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THE CULT, PATRIARCHY In Salem, OR With Photos!

By Krishta Abruzzini, Pacific Northwest Writer
Saturday, September 28, 2024 @ 9:40 AM

At The Elsinore Theater, 09/21/2024

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All Photos By Krishta Photography

The renowned band, THE CULT, delivered an unforgettable performance at the iconic Elsinore Theater in Salem, Oregon, on 09/21/2024. Steeped in nearly a century of history, this historic theater provided the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary evening of music and entertainment.

The Elsinore, a nearly 100-year-old gem, has been witness to a myriad of acts over the years, from Vaudeville to silent films, and even served as an audition rehearsal space for the legendary Clark Gable. Its ornate interior, a stunning example of Tudor Gothic design, with its exceptional acoustics, set the stage for THE CULT's unforgettable performance, adding another chapter to its rich history.

PATRIARCHY, an Electronic Art Goth duo from L.A., opened for THE CULT. Their performance featured heavy vocal and guitar loops supported by weighty percussion, delivering a sound reminiscent of NIN but unique despite the comparison. The artists, Actually Huizenga (Vocals, Guitar) and Andrew Means (Drums), push the boundaries of weird. The duo brinks on a bit of shock rock lyrically, but the music and performance were fantastic. Huizenga holds a strong dominatrix presence but with a bit of burlesque and MISSING PERSON's Dale Bozzio vibe. The duo act out some S&Mish choreographed scenes during songs. Clearly, Means and Huizenga are a couple, as she spoke of recently having their baby, followed by a song titled, "Don't Fuck The Drummer". The audience's reaction to PATRIARCHY's performance was mixed, with some loving their unique style and others slightly confused. However, their provocative performance certainly set the stage for THE CULT's electrifying show.

SETLIST:

"Lockjaw"

"Suffer"

"Hell Was Full"

"The Man For You"

"Don't Fuck The Drummer"

"Boy On A Leash"

Before THE CULT started, a stagehand walked around with lit sage, smudging the space. A few sticks of incense were burned on each side of the stage, and a heavy Persian rug was set in the center, creating a Bohemian mood. The band came onto the stage with massive cheers from the audience. Ian Astbury, wearing his beloved Yohji Yamamoto-inspired garb along with high-top black Nikes, has his own recognizable style loved by many fans. Billy Duffy's swagger as he picks up his guitar is an unparalleled cool. On drums is John Tempesta, known for his heavy history with bands such as WHITE ZOMBIE, EXODUS, and TESTAMENT. Bass player Charlie Jones (PAGE/PLANT), is a massively talented musician. Missing from this tour was keyboardist Mike Mangan, which was unclear as to why.

The band started off their set with "In The Clouds". It was a heavy start to kick off the night and it brought the audience up off their chairs. Followed by "Rise" and its chunk-a-gunk riff, Astbury smiled as he took in the audience that clearly adores the band. The audience's energy was palpable, and it was clear that everyone was in for a night to remember. Song 3 brought the more mainstream hit, "Wildflower", which brought the standing audience down toward the stage. Most of the ushers/security working at this theater are obvious retirees, and they had no control over the fans pushing their way to the front. On one tour, in a stuffy casino ballroom which looked more like a convention setting, Astbury encouraged his fans to get up off their chairs and come forward, proclaiming it "was a fucking rock show".

One big highlight of the night was the acoustic set, "Edie (Ciao Baby)", performed by Astbury and Duffy. It brought an intimacy to the packed room. I thought I would miss the crescendo of percussion and electric guitar that song brings, but it proved brilliant as an acoustic number. "The Witch", "Lucifer", and "Rain" were amongst my favorites performed that night.

Astbury's vocals were strong, and his stage presence was ever-commanding. Billy Duffy plays guitar like butter, every tone, every note. The pocket, John Tempesta and Charlie Jones give a strong backbone to the band while still allowing focus on the two founders, Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy.

I've seen the band perform for many years. One standout for me was the deep appreciation Astbury and Duffy both emitted onstage for their fans. Hands were held to their hearts, and they reached out with gratitude to each that was there. They ended the night with a powerful rendition of "She Sells Sanctuary", a fan-favorite that had the entire audience on their feet. As folks left for the evening, the consensus was it was one of the best shows they'd seen from the band.