Godsmack & Staind Shake Up Holmdel NJ’s PNC Bank Arts Center with Mix Master Mike

Ryan Murray | Co-Owner | Chief Editor | Contributor | Photographer

r.m.music84@gmail.com

Holmdel, NJ’s PNC Bank Arts Center witnessed an electrifying display of hard rock on Saturday July 29th, as the mighty Godsmack took the stage amidst a lineup that promised nothing short of auditory thunder. However, the night wasn’t without its share of hiccups. The anticipation was palpable, yet we all had to wait a bit later than anticipated, as two photographers experienced some photo pass issues, causing a slight delay in allowing us to capture the raw energy on stage. Thankfully, our escort guided us through the chaos, ensuring we got to shoot at least a few shots for the opener.

Kicking off the evening was Mix Master Mike. I wasn’t sure what I thought of a DJ opening up a hard rock show for Godsmack and Staind, but his turntable transported the crowd into a realm of rhythmic frenzy, and the energy from the crowd was already kicking up. The pulsating beats and scratching sounds resonated with the eager audience, with some Beastie Boys throwbacks as well as some more modern hard rock jams all mixed in, truly setting the stage for an unforgettable night of music.

As the clock ticked and the anticipation grew, the heavens themselves seemed to join the spectacle. A severe thunderstorm crashed the party, interrupting the show and sending everyone scrambling for cover. Rain poured, lightning cracked across the sky, and the showground transformed into a dramatic battleground between nature’s fury and the unwavering spirit of the show to come.

But as the storm raged on, the resilience of both the bands and the audience prevailed. The delay caused Staind’s set to start a roaring 20 minutes later than expected, but when they finally took the stage, the atmosphere crackled with an energy that only Mother Nature’s chaos could evoke. The delay had only fueled the crowd’s anticipation, resulting in an eruption of cheers as Staind launched into their set, belting out hit after hit with a fervor that defied the storm’s disruption. Evoking nostalgia and emotion was the name of the game as Aaron Lewis’s vocals ripped through even the hardest of hearts, especially with his acoustic solo performance of “Epiphany”, a long held favorite for many including myself. Nostalgic tracks such as “Fade”, “Right Here” and “So Far Away” were met with deafening sing alongs, while closing their set with “Mudshovel” saw the peak of the band’s energy on stage.

Setlist:

Lowest in Me

Not Again

Just Go

Eyes Wide Open

Fade

Something to Remind You

Epiphany (Aaron Lewis Acoustic Solo)
Right Here

Outside

Wannabe

So Far Away

For You

It’s Been Awhile

Mudshovel

Godsmack, the night’s headliner, needed no introduction as they unleashed a torrent of hits that resonated deep within the hearts of their fans. Opening with a Mix Master Mike video intro, the band ripped into their 3 song opener, which included “When Legends Rise”, Cryin’ Like a Bitch!!” and “1000hp”. With each power chord, riff and thunderous drumbeat, the crowd became an extension of the music, and the connection between the band and the fans was palpable.

Godsmack’s set was a relentless assault on the senses. Sully Erna’s commanding presence took center stage, his vocals intertwining seamlessly with the thunderous rhythm section.

The crowd was treated to a symphony of hits that spanned Godsmack’s illustrious career, from the bone-crushing riffs of “Awake” to the haunting melodies of “Voodoo.” The interplay between the band members was electrifying, each note and chord resonating through the amphitheater with an irresistible energy.

Pyrotechnics illuminated the night sky, accentuating the raw power of the music and sending shockwaves of excitement through the crowd. The sensory assault was heightened by a visually stunning backdrop, creating a multi-dimensional experience that immersed the audience in Godsmack’s world.

As the set reached its climax, the collective energy of the crowd merged with the band’s unwavering passion, resulting in an explosive finale that left everyone breathless and craving more. As the final notes reverberated through the rain-soaked air, it was clear that this was a night that would be etched into each and everyone’s mind for a long time.

Setlist:

When Legends Rise

Criyin’ Like a Bitch!!

1000hp

You and I

Something Different

What About Me

Bulletproof

Awake

Surrender

Keep Away

Voodoo