Shinedown along with Pop Evil performed at History in downtown Toronto recently. Hot off the heels of their 7th studio album release Planet Zero, Shinedown had no problem selling out the evening’s performance. The all-ages show, presented by Live Nation Ontario, had people of all ages rocking out and enjoying the evening’s entertainment.
Supporting act Pop Evil hit the stage at 8 pm. I was surprised to see the place was already packed when they started their set. On plenty of occasions, the crowd tends to straggle in during the openers or just after, but this wasn’t the case for this show.
Noticeably missing was guitarist Nick Fuelling. After a freak accident following their kick-off show in Grand Rapids, he sustained a broken leg, along with a dislocated and fractured ankle. Los Angeles guitarist Chris Laplante filled in while Nick recovers.
Performing a 9 song set list, they sprinkled some of their most popular songs like Torn to Pieces, Be Legendary, and Eye of the Storm. Also performing 2 tunes from their 6th studio album called Versatile, Breath Again and Survivor.
While performing Torn to Pieces, the venue lit up with cell lights. Kingston-born singer Leigh Kakaty asked the crowd if they could feel his pain.
Kakaty referred to the crowd as his Canadian brothers and sisters and talk about how important we stick together. He also paid homage to the strong ladies in the audience and gave props to their drummer Hayley Cramer.
A special guest for the evening, Blake Allison from Devour the Day joined the band to accompany Leigh Kakaty on vocals for Trenches. I really dug this pairing. Blake’s vocals fit perfectly with the band.
Pop Evil had so much energy and a great stage presence. I personally had never seen them before, but really enjoyed their set, as did the 2500 people in attendance.
At 9:10 pm Shinedown hit the stage. The backdrop played a video montage showing candid moments of the band in various venues preparing to play. 3 minutes later the crowd went wild as the band made their way to the stage.
Starting off their 17-song set with The Saints of Violence and Innuendo, the crowd when wild. This would set the tone for the rest of the show. Early in their set, Brent stopped the show to address an altercation in the audience. Although I couldn’t specifically see what was happening, Brent was telling someone to back off and chill. Then announced to the victim that he would have them and their guest join side stage to see the rest of the show. Just another reason to love Shinedown!
I knew from prior performances what to expect from a Shinedown show. Singer Brent Smith has this way of making you feel like you are a friend. He is like a motivational speaker and cheerleader. “This world can be difficult and beautiful. Lots of obstacles, but it’s gonna be ok. Always question things about this journey we are on. Focus on the plan and don’t be afraid of failure. You need it. Your life and legacy is based on your failure. Never give up”. When he talks about life experiences, it’s as if he is having a conversation with each person on some level. His persona along with the amazing music in their discography really makes Shinedown the whole package.
With the release of their 7th studio album Planet Zero, Smith admits it was their highest debut album globally ever released. A pandemic creation, he spoke about how this affected everyone on this planet.
Guitarist Zack Myers along with bassist Eric Bass strutted the stage, jumping and really taking in the moment. So much energy between the two made it entertaining to watch. While behind the kit was none other than Barry Kerch, supporting a huge smile for most of the evening. Myers stating weed is legal in Canada, isn’t it? I’m higher than the space needle. I’m never hungry during a performance but am starved tonight! The audience laughed.
I found my thoughts wandering towards the end of the show. Not from the concert, but the musicianship these guys have. The sound and professionalism are really something to witness.
Shinedown is always a treat to watch live. They are the complete package, from stage presence to musicianship and their attitude really rounds off this amazing act. If you have the chance to see them live, don’t miss out. You will not be disappointed.
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All photos by Sue Hebert Sadzak
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