There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere of a metal concert, especially one that fans have been anxiously anticipating for years. The Wellmont Theater was packed to the brim, creating an energy that could be felt the moment you entered. The lineup was a bucket-list experience for me and I’m sure the other fans as well. 

Opening the night was a newly emerged band that has been causing quite a stir in the metal scene, Vended. This young group managed to command the stage as if they had been performing for decades. Not a surprise, as the lead singer’s father is Corey Taylor from Slipknot. From their very first song, the crowd erupted into a pit, and crowd surfers were overhead. It was clear that Vended has the potential to become a significant player in the heavy metal arena, and fans are already waiting for their next performance.

Next to take the stage was none other than Static X. They kicked off with a dramatic entrance—a massive robot pumpkin flanked by cascading snow. This visual was accompanied by a stellar light show and fun dancing robots. The energy seemed to build with each song as crowd surfing continued to escalate, and so did the fun!

However, the highlight of the night had to be the legendary Mudvayne, who headlined the show. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of their iconic album L.D. 50, they delivered a powerful and sentimental set. Chad Gray, the lead singer, possesses a haunting voice that effortlessly blends aggression with melody. His stage presence is magnetic, and even beneath his signature makeup, his appreciation for the fans and the entire metal community shines through him. He actively engages with the crowd, creating a familial bond that envelops the venue.

Mudvayne also teased their loyal followers with a couple of hits from other albums, while unveiling their new single “Sticks and Stones.” This combination of older songs and fresh material had the crowd totally engaged. The passion in Gray’s eyes as he connected with the audience was a testament to the profound love and dedication he holds for his music and the entire experience. The night was not only a celebration of the past but also a vibrant reminder of the future of metal.

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