#Sevendust Jordan Buford Photography

[jordanbufordphotography]

Sevendust at The Bomb Factory in Dallas, Texas. (October 12th, 2016)

[themusicenthusiast]

Sunday, September 23rd, 2018 – Sevendust Prevails Despite a Dim Situation, Exhilarating their Dallas Fan Base

Photos by Jordan Buford Photography One doesn’t typically think of Sevendust as being a support band. They’re certainly more than capable of it, but over the past couple of decades (and then some), the relentless touring that the group that originated from Atlanta has done has earned them a spot at the forefront of the metal/hard rock realm. Their fan base is rabid, easily one of the most dedicated legions of supporters of any band out there, with more converts continuously added to it, constantly allowing Sevendust to rock more spacious venues than before. Because of that, that’s why it was a bit interesting to see Sevendust joining Clutch on the Book of Bad Decisions Tour, not as a co-headline run – as it easily could have been – but as the main support act. At the same time, it made sense. Both bands are as loud and intense as they come (and apparently, the members of Clutch happened upon Sevendust when both bands where still in the early days of their respective careers, making this a reunion of sorts), making for a topnotch, quality pairing. Also, given how supportive fans of both acts are, it seemed mutually beneficial to team up, allowing Sevendust a chance to win over some Clutch fans that might not be too familiar with their music and vice versa. That said, Gas Monkey Live was packed to the gills, fans of both acts from Dallas and elsewhere in North Texas turning out in full force to catch the spectacular show that was sure to unfold; and 7D’s supporters were ready for a taste of new music from the recently released All I See is War (out via Rise Records) along with whatever else was planned. The fanfare was deafening as Morgan Rose stepped out into view, the drummer taking his spot with his other band mates not far behind.

The shadows concealed them, the booming voice of Lajon Witherspoon seeming to come out of nowhere as the frontman suddenly asked, “Do you know who are?!” He repeated it a couple more times, pumping up the audience. “Dirty” kicked it all off, the lead cut from the months old record perfectly representing everything that Sevendust is. A behemoth of a track, it was utterly commanding and demanded everyone listen. The seismic track was even a fan favorite, quite a few patrons singing along with the refrain, “…I know it's hard for you to believe I'm gonna die whole…”. The quintet had a mere 41-minutes to work with, which, albeit short, was at least conducive of the most high-energy set that they could muster as they opted for as many hits as possible so that their supporters would feel appeased. “Denial” was one such offering, Clint Lowery and Vince Hornsby, the lead guitarist and bassist, respectively, doing everything they could to further energize everyone. Lowery especially was frequently seen mouthing along to the words, almost encouraging the audience members to shout along with them, gesturing with his hands as if to signal they wanted more from them; and he even throw out a decent number of picks as well.

They absolutely threw down on that one, an overwhelming intensity radiating from the stage, hitting their stride as they prepared to further up the expectations. It was almost as if they wanted to squeeze all the energy associated with their headline performances into this shorter set, and thus far they were well on track to accomplish that. The musicians didn’t have much time to build a rapport with the spectators through dialogue, though Witherspoon did get a chance to speak once that song was finished. He somewhat reflected on their lengthy career, estimating that they had been on thousands of “decks” in their time, though gracing this particular one was a first for them. He thanked Gas Monkey Live for having them there, even recalling some other spots they had played on previous trips to Dallas before asking everyone if they wanted to hear something new. The audience was game. “Unforgiven” was the only other number they worked in from All I See is War, but what a choice. It just reaffirmed that the five of them are master craftsmen when it comes to writing pulse-pounding, anthemic songs. As intense as it was, the rhythm section easily taking charge, it was still infectious, demanding the listener just give themselves over to the music. To be blunt, they killed it, that number capturing everything that Sevendust is about, just loud and heavy metal/alt-rock that was perfect to bang your head along to.

“Can you feel the energy right now?!” Witherspoon questioned afterwards before practically demanding to see everyone’s hands, even those way in the back. They were only halfway in and they were epitomizing what a support band is supposed to be by pumping everyone up and working them into a frenzied state. Shortly after they ventured back to some of their earliest albums, pulling out several staples that longtime fans have come to expect. Despite the limitations imposed on them by the clock they still managed to squeeze in most of the major highlights alongside the obligatory new material; “Bitch” being primed as a sing along, and at the behest of the frontman plenty of people aided Sevendust by chiming in. Preceding their closing number was a chanting of the band’s name, steadily growing stronger as more joined in. It was an overwhelming display of adoration, a respect relatively few bands are ever afforded and just spoke to what high regard most of those in attendance hold Sevendust. Their fans are a breed all their own and that is meant in the best possible way. Hell, most music fans could stand to take some pointers from how they do it.

“Thank You” acted as their parting number, the song being open to interpretation to an extent and live it plays out like a gracious compliment to their supporters as much as anything. Arguably their most polished song of the night – boasting a more prominent hard rock style with only a slight metal edge – there’s still some grit to it and it packed a punch. Seeming like a slightly odd choice at first, “Thank You” has since more than earned its spot as the show closer, even allowing for some optimism as they left everyone hungry for more. Even by Sevendust’s standards the performance aspect of this show was topnotch, Hornsby, Connolly, Lowery, Rose and Witherspoon packing in all of the vigor of a headline gig and then some into those 41-minutes. However, the show did falter in an area that was out of their control: the lighting department. If you’ve seen Sevendust even just once before than you know they have a fondness for darker lighting. That may be somewhat of a cliché when it comes to metal and hard rock bands, but that’s instrumental in the way that these guys present themselves and it works incredibly well. It’s moody and enigmatic, pairing well with the music; and while I’ve seen them a few times in the past, I’ve never been given reason to say this before, however, the lighting was downright terrible this night.

It wasn’t just used minimally or sparingly, but rather almost nonexistent. For much of their time on stage patrons were left wondering what they were watching, having to strain in order to see the soft outlines of the figures moving around on stage. Rare flashes would illuminate the musicians, though those were fleeting and offered momentary glimpses at best. I overheard plenty of people complaining about it afterwards. That included some spectators who were new to Sevendust and essentially wrote them off because of that. That was disheartening to hear because they are a superb live band that is armed with a barrage of dynamic songs that are capable of resonating with the listener, but some of those people sounded adamant that their minds had been made up, shutting the door on the possibility of ever giving Sevendust another shot. As I said, I don’t hold that against the band, but it did drastically affect the show overall, even avid fans being left making casual remarks like, “I wish I could have seen what they were doing. They did sound great, though.” And they did. The sound was outstanding, and even if you could seldom see it you could feel their might. The way the five of them handle and finesse an audience is a spectacle, the energy and aggression they put into their performance being palpable. It was sure was this night, even if other factors were working against it. For those who did see Sevendust this night and came out feeling indifferent at best, I encourage you to give them another chance, be it the next time they come to town or even by listening to some of their records. This Gas Monkey Live gig wasn’t a fair representation of what they’re capable of, these road warriors having been molded into one of the greatest live bands out there. Their tour continues for a while longer, and rest assured more dates will be coming as 2019 approaches. A full list of their touring schedule can be found HERE; and check out their records on iTUNES or GOOGLE PLAY. Set List: 1) “Dirty” 2) “Face to Face” 3) “Denial” 4) “Unforgiven” 5) “Waffle” 6) “Too Close to Hate” 7) “Bitch” 8) “Thank You”

[jordanbufordphotography]

Sevendust at Gas Monkey Live in Dallas, Texas. (September 23rd, 2018)

[jordanbufordphotography]

Sevendust at River City Rockfest at AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. (May 29th, 2016)

[themusicenthusiast]

Sunday, September 23rd, 2018 – Clutch Shares Tales From ‘Book of Bad Decisions’ and Then Some During a Fiery Performance at Dallas’ Gas Monkey Live

Photos by Jordan Buford Photography The fact that Clutch has managed to remain such an indomitable force in the music world doesn’t seem to be talked about often enough. At least not as much as the band probably deserves. During a career that has spanned well over a couple of decades they’ve managed to avoid any of the drama that often befalls other groups, the original core lineup having remained intact. Their early records were clearly products of the ‘90s era of music, the brash traits that defined Clutch’s early years never being lost completely even as they ultimately refined their sound, those heavy tendencies transitioning into more of an alt-rock/hard rock sound. One that is distinctly their own. The point is that Clutch has managed to evolve and grow with the ever-changing industry. One could even say that the outfit has constantly been at the forefront of it, helping to shape modern rock ‘n’ roll; and they have consistently remained relevant to it. That’s no truer than now. They are still a staple on the festival circuit, and their last few albums have scored some respectable positions on the charts, including the two-week old Book of Bad Decisions (out on Weathermaker Music), which debuted at the number sixteenth spot. An impressive feat to say the least, especially when considering their company on the Billboard 200 is largely pop artists. Neil Fallon, Tim Sult, Dan Maines and Jean-Paul Gaster weren’t wasting any time in taking to the road to support their twelfth studio album, having embarked on the Book of Bad Decisions Tour within the past week. Texas was one of the first states they were visiting; and on this particular Sunday night they were returning to Gas Monkey Live in Dallas to treat their North Texas fans to some of the new stuff they had created.

One thing is certain, the significant of Clutch’s music doesn’t escape their loyal supporters, droves of which had turned out to Gas Monkey Live to witness the spectacle that was transpiring on this Sunday night. It was a relatively diverse crowd, comprised largely of the longtime fans one would expect to see, though there were also quite a few kids, ranging from teenagers to legitimate kids whose parents had brought them out to experience a band that had been important to them. And said kids were giddy about it. Clutch has assembled an eclectic lineup of acts to support them on this tour, though extremely talented ones, Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown getting the night off to an electrifying start, while Sevendust brought the intensity during their brief, heavy set. By the time both were through, to say spectators were pumped up for Clutch performance would be a massive understatement. It was 9:51 when Fallon, Sult, Maines and Gaster strolled out onto the stage, and the manner in which they did made them all the more appealing. There was no grand or theatrical entrance. Instead, the four of them just casually assumed their spots, looking more like a bunch of average guys preparing to go to work rather than rock stars. Which only strengthened that rock star quality.

“Welcome to the party!” Fallon declared as he paced about the stage and surveyed the hundreds and hundreds of screaming fans, properly greeting everyone before they unleashed their adrenaline pumping assault on them. Nearly half of their 81-minute long set was comprised of cuts from Book of Bad Decisions, the lead track from the record, “Gimme the Keys”, setting everything in motion. The casual demeanor they had exhibited during those initial moments quickly gave way to chaotic actions as the wall of sound they proceeded to crank out collided with the concertgoers’ ears. That number provided a sensational start to Clutch’s performance. Live listeners were able to fully appreciate the nuances of the powerhouse track, such as the way the percussion and bass coalesced around Fallon’s voice, particularly as he belted out, “Gimme the keys!”. It made him sound even more authoritative; his booming voice portraying that more as a command than a request, while the eye contact and intense stares he gave made it feel as if he was speaking directly to every soul in the room.

They didn’t require any time to warm up, flooring it from the get-go and already appearing in excellent form; their hold over the spectators being absolute. You had to be there to fully appreciate it, but it was incredible. The floor shook slightly due to the sonorous drums and blaring guitar and bass; the spirited performance making it impossible to look away. Rock ‘n’ roll at its finest. “Vision Quest” allowed them to hit with a one-two punch, the frantic pace it keeps further energizing everyone. Sult’s mastery of the guitar was apparent on it, his methodical and intricate manner of playing – the tones he painstakingly crafted – shining through at various moments.

“If you didn’t get the memo, we have a new album out…” Fallon declared afterwards, informing the audience that they would be hearing plenty more from it and promising to pull some “old ones out of the pantry” as well. Quickly delivering on that, they launching into a string of songs found on their self-titled record, much to the delight of the fans. All were gems, though “Escape from the Prison Planet” stood out as an early favorite, thanks to it highlighting a more primal Clutch. The instrumental end (which felt like something of a jam) was nothing short of epic, Gaster going all out as he hammered away at his kit with a splendid mix of passion and precision, not merely loving it but getting a euphoric rush from knocking that one out.

The music was the primary focus of the night, though shortly after that one Fallon, in tune with the crowd, took a moment to discourage any rough antics such as crowd surfing. He began by saying he didn’t want to police anyone and whatever was fine by him, though he did point out that several young kids (many of whom were proudly sporting Clutch attire) were front and center, and he didn’t want to see this become their last rock show. “Your parents are cooler than mine were…” he then quipped, enjoying the fact that some of their longtime fans were turning their love of Clutch into a family tradition. Their set list was well structured, old and new material being spread evenly throughout, so regardless of if people loved it all or were only all about the classics they were going to be appeased. In regards to the new, “Ghoul Wrangler” was perhaps the most stunning of the Book of Bad Decisions material. Stunning because like a lot of the stuff they did from the new album, it could be considered something of a deeper cut, yet they made it out to be a definitive song from it. For those who hadn’t spent much time with the new album yet it was the perfect introduction to that exhilarating number, its gripping dynamics only enhanced by the live environment. Fallon’s pronunciation of “Ghoul Wrangler” alone is fascinating; the way the song blends a sort of Southern edge to its driven hard rock style yielding something unique.

As amazing as the first half of the set had been, the second half saw Clutch kicking it into overdrive as they constantly seemed to outdo themselves. The fans relished the rare treat that was “El Jefe Speaks”, the oldest song of the night being revamped in a way that spliced together the sounds of where they were at then with what they’re creating now. It only made it more potent, Maines and Gaster guiding the song between its ominous verses and pulse pounding refrains, while the tones emanating from the guitar proved intoxicating. The throng of supporters were already well-versed with some of the weeks-old stuff, most collectively shouting the final “WEAPONIZED FUNK!” of “In Walks Barbarella” when Fallon silently directed them to assist. And as Clutch’s initial 66-minutes on stage began to wind down, the people were elated to see a cowbell and harmonica brought out on stage, knowing just what that meant. “D.C. Sound Attack!” provided a fiery end to what had been a powerhouse set -- one certainly not lacking in the rock department; the track being made all the more riveting thanks to the instrumental outro that concluded it.

After the musicians disappeared a couple of minutes passed, the ensuing fanfare done in hopes of drawing them back out, while others shouted their requests of what they still hoped to hear. There was no way Clutch could appease everyone, though Maines, Gaster, Sult and Fallon did have a few more in the chamber, including the final track from Book of Bad Decisions. “We appreciate y’all coming out,” Fallon stated before they got back to it. He was sincere in his gratitude to everyone for coming out, stressing that they didn’t take it for granted and knew that if those supporters weren’t there then there was no way they would be. A moody, even atmospheric rocker, “Lorelei” was as impressive as everything that had preceded it and highlighted just how mighty Clutch is, that in terms of quality every new track they had performed was at least on par with their most revered hits, if not even surpassing them. It made for a proper bookend of sorts, given they had begun and practically ended their show with the first and final tracks from the release.

And speaking of hits, they dusted a couple off of From Beale Street To Oblivion, resulting in one last raucous sing-along for the night. Clutch left having delivered the quintessential concert experience, making it thrilling throughout, their robust and even somewhat brash way of conducting themselves being utterly compelling. That’s what makes them such a force to be reckoned with, the fact that Fallon, Gaster, Sult and Maines do everything possible to invigorate concertgoers, the way they handle themselves being conducive of everyone else letting loose, succumbing to the music and just relishing the reprieve from everyday life that is provided. That can largely be attributed to the creative nature of their writing, everything about their material being cutting edge, sounding familiar enough to be appealing but also setting them apart from their contemporaries. However, the overwhelming charisma they wield isn’t to be overlooked either.

Fallon does bear the bulk of that responsibility, given that he is the most capable of moving about and interacting with onlookers, and he excels at it, his boisterous, at times even eccentric movements and behavior only enhancing their riveting hold. And after all of these years, they’re arguably better than ever. My first time actually catching a Clutch show came a few years ago and I was immediately struck by their raw power, something that seemed to be even more prevalent on this night. Maybe it was because the Book of Bad Decisions Tour is just getting underway, or possibly they’ve been eager to start playing these songs live and are enjoying finally being able to. Either way, they were spectacular, their energy seeming limitless, and for the duration of their time on stage they never relented. Bands of that caliber are hard to come by, ones that deliver a straight up rock ‘n’ roll show, no frills needed. Together, the four of them acted as if they had something to prove. At the very least they just further solidified their stature, their immense passion and unwavering dedication to their craft reminding all of the loyal supporters why they were so drawn to Clutch’s music in the first place and why they still hold it in such high esteem. The group even enamored fans of newer generations in the process, ensuring the legacy of Clutch will live on for some time to come.

Whether you have never seen Clutch before or catch them almost every time they come to your area, you owe it to yourself to check out one of the dates of the Book of Bad Decisions Tour. There is no telling what songs you might wind up hearing and their already impeccable form is sure to be bolstered by each additional show. The tour will roll on for another month, concluding in Philadelphia, PA with a show at Electric Factory on October 28th. Other notable stops include a visit to the Ogden Theater in Denver, CO on October 2nd; Showbox SODO in Seattle, WA on October 7th; and Los Angeles, CA’s El Rey Theater on October 12th. Additionally, they’ll be in Tulsa, OK on October 17th at Cains Ballroom and will be making a two-night stand at the Irving Plaza in New York, NY on the 26th and 27th. They’ll then bring the show to Europe in late November for a nearly month-long stint. Clutch’s complete listing of events and additional details regarding each one can be found HERE. And if you haven’t gotten it yet, do check out Book of Bad Decisions on iTUNES or GOOGLE PLAY. Set List: 1) “Gimme the Keys” 2) “Vision Quest” 3) “Texan Book of the Dead” 4) “Escape from the Prison Planet” 5) “Spacegrass” 6) “Emily Dickinson” 7) “Ghoul Wrangler” 8) “Earth Rocker” 9) “X-Ray Visions” 10) “El Jefe Speaks” 11) “How to Shake Hands” 12) “Sonic Counselor” 13) “In Walks Barbarella” 14) “The Mob Goes Wild” 15) “D.C. Sound Attack!” Encore 16) “Lorelei” 17) “Electric Worry” / “One Eye Dollar”

[themusicenthusiast]

Nine Inch Nails, Avenged Sevenfold, Godsmack and Deftones Set to Perform at Fifth Annual Louder Than Life, Returning to Louisville, KY’s Champions Park September 28-30; Ice Cube, Five Finger Death Punch, Breaking Benjamin, Billy Idol and Shinedown Also Top Line Announcement

A massive music lineup led by Nine Inch Nails, Avenged Sevenfold, Godsmack and Deftones has been announced for the 5th annual Louder Than Life, as the World's Largest Rock 'N' Roll Whiskey Festival expands to three days — Friday, September 28, Saturday, September 29, and Sunday, September 30 — at Champions Park in Louisville, KY. Louder Than Life features a selection of award-winning bourbons, whiskey, spirits, craft beer, and the best food Louisville has to offer, along with a powerful music lineup of rock legends and breaking talent performing on three stages. The festival celebrates the bourbon culture and culinary heritage of this unique American city. The general onsale for Louder Than Life General Admission tickets, VIP and Top Shelf VIP Packages, hotel and ticket packages, as well as tent and RV camping begins Friday, June 8 at 12:00 PM ET. The daily music lineup for Louder Than Life 2018 is as follows:

Friday, September 28: Avenged Sevenfold, Limp Bizkit, Breaking Benjamin, Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators, Seether, Black Stone Cherry, Skillet, Underoath, Suicidal Tendencies, Red Sun Rising, Tremonti, Bad Wolves, Turnstile, Jelly Roll, Hyro The Hero, Badflower, Islander, True Villains Saturday, September 29: Godsmack, Five Finger Death Punch, Shinedown, Bush, Bullet For My Valentine, Hellyeah, Body Count, Pop Evil, Sevendust, GWAR, Dance Gavin Dance, From Ashes To New, Sick Puppies, Cane Hill, Bad Omens, Blacktop Mojo, Awake At Last, Stone Broken, The Jacks Sunday, September 30: Nine Inch Nails, Deftones, Ice Cube, Primus, Billy Idol, Action Bronson, Clutch, Asking Alexandria, Yelawolf, The Sword, Glassjaw, The Fever 333, Monster Magnet, Spirit Animal, The Dose, The Breton Sound Godsmack's Sully Erna said, "We're honored to be headlining the Louder Than Life festival in Louisville this year! Looking forward to partying with all of you again real soon!" Benjamin Burnley of Breaking Benjamin commented, "We're excited to come back to Louisville for Louder Than Life 2018 and play songs from our new album EMBER for the first time in Kentucky! We always have a good time there and look forward to what we know will be a kickass show." Festival producer Danny Wimmer, founder of Danny Wimmer Presents, explained, "I couldn't be prouder of what we have accomplished since the inception of the festival. In five years, Louder Than Life has become the largest rock 'n' roll whiskey festival in the world, and I see no better way to celebrate its 5th year than to close out the weekend with Nine Inch Nails and Ice Cube." In addition to performances from top music artists, attendees at Louder Than Life will enjoy a variety of onsite food and beverage options celebrating the unique spirits and food of the Louisville region. Attendees 21+ up can choose to visit Bourbon World presented by the Louisville Courier Journal, and enjoy crafted cocktails at the exclusive Down The Rabbit Hole Speakeasy; sip fine wine at the Caduceus Wine Garden; or enjoy a local brew at the Craft Beer Bar. Other spirits can be enjoyed at the Heavy Tiki Bar presented by Jim Beam, or at the Jack Daniel's Experience for a "taste of Tennessee." Fans 21+ can explore the enormous Bourbon World presented by the Louisville Courier Journal. With 95% of the world's bourbon coming from Kentucky, festival producers Danny Wimmer Presents have hand-selected expressions from the top distilleries to create a unique opportunity to enjoy bourbons and exclusive one-time specialty cocktails inside what may be the World's Loudest—and Largest—Bourbon Tent. Site-wide, an enormous selection of bourbons will be available. Participating bourbon brands include: 1792, Angel's Envy, Barrell Bourbon, Basil Hayden's, Bloody Butcher's Creed, Booker's, Boone County Distilling, Bowman Brothers, Buffalo Trace, Bulleit, Contradiction, Cooper's Craft, Eagle Rare, E.H. Taylor, Elijah Craig, Elmer T. Lee, Evan Williams, Four Roses, Jefferson's, Jim Beam, Jim Beam Black, Kentucky Owl, Knob Creek, Larceny, Maker's 46, Maker's Mark, Michter's, New Riff Bourbon, Old Forester, Peerless, Rabbit Hole, Rebel Yell, Rock Hill Farms, Wild Turkey, W.L. Weller, and Woodford Reserve. Additional featured spirits include: Jack Daniel's, Uncle Nearest Whiskey, Southern Comfort and Tito's Handmade Vodka. The Caduceus Wine Garden will highlight Caduceus Cellars and Merkin Vineyards, owned by Arizona resident Maynard James Keenan, co-founder of international recording acts Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer. Having already dove headfirst into this venture, Maynard found out from a distant relative that wine making is in his blood. His Great Grandfather, "Spirito" Marzo, had vineyards and made wine in Venaus, Italy, just North of Turino in Piemonte. The Louder Than Life food and beverage options will be provided by Southern Hospitality Concessions LLC, DWP's affiliate concessionaire. Festival attendees will be able to experience a taste of Louisville. Selections from the following local and regional restaurants will be available: Bouquet, Boss Hog BBQ, Cellar Door Chocolates, Doc Crow's Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar, Citizen 7, Gospel Bird, Longshot Lobsta, Mike's Kentucky Kitchen, Midway Café, Tumbleweed, 502 Café, and Whiskey Dry. Guests can also choose from regional and national festival favorites including Island Noodles, Pie Baby Wood Fired Pizza, Chicago Dog House, Angry Bird Grill, Ben's Cantina, Spicy Pie Pizza, Mount Olympus, Phat Daddy's Creole, Master of Patties, Red Top Dog, and much, much more! If patrons are looking for an elevated culinary experience, they are invited to take a tour of the newly added culinary food parties where guests can enjoy signature cocktails paired with gourmet plates. The "Lock and Key Pizza Parlor" will be presented by Larceny with signature selections from Spicy Pie Pizza. The "Southern Soul BBQ" presented by Maker's Mark will feature smoked delicacies from Boss Hog BBQ. The "Sip & Grill" presented by Southern Comfort will feature renowned Louisville chef Edward Lee of Whiskey Dry. Chef Lee will be offering a selection of his gourmet Whiskey Dryburgers paired with refreshing Southern Comfort cocktails. Louder Than Life is produced by Los Angeles-based Danny Wimmer Presents, a producer of some of the biggest rock festivals in America, including Rock On The Range, Monster Energy Welcome To Rockville, Monster Energy Aftershock, Monster Energy Fort Rock, Monster Energy Carolina Rebellion, Chicago Open Air, Bourbon & Beyond, Monster Energy Rock Allegiance, Northern Invasion and more. DWP creates memorable and all-encompassing festival experiences, leaving both consumers and partners with lasting and meaningful impressions. By combining A-list music talent with local cuisine and culture, DWP has become recognized within the industry for delivering the highest-quality entertainment experiences to fans, artists, sponsors, partners and host cities. Louder Than Life 2018 partners and sponsors include: Monster Energy, f.y.e., The Music Experience, Miller-Coors, Jack Daniel's, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Robert Mondavi Private Select, Black Box Wines, Caduceus Wines, Diesel Cigars, SWFTCharge, Kentucky Lottery, Roadrunner Records, Fxck Cancer, Take Me Home, The Louisville Water Company and more.

All live photos by Jordan Buford Photography

[themusicenthusiast]

Sevendust Announces String of December Texas Dates; Closing Down 2017 at Dallas' Canton Hall

Sevendust has announced a few shows in Texas for December, and presumably, they will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut record. If that is true (as the “20th anniversary” on the poster strongly suggests, though it’s worth noting that there has yet to be full confirmation of that) that those Texas fans who were unable to attend one of the performances earlier in the year will finally get a chance to witness the greatness. 7D will be rocking three different venues in the Lone Star State. The Scout Bar in Houston, Vibes Event Center in San Antonio and the newly opened Canton Hall in Dallas will host the beloved hard rock outfit, taking place on December 29th, 30th and 31st, respectively. Tickets go on sale on Friday with various VIP upgrades available. Crobot will be joining them as the main support act.

Don’t miss it, because regardless of what the set list consists of, few bands are capable of rocking like Sevendust can. The passion and energy the members pack into their shows is something special, unparalleled even.

Photos by Jordan Buford Photography