Fans were blown away by the electrifying and unforgettable concert experience of Freaks Paradise, featuring legendary shock rockers Rob Zombie, Alice Cooper, Ministry, and Filter. This theatrical and visually intense spectacle took place at the Budweiser Stage in Toronto on September 6, 2023, amidst scorching 35-degree weather.
The evening’s events kicked off with a bang, featuring the renowned openers Filter, known for their hit song Take a Picture. As the crowd poured into the venue, Filter took the stage and immediately captivated everyone with their energetic performance.
Fronted by Richard Patrick, former touring guitarist for Nine Inch Nails, Filter showcased their incredible talent and stage presence.
Filter played through their 6 song setlist, showcasing both their classic hits and tracks from their latest release, The Algorithm, which dropped on August 25, 2023.
As openers for Freaks Paradise Tour, Filter proved to be an excellent choice to set the tone for the night ahead. Their dynamic stage presence and infectious energy left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance, setting the bar high for what was yet to come.
Ministry took to the stage next. Along with frontman and founder Al Jourgensen, who has been the consistent driving force behind the band since its inception in 1981, Ministry showcased their iconic sound and stage presence.
Joining Jourgensen on stage was bassist Paul D’Amour, known for his founding role in the renowned band Tool. The combination of these two musical powerhouses created a dynamic energy that resonated throughout the entire performance.
The stage setup was simple yet effective, with billowing smoke adding an atmospheric touch to the already intense atmosphere. As soon as Ministry took to the stage, they effortlessly pumped up the crowd with their high-energy performance.
As the last song of the evening, Ministry performed Goddamn White Trash from their yet-to-be-released album HOPIUMFORTHEMASSES. This powerful song captivated the audience and showcased Ministry‘s ability to deliver hard-hitting lyrics with an unapologetic attitude.
Overall, Ministry’s performance proved why they have remained a prominent force in industrial metal for decades. Their ability to engage and energize audiences is a testament to their enduring talent and dedication to their craft.
Alice Cooper’s inclusion in the lineup added another layer of excitement to this already incredible event. Renowned for his theatrical performances and shock rock persona, Cooper did not disappoint. Despite being 75 years old, Alice Cooper shows no signs of slowing down. His energy and passion are infectious, captivating audiences from start to finish. With a massive stage setup that rivals some of the biggest productions in music history, every song performed was elevated to new heights.
One of the exciting aspects of this tour is the return of Nita Strauss on guitar. Freshly engaged and recently touring with Demi Lovato, Nita’s incredible talent and stage presence were undoubtedly an extra layer of intensity to an already explosive performance.
Alice Cooper’s mind-bending visuals and jaw-dropping props, including a snake, guillotines, straight jackets, and even a towering Frankenstein monster. Every aspect of the performance was meticulously planned and executed to create an immersive experience that left you chilled on a scorching night.
But it’s not just about the theatrics – Alice Cooper’s music remains as powerful and relevant as ever. With his big stage setup and a band of talented musicians backing him up, he delivers hit after hit with precision and energy.
Alice Cooper proves that age is just a number as he continues to defy expectations and deliver performances that will leave you begging for more.
Rob Zombie’s concert performances are nothing short of a visually stimulating production. As an American singer, songwriter, record producer, filmmaker, and actor, Zombie is renowned for his unique blend of horror and sci-fi themes in both his music and lyrics.
During his performance, Zombie’s elaborate shock rock theatricality took center stage. The use of red, blue, and green lighting combined with mesmerizing video monitors creates a captivating atmosphere that immerses the audience in his dark and thrilling world.
The concert attracted fans from every age group, proving that shock rock has a timeless appeal. From long-time followers to newcomers drawn by Zombie’s reputation for unforgettable live shows, there was something for everyone. The crowd’s enthusiasm was infectious as they sang along to every word and embraced the wild atmosphere.
One standout moment from his performance was when he paused to address the crowd about the prevalence of smartphones. He urged the 15000 fans to take their last selfies before putting their phones down because they will soon need both arms up in the air to fully embrace the energy of the show.
With Rob Zombie at the helm, concertgoers can expect an unforgettable experience where music meets theater meets pure adrenaline. His ability to create a visually stunning production coupled with his dedication to fan engagement sets him apart as one of today’s most captivating performers in the industry.
Overall, Freaks Paradise with Rob Zombie at the Budweiser Stage in Toronto was a spectacle not to be missed. With its heavy soundscapes, visually stunning performances, and dedicated fanbase spanning generations, this concert proved why shock rock continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
A special thanks to Live Nation for the accreditation.
All images by Sue Sadzak Hebert. ©2023. Please do not copy or use without consent.
Rob Zombie
Alice Cooper
Ministry
Filter
