By: Michael Bragg (Photo Gallery & Review) of MJBragg Photography
Charlotte, NC (9/13/21) – Metal Monday is a thing right? If not then maybe it should be, especially in Charlotte, NC. Tonight’s show saw fans fill in to the PNC Music Pavilion for a night of fist pumping and head banging. After having been postponed due to covid Judas Priest was finally able to bring their “50 Heavy Metal Years” tour out on the road making the Queen City their 4th stop along with support act Sabaton.
Sabaton
Website • Facebook • Instagram • ITunes • Spotify • YouTube • Twitter •
Hailing from Sweden the metal band Sabaton has gained a huge following across the big pond. If their set tonight is any indication they are well on their way to doing the same here in the states. Formed in 1999 by founding members Joakim Brodén (vocalist) and Par Sundström (bass) the bands music focuses more on the theme of war by celebrating heroes and survivors. The group encompasses all aspects of the theme from their lyrics to the stage set up that feature mic stands made of replica guns and war helmets to the massive drum riser resembling a tank. Sabaton featured songs such as “Ghost Division,” “Fields of Verdun” and “Swedish Pagans” that drew fans to their feet. As the band closed their set the crowd chanted the bands name with the lights fading and giving way to the nights legendary headliner.
Judas Priest
Website • Facebook • Instagram • ITunes • Spotify • YouTube • Twitter •
As the intro music began band members took their places in the shadows. In an instant the lights came up and Judas Priest broke out in song kicking things off with “One Shot at Glory.” The group would go on to play a multitude of hits spanning the bands 50yr history. Obvious hits like “You’ve Got Another Thing Coming,” “Breaking The Law” and “Living After Midnight” were set staples and fan favorite sing alongs. Throughout the show the group include many deep cuts satisfying those die hard fans as well. The heavy metal legends fronted by the 70yr old Rob Halford held nothing back as they worked the stage and crowd with a youthful energy. Drummer Scott Travis held the band together as Ian Hill provided some driving bass lines. Richie Faulkner and Andy Sneap pulled duel guitar duties with electrifying riffs and lead work. The group of seasoned musicians provided an exhilarating night of memories and a dynamic trip through a 50 year history of music that has defined a genre for a generation of metal enthusiasts. Coming up on October 15th, 2021 the band will be releasing a limited edition box set that will allow you to experience this trip through musical history. The collection will include every studio and live album release the band has put out as well as a large collection of previously unreleased material. In the meantime you can still catch the band out on tour with dates listed through November 5th of 2021.
Do not alter photos
Copyright – Michael Bragg/MJBragg Photography
