current main stream rock radio format. A song about being strong and standing up for yourself, you could feel the emotion of the words and music from the bands performance.
“Madame Mayhem” Copyright – Michael Bragg / MJBragg Photography
Madame Mayhem went on to mix the set up with some tunes from the 2015 album release “Now You Know” with “Left For Dead” and “Monster” before closing their part of the show with “Something Better (Now You Know).”
If you’re into rock music with nu-metal edge this is definitely a group I recommend checking out…you won’t be disappointed.
“SHIM” Copyright – Michael Bragg / MJBragg Photography
Having been a long time fan of Sick Puppies myself and seeing the original line up several times I can say having seen them without frontman Shimone Moore was a bit different. I had found myself missing his style of writing that made the band popular so it was definitely nice to see the news of his return.
Taking to the stage with a renewed energy it was easy to see the excitement and joy flow through not only Shim but the entire band. Walking out on to the stage Shim immediately made an exit right into the crowd before a note was even played shaking hands and pulling fans in closer. Making his way back to the microphone and guitar the band started things off with “A Brand New War.” This seemed like the perfect way to introduce the new revived Shim. A song about standing your ground, fighting for what you want despite others who may try to knock you down. With an album full of songs of inspiration of overcoming tough times Shim showcased a new and improved sound. You can very much hear the old Sick Puppies style but with progression and new ideas. Fans ate up the new songs that showcased an eclectic variety from in your face rock with songs like “Crucified” and the crowd interactive sing along “Hallelujah” to some softer songs such as “All Of Me,” “Our Time” and the anthemic “Fearless.” There was a nice blend of various influences from some gospel sounding backing vocal parts to pop infused hooks all showcased around the realm of Shim’s recognizable rock style.
“SHIM” Copyright – Michael Bragg / MJBragg Photography
What I found just as intriguing as the music being played is the way Shim interacted with the fans in attendance. Taking moments to point out some individuals, bring them closer to the stage and have short one on one speaking moments with them. The appreciation shown for his fans was done in a way I have not seen before.
Referencing his former band briefly Shim made note that sometimes things don’t always go the way you planned but those times still make a part of who you Have become. Mentioning how he has listened back to some of the former songs he expressed how as time passes the meaning of what you wrote can take on a new direction and hit you differently as he led into “Maybe” from his former group featuring the line “Maybe it’s time to change.” The band also included other popular Sick Puppies songs “Rip Tide” and “War” before closing out the night with a powerful performance of “Sting Like A Bitch.”
I know sometimes people may have doubts about an artist or band when there’s member changes or someone breaks off to do solo stuff, I’m guilty of those doubts myself. Sometimes you listen to those former bands/artists after the changes and it’s just not there for you. They come to town and you just can’t make yourself go to the show or pick up the newest release…I get it.
With Shim you better do yourself a favor and check out the album then get out to a show. If you don’t you may regret it. I was pleasantly surprised at the progression of his artistry and the new sounds from Shim. A nice breath of fresh air to hear something real in music again that is different than your current typical radio station playlist. Maybe some time soon mainstream will start listening to fans and play real artist again like Shim and the aforementioned Madame Mayhem instead of the corporate cookie cutter mess.
Shim
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Madame Mayhem
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Butterfly Corpse
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Ray Deez Test
