A Rock Resurrection: Theory of a Deadman, Saint Asonia, and Skillet Unleash Musical Fury at Foxwoods

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

r.m.music84@gmail.com

This past Sunday, Foxwoods’ Premiere Theater witnessed an electrifying showcase of hard rock music when Theory of a Deadman’s Rock Resurrection Tour made its way to Mashantucket, CT. With direct support from Saint Asonia and Skillet, nearly 4,000 fans of all ages were treated to an electrifying evening! The Premiere Theater proved to be the perfect setting for a night of high-energy performances, with an incredible sound system, a great house mix, and great lighting as well!

With a seamless pickup of my press credentials at the box office, I headed inside to get ready for what promised to be a great evening!

Saint Asonia, led by Three Days Grace founder and ex-frontman Adam Gontier, opened the night by setting the stage ablaze with a performance that immediately commanded attention, and the fans answered in kind with roars of excitement. Having followed Adam’s musical journey since my introduction to Three Days Grace in 2003 and witnessing them live in 2004, I had already come with an anticipation to witness a magnetic stage presence and emotionally charged vocals reminiscent of his time with Three Days Grace, and they certainly exceeded my expectations.

Having first discovered Saint Asonia in 2019 with “Flawed Design,” this show marked my first live experience with them. The growth and evolution since the band’s inception is unmistakable, and the incredible musicianship and chemistry the band possesses make it clear that Saint Asonia has not only solidified their place in the rock scene but continues to carve out a unique and compelling identity. Their live performance not only surpassed my expectations but also left me eagerly anticipating the next chapter in their musical journey.

During Mike Mushok’s extended leave due to personal obligations, Art of Dying’s Tanis Stanley graciously stepped in to cover the tour, seamlessly maintaining the band’s momentum. Tavis’ leads were impeccable, delivering shredding solos with his unique touch while preserving the overall sound and style.

The band expertly interwove their signature hard-hitting rock originals with classics from Adam’s tenure with Three Days Grace, such as “I Hate Everything About You,” “Never Too Late,” and even Apocalyptica’s “I Don’t Care.” This fusion showcased a musical maturity signifying a captivating artistic evolution. The unpredictability of their setlist kept the audience riveted, underscoring the idea that Saint Asonia transcends mere nostalgia, emerging as a collective relentlessly pushing the boundaries of their musical identity.

Setlist:

Better Place
Above It All
Devastate
Never Too Late (Three Days Grace Cover)
I Hate Everything About You (TDG Cover)
I Don’t Care (Apocalyptica Cover)
Wolf
Let Me Live My Life

Next, Skillet took the stage, unveiling a performance best described as explosive. Their energy permeated the entire theater, with fans growing louder and more excited by the second. The symbiotic connection between the band and the audience nurtured a collective spirit, seamlessly transforming thousands of fans into one united heartbeat.

Skillet’s set took the audience on a rollercoaster of energy, seamlessly navigating between intense hard rock and intimate moments. The band’s adeptness at blending hard-hitting rock with reflective interludes added depth to their performance, captivating the audience from start to finish. The visually striking stage production, featuring dynamic lighting, pervasive CO₂ blasts, and mechanical elevated platforms lifting Korey, Seth, and cellist Tate Olsen higher and higher, beautifully complemented Skillet’s sonic intensity. This orchestrated fusion created a multi-sensory experience that left an indelible impression on the audience.

Even throughout the performance of “Monster,” John himself stood atop a colossal monster prop adorned with glowing eyes, accompanied by additional bursts of CO₂ emanating from within the monstrous creation.

A noteworthy moment for me occurred just before “Hero.” Skillet, known for openly expressing their Christian faith, particularly their trust in Jesus, resonated with me as a fellow Christian. John’s discussion of his faith was a poignant and meaningful moment, echoed not only by me but also by many in the crowd, as evidenced by the resounding cheers.

Setlist:

Feel Invincible
Rise
Surviving the Game
Legendary
Awake and Alive
Hero
Not Gonna Die
Whispers in the Dark
Psycho in my Head
Be Thou My Vision (Eleanor Hull Cover)
Comatose
Finish Line (w/ Adam Gontier)
Monster
Rebirthing
The Resistance

Just before Theory of a Deadman took the stage, the venue began playing “Sweet Caroline”, which of course thousands of people couldn’t help but to belt out the chorus! Right after the song ended, suddenly the lights dimmed and the stage filled with ominous smoke, green and purple lighting. The screams of joy and happiness filled the entire space.

Their raw and gritty performance showcased their versatility, moving effortlessly between hard-hitting rock anthems and more soulful hits such as “Santa Monica” and “Angel”. The band’s connection with the audience was evident, and the crowd’s response was nothing short of enthusiastic. Frontman Tyler Connolly’s charismatic stage presence, both during songs and between songs added a personal touch to the performance, forging a connection that resonated beyond the music.

Having, of course, been familiar with the band’s music for quite some time, I’ve always held a respect for their musicianship and sound. It’s evident that they excel at their craft. However, to be candid, they hadn’t been my favorite band. It was never a negative judgment; they simply weren’t my immediate go-to. Witnessing their live performance, though, has altered that perspective. The immense energy they bring to the stage, coupled with their outstanding musicianship and live vocals, particularly their harmonies, elevated them several notches in my esteem.

Theory of a Deadman’s stage presence attested to their enduring influence in the rock scene. The emotional richness of their softer, soulful tracks resonated deeply, while the intensity of their heavier songs sparked a tangible energy that brought everyone in attendance together.

Overall, Foxwoods’ Premiere Theater provided an intimate yet electric atmosphere for this triple-threat rock show. Each band brought something unique to the table, making it a night that won’t soon be forgotten by the nearly 4,000 fans lucky enough to have been in attendance. The combination of venue, talent, and passionate performances created a rock spectacle that exceeded expectations, leaving concertgoers eagerly anticipating the next opportunity to experience such a memorable night of music.

Setlist:

Dinosaur
Bitch Came Back
Two of Us (Stuck)
Not Meant to Be
Lowlife
Santa Monica
Wicked Game (Chris Isaak Cover)
Don’t Stop Believin’ (Journey Cover)
All or Nothing
Ambulance
Friends in Low Places (Garth Brooks cover)
Angel
Hate My Life
Rx (Medicate)
Paradise City (Guns N’ Roses Cover)
Walk (Pantera Cover)
Song 2 (Blur Cover)
Bad Girlfriend