At The Wonder Ballroom On March 8th

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All Photos By Krishta Photography

I first saw a Jerry Cantrell solo show many years ago, and as an ALICE IN CHAINS fan, that experience made me realize how much his vocals contribute to the beautiful harmonizing and lead melodies of the band. Years later, this recent show did not disappoint. He hasn't lost any of his vocal abilities, nor has he changed much over the years. He looked and sounded just as great as he did many years ago.

FILTER opened the show, and Richard Patrick has also maintained his vocal strength throughout the years. He delivers an industrial aggression that truly engages the audience. Their well-known hit, "Hey Man, Nice Shot", was certainly a highlight for the fans. My only complaint is related to the photographic aspect. We were asked to shoot from the front of the house, which posed a challenge. While I had the gear to do it, the venue's soundboard level was at the same height as a crowd of about 250 people, most of whom were much taller than me. Additionally, the heavy blue lights, drenched in fog, combined with zero front lighting, made it difficult. I managed to get one decent shot, which my editor liked, so I'll include that with my review. Honestly, I gave up after the first song. I would like to express to bands that if they allow photographers to shoot at shows, they should at least help them secure successful shots. Good lighting and positioning are crucial for capturing great images, which is something I believe bands should want as well. Rant over.

Jerry Cantrell is currently on tour supporting his new release, I Want Blood, a title that might suggest a Death Metal band, but the sound is far from it. His music is more Americana and, dare I say, a bit folksy. He is truly a masterful songwriter.

He opened the set with "Psychotic Break", the first track from his second album, Degradation Trip. It was an excellent choice to start with. Jerry has cultivated his solo music into a distinct style, separate from ALICE IN CHAINS. He then performed "Them Bones" from AIC's second album, Dirt, and the audience sang along with huge smiles throughout the entire song.

Jerry's touring band includes Greg Puciato on vocals, who did an incredible job with the vocal parts originally performed by Layne Staley; Roy Mayorga on drums, who may play even harder than Sean Kinney; Eliot Lorango on bass; Zach Throne on guitar and vocals; and, of course, Jerry on guitars and vocals. The setlist spanned Jerry's solo career while also featuring a selection of AIC songs from the albums Facelift and Dirt. The mix in the venue was superb, making it an incredible night to see Jerry and his band perform.

SETLIST:

• "Psychotic Break"
• "Them Bones"
• "Vilified"
• "Afterglow"
• "Atone"
• "Off the Rails"
• "Held Your Tongue"
• "Down In A Hole"
• "Cut You In"
• "My Song"
• "I Want Blood"
• "Man In The Box"
• "Had To Know"
• "Angel Eyes"
• "Hate To Feel"
• "Would?"

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