Of all the shows I’ve attended, and covered, this one ranks among the best I’ve ever seen. While Volbeat has grown in popularity recently due to their frequent radio airplay, and popular hit after hit, their strength lies in their live show. Having sold out months before the show, The Rapids Theatre was packed to the rafters.
As Volbeat took the stage, frontman Michael Poulsen walked out onto the line of sub woofers that extended the stage, to greet his feverish fans. When they struck the first chord of “Doc Holiday” the crowd erupted. Volbeat brings an energy to the stage that readily spills over to the fans. It’s not a “mosh pit” or “dance” energy per se, but it’s something in between the two… it is also the definition of their sound. Having been labeled as Rockabilly, Metal, and even Psychobilly, their music has all the elements of metal, while still maintaining a unique groove. With the addition of former Anthrax guitarist Rob Caggiano, they’ve added the “American Metal” component to their music, giving them an even broader appeal.
With an extensive setlist that featured a cover of Johnny Cash’s “Ring Of Fire”,and members of Trivium joining them on stage to perform “Evelyn,” Volbeat was certain to cater to every fans wishes of playing something they wouldn’t forget.
As the night drew to an end, the sweat-soaked band finished their main set with their biggest hit to date, “Still Counting.” As the crowd was waiting for them to re-emerge for an encore, the “VOL BEAT” chant started. As the volume intensified, the mass began to jump up and down. With the entire venue shaking under foot, Volbeat returned for a four song encore that included a special surprise for the young fans in attendance.
After “Hangman’s Body Count,” Poulsen asked that all the kids in attendance join them on stage for a song. As the kids made their way up, they were greeted with high fives from the band. Poulsen addressed the crowd stating “These kids are the future of metal, rock and roll, and all the real music we’ve got left.” They performed “Thanks,” as they interacted with each and every one of the kids on the stage… Poulsen even handed his pick to little girl and had her play his guitar, it is now my favorite photo I’ve ever captured.
Fans of Volbeat know how great these guys are, and being on tour with a band like Trivium, is helping to broaden their fan base. Poulsen and Volbeat leave everything on the stage, and make a genuine connection with their fans. I myself have been a fan of Volbeat for some time, and after witnessing the fun they have with the kids being a part of what they do, I don’t think that’s gonna change any time soon.
Setlist:
Doc Holiday
Hallelujah Goat
Boa
Lola Montez
Sad Man’s Tongue/ Ring Of Fire (Johnny Cash cover)
Heaven nor Hell/ A Warrior’s Call
16 Dollars
Dead But Rising
Fallen
Ecotone
Evelyn (featuring Matt Heafy & Corey Beaulieu of Trivium)
Radio Girl
Maybellene
Still Counting
Encore:
Pool of Booze, Booze, Booza
The Hangman’s Body Count
The Mirror And The Ripper
We would like to thank Steve Karas from SKH music for the credentials to review the show.
