On the opening night of their tour, Sevendust previewed their set with clips of some historic moments captured throughout the band’s thirty years together. With the crowd immediately catching the nostalgic vibe, the energy buzzed as they awaited the band immersed in darkness. I caught a quiet pre-show moment with the drummer as he was preparing to take the seat, equipping his in-ears and taking a breath before kicking off the show. musical journey throughout different albums across their discography.
The crowded Egyptian Room of Indiana’s Old National Centre erupted in cheers as the band took the stage. Sevendust continues to have a commanding presence on stage across all members of the band; LaJon’s energy is irrevocable, Morgan holds it down on the drums, and guitars from Clint, Jon, and Vince strum in endless layered rhythm. The skill and talent is unquestionable, each person showcasing their own unique addition to the collaborative sound.
So many fans caught the band's attention; making eye contact, head nods, pointing out to them, collecting guitar picks and drumsticks. Little moments that mean the world to the fans are so special to see and be a part of. Especially as I had a one-of-a-kind experience myself when Lajon reached out for me as I was shooting, long enough for me to realize I was supposed to reach back! Needless to say I was a little starstruck to be singled out in the pit. The band later noted the range of ages in the fanbase as fans under and much older than 12 crowd surfed, showcasing how Sevendust’s music is being passed through generations and enjoyed by all.
I immersed myself in the crowd after taking photos. The difference between watching from the photo pit - hearing the strum of the guitar directly and the raw vocals from Lajon before they’re amplified through the speakers - and being in the midst of the fans with the refined soundscape is a jarring difference. After a few songs, a girl pit is commanded from the stage and I risk my gear to join. In a moment of solidarity, the pit swells and circles to the music that speaks to each individual smiling and singing as we go around.
From my stance in the crowd I watch as this band that has played to millions of fans across the world reclaims the stage resurged by new music such as “Unbreakable”, a single released recently as anticipation builds for the bands’ new Album “One” that comes out on May 1st. Sevendust’s discernable rock sound flooded with creative guitar riffs and piercing lyrics held the room’s attention from start to finish, taking everyone on a musical journey throughout different albums across their discography.
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