There is no better feeling than the first big show after shedding our Midwest winter temps, and Disturbed’s The Sickness 25th anniversary tour was an incredible way to kick off spring concert season. The Sickness was released in the year 2000 and went on to be certified as 5× Platinum by the RIAA in the U.S., meaning that it sold over 5 million copies and became a staple in millions of households around the world.
25 years is a long time but, as the stadium filled, in it became clear that it hadn't been long enough to shake the excitement and nostalgia fans have to witness The Sickness performed live. Older generations that grew up with the music and newer fans alike packed the house in anticipation of what was sure to be a legendary night.
Sevendust kicked things off proper. This band is clearly a well-oiled machine. Even after all these years, they bring the heat every time. I say, after all these years, only because Lajon Witherspoon, vocalist, spent a number of moments during the set reminiscing about the songs’ history, even stating a point: "I remember you," referring to the fans, who made this what it became.
Although every member of this band somehow looks as though they perform different genres, though they continue to blend seamlessly and rock a nearly flawless show every time. Between Morgan Rose ripping the drum kit, the guitar's effortless ability to pump out catchy riffs, every song gets your head bobbing. Top it off with a vocalist like Lajon Witherspoon, the band naturally kicks the energy up a notch.
I was really excited to see Three Days Grace on this tour in particular. To explain, let's have a quick history lesson for those that have been hiding under a rock the past decade. Three Days Grace originally had Adam Gontier as their lead vocalist from the band's formation in 1997 until 2013. Gontier was a key figure in the band's success during the era of their self titled release and the famous One x album.
In 2013, he left the band due to health issues. After he left the band, Matt Walst, the brother of bassist Brad Walst and front man of My Darkest Days, joined as the new lead singer. Matt took over vocals starting on their 2015 album Human, and has been the band's frontman since. Recently, the band surprised fans by announcing they are moving forward with both Matt Walst and Adam Gontier. Talk about a power duo!
In addition to that, this particular stop on the tour held a special place in Gontier’s heart, he told the crowd. “I love this city. I met my wife in this city. She’s here tonight. My son was born in this city. I went to rehab in this city… a long time ago now, and I hope the last time” he joked.
There is always a lot of speculation when a band has a vocalist change, especially merging two worlds like this, but if you had never seen the band in the past, you’d be none the wiser. The two vocalist balanced duties, taking the lead and stepping back where appropriate to letting each other’s strengths shine. It was a clean and refreshing experience, and I can't wait to see what they continue to do together in the future.
If there was ever a Disturbed set to catch it was this one. Two sets. Production. Pyro. Theatrics… This show had it all. The show began with David Draiman wheeled out on a stretcher with a mask on, resemblant of Silence of the Lambs. A caregiver unstrapped Draiman and he walked to the mic, as he removed his mask to begin the show with the track “Voices”.
It was so cool getting to hear hits like “Down with the Sickness” early in the show versus waiting to hear them in an encore. Vocalist David Draiman even mentioned the album had never been performed front to back in the band’s history.
The show was full of contrast from high energy moments during tracks, such as ‘Stupify’, to the calm but powerful performance of the band’s cover of Simon and Garfukle’s classic hit “The Sound of Silence” complete with timpani drums. Giving a little bit of something for everyone in the crowd to enjoy.
An album as monumental as The Sickness having a 25th anniversary deserves a special show and the band delivered it. Full send, no stops. A packed stadium and killer support was the icing on the cake to an already spectacular show. The night was an amazing celebration of Disturbed’s legacy, leaving their Minnesota fans pumped up and craving more.
