I didn't want to seem to eager, so I managed to get there about 8 and was surprised I hadn't missed anything, they were all running behind. The first band up was Sparks the Rescue, and I have to say they really surprised me! They had the crowd jumping around and were definitely seeming to have fun on stage. I don't know if its where I was standing, but hearing lead vocals was nearly impossible, unless Alex Roy was screaming. They still started the show off with lots of energy and it was a good lead up to the rest of the show!
Next up was Like Moths to Flames and they were a bit heavy for my taste, but the crowd seemed to love them. They obviously had a stage persona they had all created together as most of the band had a scared look the whole time. I was definitely shocked to see the lead singer come out and looked very sweet...then he started screaming. I will admit the first thought I had was "how does that evil voice come out of someone who looks so nice?!" But they kept the crowd going and seemed to have a good amount of people who were there for them. (they moved a ton so getting good shots of them was hard...)
After them were Hit the Lights, finally a band I had listened to! Seeing them live was a treat, and I was shocked at how like they're recording they sounded like. They had good interaction with the crowd, and kept people jumping their entire set. Nick Thompson has a very delicate voice and so with the guitars and drums, it was extremely hard to hear him for most of the set. The best times he was heard when it was almost acoustic and there was very little background noise. Overall though I was so glad they played and that they played a few of their older songs that I knew. (Always good to sing along and not look like the weird one at the show.. :) )
And finally, the main reason I was there, D.R.U.G.S. came on!! Let me tell you, the amount of people that all of a sudden showed up for them was huge! Luckily getting there when I had gave me one of the best spots in the place, right next to the stage, on the side. I could see everything and even got to touch everyone! I will say that I didn't know about Craig Owens before about 8 months ago, but since I saw him at Warped, I've been interested. They came on that stage with energy and kept it going through their entire set. The crowd was almost mesmerized by Craig and anytime he would ask the crowd something, they would respond. To see someone so in control in a very loud and rowdy place was fantastic.
So there you have it, my first concert review! I'm sure in the future I will be more succinct and to the point, but I also just loved so much about this show. I was thoroughly impressed by all of the bands and would probably go see some of them again if they came through town.
