Perseverance: 30 Years of Hardcore
This year marks a monumental milestone for Hatebreed as the band celebrates 30 years of unrelenting aggression and resilience in the hardcore and metal scenes. Their anniversary tour, a thunderous homage to their storied career, is nothing short of electrifying, showcasing their unparalleled energy and dedication to their craft.
Supporting Hatebreed on this epic tour were an impressive lineup of bands that contributed to the overall intensity of the night.
Crypta, the all female Brazilian death metal band, opened the evening with a fierce performance that set the tone for the night. Their blend of melodic elements and raw aggression captivated the audience and proved they are a force to be reckoned with in the metal scene.
Next up was Chicago’s Harms Way, whose heavy, industrial-infused hardcore resonated throughout the venue. Their tight musicianship and commanding stage presence had fans two-stepping and moshing from the get-go, including a fan being hoisted up to crowd surf in his wheelchair! Harms Way had a statement performance, hopefully coming away with a lot of new fans, and it was clear they were a perfect fit for this tour.
Carcass, the legendary British death metal band, took the stage with a set that blended their classic tracks with newer material. Their performance was a masterclass in melodic death metal, showcasing the intricate guitar work and complex rhythms that have defined their career. The chemistry between the band members was evident, and they left the crowd wanting more.
The Continued Rise of Brutality
As fans eagerly awaited Hatebreed taking the stage, the atmosphere reached a fever pitch when a tribute video was projected onto the closed curtains of the stage, featuring well-wishes being delivered by musicians of every metal genre and more than a handful of celebrity fans on the band’s illustrious 30-year history.
When the curtains parted, the band opened with an explosion of tracks, starting with “Tear It Down” and “Live For This” off the album The Rise of Brutality. Their performance was relentless, with frontman Jamey Jasta’s powerful vocals cutting through the heavy instrumentation, encouraging the crowd to sing along at every opportunity. From the moment the lights dimmed and the first notes echoed through the venue, it was clear that this tour was special.
Hatebreed has always been known for their high-octane performances, but there was an added layer of emotion and celebration this time around. The crowd was full of passionate, long-time fans, many of whom had been following Hatebreed since the early ’90s. The energy was palpable, and with every song, the connection between the band and the fans grew stronger, demonstrating why they have remained at the forefront of the hardcore scene for three decades, at one point even engaging the crowd to help decide which direction the setlist would go. A brutal and energetic night included the band throwing out a giant, inflatable “ball of death” for the crowd to pass around and concluded with the crowd emphatically screaming along to “I Will Be Heard,” leaving the audience buzzing long after the last note faded away.
Hatebreed’s 30th anniversary tour is not just a celebration of their music; it’s a testament to their impact on the hardcore and metal communities. Over the years, they have built a loyal fanbase, forged a distinct sound, and influenced countless bands across genres. Their commitment to authenticity and connection with their fans has solidified their legacy as one of the most respected names in heavy music.
As they continue to tour and create new music, Hatebreed proves that their fire burns brighter than ever. Their 30th anniversary tour is a reminder that hardcore music is not just about the sound—it’s about the community, the struggles, and the triumphs we share. Here’s to another 30 years of Hatebreed, and the countless lives and a whole new generation that they continue to inspire.
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