As soon as Spiritbox hit the stage and started to play you could feel the vibration of anticipation throughout the venue, granted they were the opener, but they know how to get the night started. It’s no wonder these guys (and gal) have blown up in the last 2 years. Courtney Laplante is arguably one of the biggest female vocalists in metal currently, and I don’t see that slowing down any time soon. Backed by Mike Stringer (Guitar), Josh Gilbert (Bass, Backing Vocals) and Zev Rose (Drums). You’re presented with a touch of electronica, guttural screaming, melodic vocals and heavy bass. The only wish I had is that they had more room on stage to utilize, but with what they had, they did well!

During intermission, I got to walk around the venue and let me just say that the Bank of NH Pavilion is probably one of my favorite outdoor venues. Everything from the sound system, the seating arrangements, the merchandise booths and even that bathrooms are so well done. The staff is extremely friendly and accommodating – it always feels like you’re seeing old friends when you’re here.

Next thing I know, people are cheering as I see the signature mohawk of Jacoby Shaddix coming out onto the stage. From the second Papa Roach set foot into the audience’s eyes, until after they were off the stage, the crowd was fierce. Jacoby is most definitely in the top 3 of my list of favorite on stage personalities. The crowd interaction was some of the best I’ve seen out of all the concerts I’ve been to. At one point in the show, there was a brief intermission where they played a video on the big screens, and it was a suicide awareness video featuring Jacoby. It gave the information for the suicide prevention hotline and spread the message that it’s okay to have bad days, and you’re not alone. Throughout their career, Papa Roach has used their platform to talk about mental health, and how it’s affected them. At the end of the video there was a nice surprise. Papa Roach committed to donating a part of the proceeds made off of the 9/19/23 show in Gilford, NH and that made me even more happy to be attending that show. Overall, Papa Roach was phenomenal, and I can’t wait to see them live again.

After the hype of the Papa Roach show, the anticipation for the headliner, Shinedown, began in full force. I know one thing for certain and it’s that these guys always put on one hell of a show! They continuously amp up their performance, meanwhile creating a place of catharsis. It’s always mind-blowing to see how much power people on stage can have, and Shinedown is no different. When they’re on stage, the audience is captivated by their effortless, magnetic charisma, and they know it. Remaining humble, they thank their fan base for being there because without them, it wouldn’t be possible to do what they do and create the music. Aside from the high energy they bring on stage, and the close to flawless performance – what really blows my mind is the collective unity they can create. Having close to 9,000 people singing, pumping their fists and shining their flashlights towards the stage to light up the night… that’s incredible.