Queensrÿche The Verdict Tour packs out The Underground

Queensryche at The Underground in Charlotte North Carolina

By: Michael Bragg (Photo Gallery & Review) of MJBragg Photography

Charlotte, NC (February 22nd, 2020) – If you were not at The Underground tonight you missed out is all I can say. The legendary Queensrÿche made a stop in the Queen City as part of their “The Verdict” tour supporting their latest album release of the same name. As a sold out crowd lined the side walks waiting for entry the anticipation and excitement continuously grew. With guests John 5 and Eve To Adam on the bill as well tonight was sure to be filled with high energy rock and roll.

As Eve To Adam took the stage it seemed they quickly diminished any doubts of those in the crowd who had not seen them before. Winning over new fans the band was in high gear from the start. Heavy guitar driven riffs with a solid foundation of bass and drums provided the backing for soaring vocals melodies. Songs like “Immortal,” “Straightjacket Supermodel,” and “Day Drinking” the band had the crowd cheering them on with fists pumping in the air. Having done their job, hyping up the crowd Eve To Adam left the stage leaving a lasting impression and earning more fans.

Next up was guitarist John 5 and The Creatures. I had previously seen John perform in Rob Zombie’s band twice before and back in November I saw him for the first time as a solo artist. That night I was taken by surprise at the talent he has that I had not known. Since then I’ve wanted to see his show again. When people think of iconic guitar players the name of Hendrix, Clapton, Eddie Van Halen, Stevie Ray Vaughn and more come to mind. John 5 is definitely a name to be added to that list. In my opinion he is just as good and can out play some of those that are often mentioned. The versatility of styles he is able to play effortlessly is amazing. From the heavy rock infused riffs to Nashville chicken picking and everything in between John 5 covers it all. If his abilities on guitar aren’t already enough he adds in mandolin and banjo moments in his set as well with an array of facial expressions and masks changing characters providing just as much visual entertainment as audible. Through out John 5’s set you could see the “wow factor” look over and over again on many faces amongst the crowd. Closing out his set with a medley of popular rock hits John 5 exited the stage leaving the packed out venue of fans ready for tonight’s headliner.

Currently in their 40th year with over 20 million albums sold and a brand new album it seems their’s no stopping Queensrÿche. Out supporting their latest release, “The Verdict” the musical veterans have been touring since early January with only two dates left. You would think the energy of the show may wind down a bit on the late leg of a tour but these guys didn’t waiver a bit. From the start all 5 members provided an intense powerful performance. With the dual guitar work of Michael Wilton and Parker Lundgren fans were eating up their amazing fretboard skills along with bassist Eddie Jackson and drummer Casey Grillo holding down the grooves and timing. Standing front and center is the bands singer Todd La Torre. As a long time fan of Queensrÿche I was a bit intrigued to see Todd perform live. It’s always hard for a band to change a frontman and maintain momentum. Along the way their comes lots of criticism from loyal listeners and many refuse to support someone new, even if they’ve been with the band 8yrs now. I stand firmly behind this statement that if you choose not to go see a band because they have a new singer you are missing out on a great show. Todd commanded the stage and his vocals filled the room as he sang through a set list of classic Queensrÿche hits. Songs such as “Silent Lucidity” and “Jet City Woman” were staples from the show but other cuts like “Queen Of The Reich” and “No Sanctuary” had fans begging for more as the whole venue could be seen headbanging along to the music. Even former MTV Headbanger’s Ball host Riki Rachtman could be seen in the crowd throwing around his new long hair style.

The band made sure to include songs from “The Verdict” album as well such as “Bent” and “Light Years” which was a part of a 4 song encore. During the show Todd asked the crowd for a show of hands if it was your first time seeing the band. Seeming genuinely shocked when nearly half the crowd responded Todd stated that as long as people are coming to shows they would keep playing. This tour may be ending but I’m sure there will be more dates through out 2020. Don’t hesitate to attend and miss out on a great time. You’ll definitely regret it.

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Copyright – Michael Bragg/MJBragg Photography

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