Killswitch Engage Set Portland Ablaze with a Blistering Sunday Night Set
PORTLAND, MAINE — April 13, 2025 — If your face wasn’t melted off by the end of Sunday night, were you even at the Killswitch Engage show?
The Cross Insurance Arena transformed into a molten pit of metalcore madness as Killswitch Engage closed out their spring tour with the kind of fire most bands only dream of igniting. This wasn’t just a concert. It was a full-blown reckoning — guitars screamed, voices soared, and the crowd left everything they had on that floor.
Opening Carnage: Setting the Stage to Burn
Frozen Soul got things rolling with a wall of icy death metal that hit harder than a Maine nor’easter. Their set was lean, mean, and unforgiving — the perfect gut punch to prep the pit.
Then Fit For A King took over and dialed the energy into full sprint mode, hammering the stage with breakdowns that could snap necks and lyrics that had fans yelling along with every ounce of breath.
Kublai Khan TX Straight chaos. No gimmicks, no fluff, just unrelenting hardcore that cracked the concrete beneath the arena. Moshers didn’t even wait — they threw down early and often.
Killswitch: Legends in the Flesh
But it was when the lights cut out and the first chords of “My Curse” ripped through the air that the place truly detonated. Killswitch Engage stormed the stage with the fury of a band that’s got nothing to prove — but still proves it anyway, every damn night.
Jesse Leach was a man possessed. His screams were raw enough to peel paint off the rafters, and when he hit those melodic highs, the entire arena sang like a choir of the broken. Guitarist Adam D, an absolute menace, ripping through riffs and tossing high kicks like it was 2005 all over again.
They hit the crowd with everything: “The End of Heartache,” “In Due Time,” “This Fire,” “Unleashed” — a masterclass in melodic metalcore with zero filler. The sound was massive. The pit? Total bedlam. And if you didn’t lose your voice screaming “BID FAREWELL!” during that encore, don’t worry — you were drowned out by 5,000 others who did.
Final Thoughts: Pure Catharsis
By the time the final notes rang out, and sweaty fans spilled into the Portland streets under a cold April sky, one thing was clear — Killswitch Engage doesn’t just perform. They purge. They cleanse. They lift you up, tear you down, and leave you wanting more.
Sunday night was metal at its finest. A triumphant, sweat-soaked, emotionally charged exorcism of everything that makes this music matter.
Killswitch Engage came to Maine, and they left no survivors.
AURA in Portland, Maine, was the epicenter of a seismic rock event as Jerry Cantrell and Filter delivered performances that left the audience electrified.
This concert was a testament to the enduring power of rock, showcasing both Cantrell’s and Filter’s ability to captivate and energize an audience. In the heart of a frigid Maine winter, AURA’s stage was set ablaze as Jerry Cantrell and Filter delivered a night of raw, unfiltered rock that left the audience craving more.
Filter: A Sonic Assault
Filter ignited the night at 8:00 PM, delivering a potent 45-minute set that included hits like “Take a Picture” and “Hey Man Nice Shot,” setting the stage for the evening’s main act. Kicking off the evening, Filter wasted no time in unleashing their signature industrial rock sound. Opening with “You Walk Away,” they set a relentless pace that had the crowd pulsating. The setlist was a masterclass in controlled chaos:
1. You Walk Away
2. The Drowning
3. (Can’t You) Trip Like I Do
4. Obliteration
5. Jurassitol
6. Take a Picture
7. Drug Boy
8. Welcome to the Fold
9. Hey Man Nice Shot
The crowd erupted during “Hey Man Nice Shot,” a track that has lost none of its edge over the years and the the energy was undeniable.
Jerry Cantrell: The Maestro of Darkness
Taking the stage at 9:15 PM, Jerry Cantrell, the legendary guitarist of Alice in Chains, commanded the audience with a presence that was both haunting and magnetic. Launching into “Psychotic Break,” he immediately set a tone that was both introspective and explosive.His 17-song set that traversed his expansive career. The setlist featured tracks from his latest album, “I Want Blood,” as well as classics from his solo work and Alice in Chains. Highlights included “Psychotic Break,” “Them Bones,” and a powerful rendition of “Rooster” to close the night.
The setlist was a journey through Cantrell’s expansive career:
1. Psychotic Break
2. Them Bones (Alice in Chains cover)
3. Vilified
4. Afterglow
5. Atone
6. Off the Rails
7. Cut You In
8. My Song
9. I Want Blood
10. Had to Know
11. Down in a Hole (Alice in Chains cover)
12. Angel Eyes
13. Hate to Feel (Alice in Chains cover)
14. Would? (Alice in Chains cover)
15. Encore:
16. Held Your Tongue
17. Brighten
18. Rooster (Alice in Chains cover)
The inclusion of “Hate to Feel,” performed live for the first time in over three decades, was a visceral highlight that resonated deeply with long-time fans. Cantrell’s guitar work was as sharp as ever, slicing through the venue’s atmosphere with surgical precision.
A Night to Remember
The combination of Filter’s industrial aggression and Cantrell’s grunge-laden introspection created a dynamic that was both confrontational and cathartic. AURA’s intimate setting amplified the intensity, making this a night that attendees won’t soon forget.
For those who missed this electrifying performance, let this serve as a stark reminder: when rock legends come to town, complacency is not an option.
Wu-Tang’s Titans Ignite Boston: A Night of Unfiltered Hip-Hop Mastery
When the calendar flipped to December 7, 2024, Boston’s House of Blues became the epicenter of raw, unadulterated hip-hop energy. The legendary trifecta of Ghostface Killah, GZA, and Raekwon stormed the stage, delivering a performance that left an indelible mark on the city’s music scene.
A Celebration of Timeless Classics
This tour wasn’t just another series of shows; it was a homage to the 30th anniversaries of two seminal albums: Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx and GZA’s Liquid Swords. These records didn’t just influence hip-hop; they redefined it. The anticipation was palpable, and the trio did not disappoint.
The Night Unfolds
As the clock struck 8 PM, the venue was charged with an electric atmosphere. The crowd, a diverse mix of die-hard Wu-Tang enthusiasts and new-age hip-hop fans, erupted as the lights dimmed. Ghostface Killah, adorned in his signature flamboyant attire, took the lead, his delivery as sharp and passionate as ever. GZA, the Genius, brought his cerebral lyricism to life, captivating the audience with every bar. Raekwon, the Chef, served up his gritty narratives, reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the game’s best storytellers.
A Setlist for the Ages
The evening was a masterclass in hip-hop excellence. Tracks like “Criminology” and “Ice Cream” transported the audience back to the golden era of rap, while “4th Chamber” and “Shadowboxin’” showcased the enduring power of their collaborative genius. Each performance was a testament to their individual artistry and collective synergy.
The Verdict
For those fortunate enough to witness this historic night, it was more than a concert; it was a pilgrimage. The House of Blues was transformed into a sanctuary of hip-hop, where legends reminded us of the genre’s profound impact and timeless appeal. As the final notes reverberated and the trio left the stage, one thing was clear: Ghostface Killah, GZA, and Raekwon are not just performers; they are the embodiment of hip-hop’s enduring spirit.
Missed the show? Relive the experience through fan captures and stay tuned for future tour dates. The legacy continues.
A Summer Escape Wrapped in Music, Art, and Good Vibes
The Levitate Music and Arts Festival took place in Marshfield, Massachusettes July 5-7, 2024
The warm July sun beaming down on a sea of festival-goers swaying to the rhythm of reggae-infused beats, the scent of food trucks filling the air, and vibrant art installations transforming the fairgrounds into a kaleidoscope of creativity. That’s the magic of Levitate Music & Arts Festival—a three-day celebration where music, surf culture, and grassroots community vibes collide. Since its humble beginnings as a surf shop’s anniversary party, Levitate has evolved into one of New England’s most anticipated summer festivals, drawing music lovers from all walks of life. Whether you came for the legendary sounds of Sublime, the soul-stirring country twang of Charley Crockett, or the psychedelic jams of Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, Levitate 2024 delivered a weekend of pure sonic bliss., July 7, 2024, marked the festival’s grand finale, featuring a diverse lineup that resonated with fans of various genres. The day’s performances included:
• Sublime: The legendary ska-punk band reunited with original members Bud Gaugh and Eric Wilson, joined by Jakob Nowell, son of the late Bradley Nowell, delivering a nostalgic and energetic set.
• Charley Crockett: Bringing authentic Americana vibes, Crockett’s soulful performance captivated the audience.
• Oliver Anthony: The viral sensation made his Massachusetts debut, offering heartfelt renditions that connected deeply with festival-goers.
• Ziggy Alberts: The Australian singer-songwriter’s mellow tunes provided a soothing ambiance.
• Daniel Donato: Leading his band, Cosmic Country, Donato’s virtuosic guitar skills were a highlight for many attendees.
• Richy Mitch & The Coal Miners: Their indie-folk sound added a unique flavor to the day’s lineup.
• Little Stranger: The duo’s eclectic mix of hip-hop and indie brought a lively energy to the stage.
• Karina Rykman: Known for her dynamic bass playing, Rykman’s set was both engaging and musically rich.
• Stolen Gin: Their performance rounded out the day, leaving the crowd wanting more.
Beyond the Music
The festival offered more than just music. Attendees enjoyed a variety of local food trucks, artisan vendors, and live art installations. The family-friendly environment featured a dedicated kids’ zone, ensuring fun for all ages. Additionally, 1% of all sales benefited the Levitate Foundation, supporting access to music, art, and the outdoors.
Looking Ahead
As the festival concluded, early bird tickets for the 2025 event, scheduled for July 12 and 13, went on sale, promising another year of exceptional music and community spirit. For more information and updates, visit the official Levitate Music Festival website.
John Mellencamp Live: A Gritty, No-Bullshit Night of Rock and Rebellion
John Mellencamp Live: A Gritty, No-Bullshit Night of Rock and Rebellion
On June 10, 2023, John Mellencamp stormed the stage like a man who’s seen it all and still gives a damn. No frills, no forced nostalgia—just raw, unfiltered heartland rock from a guy who refuses to play the game any other way.
This wasn’t a night for casual fans looking for a feel-good singalong. Mellencamp came armed with stories, attitude, and the kind of music that cuts through the noise of modern life like a rusty switchblade. Kicking off with “John Cockers,” he made it clear: he wasn’t here to pander, and he didn’t need your approval. The setlist wove through decades of defiant anthems, from the rebellious fire of “Rain on the Scarecrow” to the haunting nostalgia of “Jack & Diane,” but always on his terms.
He didn’t just play the hits; he told stories—gritty, unvarnished, and sometimes uncomfortable. Mellencamp has never been the type to sugarcoat reality, and his between-song monologues were a reminder that rock ‘n’ roll is as much about truth as it is about melody. He called out hypocrisy, lamented the state of the world, and cracked a few jokes, always with the swagger of a man who’s spent a lifetime dodging corporate bullshit.
The band was tight, delivering the kind of no-nonsense musicianship that makes you forget about overproduced pop. Violinist Lisa Germano’s eerie, cutting solos gave the music an extra edge, a reminder that Mellencamp’s sound isn’t just rock—it’s dust-covered Americana with a serrated edge.
The audience? A mix of die-hard fans and those who weren’t quite ready for the unfiltered reality Mellencamp serves. Some people probably came expecting a soft-edged nostalgia trip. What they got was a rock ‘n’ roll sermon—loud, unapologetic, and fiercely real.
By the time he closed with “Pink Houses,” it wasn’t a celebration—it was a reminder. A reminder that the American Dream is complicated, that rock music should still mean something, and that John Mellencamp, at 71, still has more fire in him than most artists half his age.
If you came looking for a polished, radio-friendly throwback, you might’ve left unsettled. But if you wanted a night of honest, uncompromising rock ‘n’ roll, Mellencamp delivered. No bullshit. No apologies. Just truth, set to a backbeat.