Avenged Sevenfold’s “…Life is But a Dream” Third Leg Brought Fire to Connecticut’s Mohegan Sun Arena

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

r.m.music84@gmail.com

Avenged Sevenfold’s concert at Mohegan Sun Arena on Thursday, March 21st was an unforgettable experience, featuring an exciting lineup and captivating performances. As someone familiar with this venue for concerts but experiencing it for the first time while covering a show, the check-in process was seamless, thanks to the helpful on-site host, Aaron.

The night kicked off at 6:30 pm with Sullivan King, a Dubstep/metal DJ renowned for his dynamic performances. Hailing from Los Angeles, Sullivan King brought a unique twist to the stage with not just his music but also his visually stunning setup. The stage, elevated about 7 feet high with a catwalk attachment, added a sense of grandeur, while Sullivan King’s massive DJ setup, towering an additional 12-15 feet, created an imposing presence.What set Sullivan King apart was not just his musical prowess but also his mesmerizing visuals.

HD projected video visuals, lasers, and pyrotechnics synchronized perfectly with his beats, creating an immersive experience that filled the 10,000-person arena with energy. The crowd’s excitement was palpable, reverberating off the walls and likely spilling out into the adjacent casino.

Beyond the visuals, Sullivan King’s performance was a tour de force. He seamlessly transitioned between electronic beats, live guitar shredding, and intense vocals, showcasing his versatility as an artist. His set felt like a full-band experience rather than a one-person show, a testament to his stage presence and talent.

Following Sullivan King’s explosive set, Poppy took the stage, introducing the audience to her unique blend of music and persona. Despite her not allowing photography, which was disappointing for all of the photographers, Poppy’s performance still resonated with the audience. As is typically part of her persona, there was next to no audience interaction at all, save a few repetitive “you’re gonna be ok” or “I love you.”

While her style may not be my personal cup of tea, as I usually like it when the artists interact with the fans, there’s no denying the impact of her music and the dedication she has for her craft.

Originally known for her YouTube videos where she created an AI persona, Poppy has since evolved, especially with her 2020 release “I Disagree,” embracing a heavier, more metal sound with aggressive vocals and screams. Tracks like “BLOODMONEY” from this album showcased her transition into the metal genre, earning her a groundbreaking achievement as the first solo female artist to receive a Grammy nomination for best metal performance and solidifying her position as a versatile artist.

Poppy’s setlist was a mix of her earlier works and newer, heavier tracks, catering to a diverse audience. Songs like “Church Outfit,” “Bite Your Teeth,” and “X” demonstrated her evolution as an artist, with “Scary Mask” adding a unique twist to the performance with its intense energy and theatrical elements.

Finally, Avenged Sevenfold was ready to hit the stage, delivering a stellar performance that spanned their iconic tracks. As the lights dimmed, Kavinsky’s “Nightfall” began playing, made famous from the movie “Drive”. The thrashy, yet undeniably more experimental sound of “Game Over” set the tone, with Shadows sitting in a chair in a sweatshirt and ski mask, as he begins to rapid fire the opening lyrics of this new track, followed by “Mattel” and the sing-along favorite “Afterlife.”

The band’s diverse repertoire continued to impress with songs like the iconic “Hail to the King” and “We Love You“ showcasing not only their musical versatility but also their commanding stage presence. Zacky Vengeance and Synyster Gates continued their seamless exchange of killer guitar leads, each riff resonating with the audience, while Johnny Christ and Brooks Wackerman anchored the rhythm section with precision and power, driving the energy of the performance to new heights.

“Shepherd of Fire” injected a fiery intensity into the performance, setting the stage for the epic journey through “The Stage” and the haunting melodies of “Roman Sky.” Each song was delivered with impeccable musicianship and emotional depth, further captivating the audience and drawing them into the band’s sonic narrative.

As the concert progressed, tracks like “Blinded in Chains,” “Bat Country,” and “Nobody” kept the energy levels soaring, showcasing the band’s ability to maintain a high-octane atmosphere throughout their set. “Nightmare” and “Save Me” delved into the band’s musical complexity, highlighting their skillful composition and arrangement.

During “Unholy Confessions,” a beloved track for many fans, myself included, the crowd’s energy surged, resulting in a massive sing-along and igniting an even larger mosh pit, especially during the electrifying breakdown that has become a staple of their live performances. This moment epitomized the band’s ability to connect with their audience on a visceral level, creating an unforgettable live experience.

The set concluded with the other-worldly “Cosmic,” a daring and experimental piece that once again pushed the boundaries of their sound. Despite its unconventional nature, the song captivated the audience, transporting them into a realm of awe and excitement. With Matt Shadows leading the charge on vocals, delivering raw emotion and powerful lyrics, and the entire band delivering flawless instrumentals, Avenged Sevenfold’s performance was not just a display of their enduring musical abilities but also a testament to their innate ability to captivate and enthrall audiences, making the concert an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.