CONCERT REVIEW: Underoath – Spiritbox – Bad Omens: Live at The Aztec Theater


 

As we return back to concerts, one not to be missed is the current tour with Underoath, Spiritbox, and Bad Omens (with Stray From the Path jumping on at a later date).  I made the trip to San Antonio this past weekend full of nerves in anticipation of what I knew was going to be a killer show.  I was not alone in my thoughts as I noticed a crowd of people lined up block long all clamoring to get into The Aztec Theatre.  As I joined the line myself, I could sense the excitement of those nearby as we slowly made our way inside the venue.  

First stop was the merchandise table, I am a big fan of supporting the bands that you love and buying merchandise while they’re on tour helps them get to the next stop. The hard decision was whether to wear my brand new Spiritbox shirt or keep it safe from possible beer being thrown in the air once the show got going. I chose the latter.

After chatting up some friends and making new ones, because we’re one big metal family, the lights went out and the screaming began as Bad Omens took the stage.  This was my third time seeing them and boy have they upped their game. Opening up with “The Death of Peace of Mind” you couldn’t help but notice how far they have come as a band.  Their new music is in your face and gritty which made for a great start to the night, getting bodies moving and sweating.  Tonight’s set was half new singles and a few old songs such as “Never Know” and “Limits.” Short and to the point of letting people in attendance know they are ones to watch. 

 

With their set done, fans were able to fill up on some drinks and get situated at the barrier for…

Spiritbox! I won’t cover it up, but this was the band I was most excited to see. I’ve been a fan ever since my friend Eugene Abdukhanov (bassist of Jinjer) mentioned them in an interview of bands he thought were really good.  And with the release of their full album Eternal Blue (Rise Records) late last year, it’s easy to hear why that album was rated either album of the year or topped most album charts on music outlets. So to be able to see them live was nothing short of freaking amazing! Watching Courtney LaPlante’s performance of soothing magical liquid notes float in the air and then being bashed in with her fierce growls was jaw dropping experience. Her commanding performance on stage and her kind interaction with the crowd spoke volumes as they played through songs off of their newest album. Watching Mike (guitar) & Bill (bass) slay through each note had me bust out my air guitar out of retirement and play along. Sadly, their set was only six songs, but I know there will be a time in the near future when they are headlining their own tour. I can’t wait to see them live again!

So after picking my jaw off the floor it was time for the main event – Underoath.  I’ve seen them once before and I knew it was going to be nonstop energy the rest of the night. Lights on and shouting erupted into the street of the nearly sold out venue as “Damn Excuses” set off the show. As the band members took over the stage there wasn’t a time that anyone stood still for longer than a couple of seconds. Bodies upon bodies surfed over crowds and were offered up as offerings to the Tampa, Florida band. Having an expansive career under their belt gave them ample songs to choose from such as “A Boy Brushed Red,” “Living in Black and White,” “Reinventing Your Exit,” and “On My Teeth” just to name a few.  Halfway through I had to step back to take a breath in my old age. 

The whole performance was a full body experience, with pulsating lights, the power of visceral music and the insatiable urge to move left me sore the next day. It was completely worth the aches and pains. It was a beautiful night of life altering music and memories to last for years to look back on. If you need a pure shot of euphoria- don’t miss out on this tour!

 

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY RENE BOTELO