Summer of Loud Festival | Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre | Tinley Park, IL 7/13/25

Sunday, July 13th - The Summer of Loud festival roared into Tinley Park’s Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre with a thunderous lineup that lit up Chicago's south suburbs with unrelenting energy and face-melting performances. The festival kicked off with blistering sets from openers Kingdom of Giants, Alpha Wolf, The Amity Affliction, and The Devil Wears Prada, each delivering a fierce dose of metalcore mayhem that set the tone for the chaos to come. As the sun dipped below the horizon, headliners Killswitch Engage, Beartooth, I Prevail, and Parkway Drive took the stage, unleashing a full-scale sonic assault that had the amphitheater pulsing with adrenaline and unity. From circle pits to cathartic singalongs, Summer of Loud proved to be a seismic celebration of heavy music in its most electrifying form.

This year’s Summer of Loud Festival carried a profound emotional undercurrent, as it was dedicated to the memory of three beloved members of the rock and metal community: Dave Shapiro, the visionary architect behind the festival’s creation, Emma Huke and Kendall Fortner, whose passion and spirit helped bring the event to life. The trio tragically lost their lives in a plane crash on May 22, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, dedication, and love for music that reverberated through every set and every note performed. Their memory was honored not only in word, but in the overwhelming energy, unity, and emotion that defined the festival, a true celebration of the lives they lived and the impact they made.

The Credit Union One Amphitheatre is conveniently located in the Chicago suburb of Tinley Park, and is easily accessible from both the city and the surrounding suburbs. It's close to major highways and public transportation, making it easy for concertgoers to get there. The amphitheatre is a large and impressive outdoor music facility that hosts a variety of concerts and live shows. The amphitheatre is one of the largest outdoor music venues in the Chicago area, with a seating capacity of roughly 28,000. It consists of reserved seating sections near the stage and an expansive general admission lawn area at the back. The main stage of the Credit Union One Amphitheatre is outfitted with cutting-edge audio and lighting technologies, guaranteeing that all performances are of the highest caliber. The venue features a scenic and natural backdrop behind the vast lawn section, creating a welcoming ambiance for concertgoers. The amphitheatre, being an outdoor venue, offers a unique musical experience where attendees may enjoy live music beneath the open sky. This trait gives a unique flavor to the performances, especially on beautiful summer nights like tonight. The Credit Union One Amphitheatre provides a range of amenities to enhance the entire performance experience, including extensive parking, food and beverage concessions with a variety of dining options, washroom facilities, and accessibility elements for fans with disabilities. The facility organizes a variety of concerts and events that feature top-tier performers and bands from a variety of music genres. The amphitheatres diversified schedule of performers caters to a wide range of audiences, from rock and pop to country, hip-hop, and beyond. The World Music Theatre was the name of the venue when it first opened its doors in 1990. Since then, the venue has undergone numerous name changes over the years. From 2001 until 2006, it was known as the Tweeter Center, and it was later rebranded as the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre until 2015, when it became the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre, before now becoming the Credit Union One Amphitheatre following a recent sponsorship agreement earlier this year shortly after this show was announced. Overall, the Credit Union One Amphitheatre is a well-known and well-liked music venue in Chicagoland, attracting various touring acts and offering concertgoers exceptional experiences in a spacious and inviting outdoor setting.

Courtesy of Credit Union One Amphitheatre

In a genre saturated with breakdowns and atmospheric synths, Kingdom of Giants manage to balance brutality with finesse. Their recent live performance showcased a carefully constructed setlist that highlighted both technical proficiency and raw emotional force. Performing tracks spanning fan favorites like “Asphalt” and “Wayfinder,” the California-based metalcore outfit proved why they’re one of the scene’s most reliable live acts.

The band launched their set with “Asphalt,” a deliberate choice that immediately set the tone. Tight drum work and cutting harsh vocals framed the track, while synth backdrops layered just beneath the mix, enriching the sound without overwhelming it. The band’s physical energy remained composed yet deliberate, signaling a measured pacing for the night ahead. “Wasted Space” ushered in a shift towards the band’s more melodic tendencies. Smooth transitions between harsh and clean vocals showcased frontman Dana Willax’s range, while the electronic elements stepped forward to create a rich, full-bodied soundscape. By this point, the band found their stride both sonically and physically, interacting more confidently with the crowd. Midway through the set, “Bleach” delivered one of the most aggressive moments of the night. Thunderous breakdowns pulsed through the venue, amplified by stark lighting and rhythmic strobes that accentuated every beat. Harsh vocals dominated here, carrying a raw intensity that sacrificed polish for palpable emotion—an effective trade-off that resonated with the audience. With “Collide,” Kingdom of Giants pivoted toward introspection. Atmospheric synths and melodic guitar leads took center stage, wrapping the audience in a more immersive, cinematic experience. While the energy dipped slightly compared to the previous track, the song’s clean vocals and ambient layering offered a dynamic breather that showcased the band’s range. The energy roared back with “Burner,” arguably the sonic climax of the evening. Precision chugging, relentless drumming, and aggressive vocal interplay turned the venue into a rhythmic assault. Lighting cues enhanced the track’s raw power, creating a synchronized sensory overload that highlighted the band’s tight coordination. Closing the set with “Wayfinder” proved to be both a strategic and emotional choice. Balancing melodic hooks with crushing breakdowns, the song encapsulated the duality at the heart of Kingdom of Giants’ sound. Crowd participation peaked here, as fans echoed the clean vocal refrains back to the stage. The final breakdown landed with exacting precision, drawing the night to a cathartic close.

Kingdom of Giants’ live show leans less on physical spectacle and more on technical mastery and sonic balance. Their interplay of melody and aggression felt meticulously honed, yet never sterile. While they aren’t the most theatrical of bands, their focus on sound craft and set pacing pays dividends. In an era where many metalcore acts blur together, Kingdom of Giants stand out as craftsmen of controlled chaos.

Rating: 4/5

Recommended for: Fans of modern metalcore who appreciate atmospheric layers alongside crushing breakdowns.

Few bands in modern metalcore command the stage with the raw aggression and calculated fury of Alpha Wolf. Known for their pulverizing breakdowns and visceral stage presence, the Australian quintet delivered a performance that was less a concert and more an auditory assault. Their recent live set, featuring standout tracks like “Mangekyō”, “Sucks 2 Suck”, and “Akudama”, showcased their ability to blend brutality with groove-driven precision.

Alpha Wolf kicked off the set with “Mangekyō”, immediately immersing the audience in their signature brand of ferocity. The glitchy electronic undertones and crushing riffage hit like a gut punch. Frontman Lochie Keogh’s delivery was unrelenting, channeling rage with surgical precision. Strobe-heavy lighting and bursts of smoke amplified the chaos, turning the pit into instant bedlam. Transitioning into “Pretty Boy”, the band embraced a more groove-laden aggression. The syncopated breakdowns, paired with punchy basslines, kept the pit circling. Keogh’s snarling vocal tone added a layer of venom to every word, while the band’s tight coordination ensured every beat landed with force. Visual production adopted stark color shifts, blood reds and icy blues, amplifying the track’s twisted tone. By the time “Sucks 2 Suck” dropped, the band had the crowd in their grasp. This track’s blunt-force instrumentation turned the floor into chaos. Keogh’s aggressive crowd engagement, punctuated by snarled taunts and guttural shouts, ignited frenzied moshing. The simplicity of the riffing gave space for the live mix to breathe, letting every punchy note hit cleanly. “Sub-Zero” offered a stylistic shift toward Alpha Wolf’s industrial side. Cold, mechanical synths and pulsing electronic basslines underpinned brutal down-tuned guitarwork. The band’s stage visuals leaned heavily into cool-toned lighting and fog, reflecting the song’s icy aesthetic. Keogh’s pacing slowed slightly here, focusing on deliberate, menacing delivery. “Haunter” showcased Alpha Wolf’s talent for controlled dissonance. Jarring guitar squeals and angular riffs turned the venue into an unsettling sonic landscape. This track leaned experimental, with eerie backing elements slicing through the brutality. Visually, the band maintained minimal stage movement, letting the sound itself conjure unease. Keogh’s vocals felt more tortured than enraged, a chilling pivot. “Creep” was pure carnage. Minimalist yet crushing riffs dominated, triggering relentless crowd movement. The band’s synchronization was remarkable here; drums, guitars, and vocals locked into a menacing, unified stomp. Lighting adopted stark whites and deep shadows, emphasizing the track’s blunt brutality. Keogh prowled the stage like a predator, amplifying the song’s menacing vibe. Ending the set with “Akudama” was a stroke of genius. From its opening glitchy sample to its infamous “HATE!” drop, the song embodied everything Alpha Wolf stands for: nihilistic energy, precision musicianship, and unapologetic aggression. The breakdowns landed like controlled demolition charges. Visually, the band unleashed every trick, strobe storms, smoke blasts, and blood-red washes, to end the night in sheer sensory overload.

Alpha Wolf’s performance wasn’t about stage theatrics or elaborate crowd engagement. It was about unrelenting sonic assault and precision timing. The band delivered a set that was as mechanically tight as it was emotionally vicious. In today’s metalcore scene, Alpha Wolf stand apart, not for reinventing the wheel, but for ensuring it hits like a wrecking ball every single time.

Rating: 4.5/5

Recommended for: Fans of extreme modern metalcore, industrial-tinged aggression, and pit-centric live shows.

Resilience has always been at the heart of The Amity Affliction’s music, and that spirit extended to the stage as lead vocalist Joel Birch performed wearing a below-the-knee brace on his left leg, a testament to the band’s commitment to their fans. Despite Birch’s limited mobility, the Australian post-hardcore veterans delivered a performance defined by raw emotional depth, crushing breakdowns, and soaring choruses. The setlist, spanning nine tracks including “Pittsburgh” and “I See Dead People”, proved both cathartic and punishing.

Launching their set with fan favorite “Pittsburgh” was a smart move. The song’s melancholic opening lines drew the crowd in immediately. Joel Birch, despite his injury, delivered powerful unclean vocals from center stage, using minimal movement but maximum presence. Bassist Jonny Reeves' clean choruses rang clear across the venue, reinforcing the band’s melodic edge. The crowd’s singalong energy was palpable, setting the emotional tone early. “Like Love” leaned into The Amity Affliction’s more atmospheric side, with layered synths and soaring guitar leads. Birch’s growls cut through cleanly, and despite limited stage movement, his expressive delivery maintained intensity. Reeves' clean vocals, supported by tight drumming, carried the choruses, offering a melodic reprieve from the harsh verses. With “Drag the Lake,” the band dialed back the heaviness slightly in favor of groove and melody. Reeves took the vocal lead here, and the crowd responded in kind, singing along note-for-note. Birch, though stationary, poured intensity into every screamed verse, compensating for his physical limitations with vocal command. A more subdued yet emotionally charged track, “All That I Remember” served as a reflective midpoint. Clean guitar tones layered beneath restrained drumming, while Birch’s harsh vocals provided the necessary edge. Lighting softened, drawing focus inward. Despite his injury, Birch’s body language, often leaning forward over the mic, gave the sense of an intimate confession shared with thousands. Shifting gears, “All My Friends Are Dead” turned the venue volatile. Birch roared with renewed aggression, his leg brace seemingly forgotten amid the sonic assault. Though rooted in place, his upper body was frenetic. Guitarists Dan Brown and Kyle Yocum took the physical lead, covering stage territory and inciting movement in the crowd. Drums hit militaristic precision as breakdowns fractured the floor. “Death's Hand” brought fans back to The Amity Affliction’s classic era. Birch’s screams were raw but controlled, while the instrumentation felt heavier and darker than previous tracks. The band’s synergy was evident, executing tempo shifts and dynamic drops flawlessly. Lighting effects went minimal here, allowing the sheer sound to dominate. Arguably the most emotionally intense moment of the night, “I See Dead People” carried raw, unfiltered weight. Birch, visibly straining, poured his voice into each line. His leg injury seemed secondary to the emotional pain conveyed. Reeves' melodic lines offered contrast, but the harrowing screams held center stage. Following the emotional high, “It’s Hell Down Here” continued the descent into despair-themed heaviness. Birch’s harsh vocals felt particularly anguished, possibly influenced by physical discomfort. The instrumental section was tight and punchy, and the lighting intensified with reds and strobes to match the lyrical themes. Closing the set with “Soak Me in Bleach” balanced melody and aggression, encapsulating The Amity Affliction’s essence. Fans belted every clean chorus, while the breakdowns sustained the energy until the final note. Birch, having remained centered all set, acknowledged the crowd silently at the end, raising his mic stand, both a physical necessity and a symbolic thank-you.

The Amity Affliction delivered a performance rooted in vulnerability, physically through Joel Birch’s visible injury, and emotionally through the music itself. Though stage movement was understandably limited, the band compensated with emotional intensity and sonic precision. Their ability to blend melody with crushing heaviness remains their greatest strength, and despite obstacles, they proved they’re far from slowing down.

Rating: 4/5

Recommended for: Fans seeking raw emotional connection wrapped in polished, heavy, and anthemic metalcore.

Few bands in metalcore evolve as seamlessly as The Devil Wears Prada. From early chaotic roots to atmospheric modern heaviness, their recent live performance proved they’re both survivors and innovators of the genre. Performing tracks ranging from “Danger: Wildman” to newer anthems like “Salt” and “For You,” the band crafted a set that balanced brutality, melody, and emotional resonance. Across eight carefully selected tracks, they demonstrated both technical excellence and emotional authenticity.

Opening with “Watchtower” immediately threw the audience into the deep end. The song’s sharp, stabbing riffs paired with Mike Hranica’s feral screams commanded attention from the first note. Stage lighting leaned heavily on strobes and flashes, matching the song’s kinetic energy. Jeremy DePoyster’s melodic choruses provided just enough relief between verses, while the crowd responded instantly, moshing from the opening breakdown. Launching into “Danger: Wildman” next was both a nod to long-time fans and a deliberate energy escalation. Hranica’s guttural roars here felt raw, nostalgic, yet refined compared to the band’s earlier live years. Guitarists Kyle Sipress and Jon Gering nailed the chaotic, dissonant leads while drummer Giuseppe Capolupo’s precise, punishing blasts grounded the chaos. The shift to “Salt” revealed The Devil Wears Prada’s modern, more atmospheric side. The cleaner production translated well live, with DePoyster’s clean vocals resonating throughout the venue. Hranica’s more restrained delivery allowed the haunting instrumentals to take the spotlight, creating an emotionally rich moment. Lighting effects softened to icy blues, enhancing the track’s introspective mood. “Broken” continued the atmospheric journey. DePoyster’s soaring choruses dominated, with the audience carrying much of the vocal weight during the hooks. Hranica’s backing harsh vocals provided tension, but this song’s emotional depth rested firmly in its melody. Visually, the band reduced their physical movement, focusing instead on layered guitar tones and textural synths. With “Ritual,” the band dragged the audience back into darker, heavier territory. Distorted basslines, ominous synths, and Hranica’s brutal roars dominated, while DePoyster largely stepped back vocally. The visual production returned to deep reds and strobes, matching the track’s ominous mood. Physicality increased on stage, with Hranica prowling once more, using sharp, angular movements to convey menace. “For You” returned to the band’s newer, melody-driven focus. The track’s blend of synth-laden atmosphere and catchy choruses made it a standout. DePoyster took center stage vocally, while Hranica’s mid-range growls added texture. Gering’s keyboards subtly thickened the mix, giving the song its distinctive modern edge. “Chemical” proved to be the set’s emotional centerpiece. From its opening synths to its anthemic chorus, the track felt monumental live. DePoyster’s cleans were crisp and emotionally raw, while Hranica’s occasional screams added balance without overpowering. The band’s physical stage energy diminished here, replaced by an intense emotional delivery. Closing the set with “Sacrifice” was a deliberate choice: end with heaviness. The song’s relentless pace, grinding guitars, and Hranica’s full-bodied screams turned the venue volatile one final time. Lighting effects cycled rapidly between strobes and blackouts, creating disorientation and adding to the chaos. Hranica’s physical delivery intensified, pushing through exhaustion to close with fury.

The Devil Wears Prada’s performance was a masterclass in genre evolution. They proved adept at blending their early chaotic heaviness with their more mature, melody-driven material. Stage production complemented both sides of their sound, while the set pacing balanced aggression with atmosphere. Hranica’s unfiltered energy, combined with DePoyster’s melodic finesse, remains the heart of their live experience.

Rating: 4.5/5

Recommended for: Fans of both classic chaotic metalcore and modern, emotionally driven heaviness.

At this stage in their career, Killswitch Engage could coast on nostalgia. Instead, they continue to sharpen their live performance into a precision blend of metalcore aggression, melodic catharsis, and pure spectacle. Their latest performance, marked by heavy pyro use and a setlist spanning nearly two decades, proved that Killswitch Engage remain not just relevant, but dominant. From the opening blast of “Rose of Sharyn” to the inevitable encore of “Holy Diver”, the Massachusetts metalcore pioneers delivered a set that was both technically flawless and emotionally charged.

Killswitch opened with “Rose of Sharyn”, and from the first chord, the venue was engulfed in flame. Pyro columns erupted behind the band, perfectly timed with guitar stabs, turning the classic anthem into a firestorm both sonically and visually. Jesse Leach’s vocals, equal parts grit and melody, were powerful and clear, while Adam Dutkiewicz and Joel Stroetzel’s guitars stayed tight amidst the chaos. “In Due Time” followed seamlessly, showcasing the band’s ability to shift between aggression and melody. Leach’s cleans soared, with the audience providing backup vocals throughout the chorus. Pyro effects were scaled back here to let the song breathe, relying instead on sweeping lights and fog bursts to complement the music. With “This Fire,” the stage transformed into a literal inferno. Pyro bursts framed the band as Leach roared through the opening lines. The song’s steady tempo allowed for precise fire cueing, turning the chorus into a visual wall of flame. Adam D.’s backing vocals and energetic stage antics provided contrast to Leach’s centered, stoic delivery. Slowing the pace, “I Believe” served as a melodic breather. Pyro subsided to allow the song’s heartfelt tone to take focus. Leach’s clean delivery here felt particularly emotive, supported by Stroetzel’s nuanced guitar work. The audience responded by swaying and singing in unison. Returning to heavier territory, “Hate by Design” reignited the pit. Pyro came roaring back in aggressive bursts, synchronized with double-kick flurries and guitar chugs. Leach’s vocal delivery turned venomous, and the band's tightness as a live unit became even more apparent. As one of their newer offerings, “Forever Aligned” demonstrated Killswitch’s continued evolution. The track’s mid-tempo groove was delivered with mechanical precision, while Leach’s vocal tone shifted between controlled fury and solemn melody. Pyro effects became more dynamic, cycling between flame jets and strobes to mirror the song’s modern, pulsing intensity. Featuring guest vocal sections on the studio version, “The Signal Fire” came alive live as Leach covered both vocal roles seamlessly. Pyro was used strategically here, shorter bursts during verses, erupting fully during the “signal fire” chorus refrain. The riff-driven groove had the entire crowd moving in unison, from the front barricade to the back. “My Curse” provided one of the most powerful crowd singalongs of the night. The iconic opening riff was met with roars, and Leach, returning to a Howard Jones-era classic, delivered with respect and passion. Pyro took a backseat here, with only subtle flame effects accentuating the song’s emotional peaks, while spotlighting and softer strobes guided the atmosphere. “Aftermath” introduced a darker, moodier shift. Pyro was minimal, replaced by heavy fog and deep blue lighting to match the track’s oppressive tone. Leach’s vocals leaned harsh, complemented by the band’s thunderous low-end sound. Visual effects focused more on lighting intensity rather than flame here, diversifying the show’s dynamic palette. If “My Curse” was the emotional apex, “The End of Heartache” was the cathartic release. Flames returned in timed bursts as the band leaned into the song’s sweeping choruses. Fans sang every word, many visibly emotional. Leach’s vocal control shone here, nailing both harsh and clean sections effortlessly. The set’s penultimate track, “My Last Serenade”, tapped into pure nostalgia. Leach, taking over this Jones-era anthem, delivered an impeccable performance. Pyro erupted with the opening chords, framing the band in golden flame jets. The crowd energy reached near-manic levels, sustaining through every breakdown and chorus. Few covers carry the weight of “Holy Diver”, and Killswitch Engage’s rendition felt like a victory lap. Pyro was unleashed at full force, jets, bursts, and stage walls of flame emphasized every iconic riff. Leach’s vocals honored Dio while adding his own grit, and the band visibly enjoyed the communal energy radiating from the crowd.

Killswitch Engage’s performance wasn’t just a concert, it was a full-scale production, blending musical precision with calculated visual onslaught. Pyro was used not as a gimmick, but as a rhythmic, atmospheric tool. Every flame burst punctuated the music’s aggression, every lighting cue enhanced its emotional weight. Musically, the band remains at their peak, tight, relentless, and emotionally authentic. Whether delivering nostalgic anthems or modern heavy-hitters, Killswitch Engage proved once again why they’re the standard-bearers of metalcore.

Rating: 5/5

Recommended for: Anyone craving a perfect blend of melody, aggression, and live spectacle.

Few bands in modern metalcore can balance brute force with emotional vulnerability like Beartooth. On this night, however, they didn’t just balance the two, they mastered them. In a set that earned Performance of the Night honors, Beartooth delivered a relentless, pyro-heavy spectacle defined by Caleb Shomo’s unshakable command of the stage and a crowd that responded with deafening, relentless energy. This wasn’t just a performance. It was a communal release.

Opening with “The Lines”, Beartooth wasted no time seizing control. Shomo’s scream pierced through waves of flame jets as vertical pyro erupted in sync with the opening breakdown. The crowd ignited instantly, matching the band’s energy as a wall of sound surged from the pit. Shomo’s trademark rasp sounded raw yet refined, every word screamed back by thousands. With “The Past Is Dead”, Beartooth leaned into their melodic side. The chorus’ massive hooks saw Caleb step back and let the crowd take the lead, their collective voices rising above the guitars and pyro blasts. Shomo’s charisma was effortless, what little movement he had to make sparked instant response. The tonal shift to “Sunshine!” brought a more upbeat, energetic vibe without sacrificing heaviness. Bright lighting combined with precise flame jets created a colorful yet aggressive aesthetic. Shomo’s clean vocals rang clear, proving his versatility, while guitarists Zach Huston and Will Deely propelled the groove. With “ATTN.”, Beartooth unleashed one of their heaviest live tracks. Pyro roared relentlessly here, matching the song’s punishing breakdowns. Shomo’s harsh vocals were scathing, delivered while prowling the stage like a caged animal. Crowd surfers poured over the barricades as the pit churned nonstop. When “Disease” kicked in, the set reached its first true emotional peak. The chorus became a shared catharsis, as thousands sang every word back with enough force to drown out the PA system. Shomo paced slowly, eyes closed at moments, clearly connecting with both the lyrics and audience. “Doubt Me” leaned into Beartooth’s self-empowerment themes. Shomo’s energy here turned defiant, spitting the lyrics with venom and pacing the stage as though daring anyone to challenge him. Pyro was deployed with military precision, punching the breakdowns with aggressive blasts. “I Was Alive” provided a temporary respite from the aggression. Shomo’s clean vocals took center stage, emotionally raw yet technically crisp. Lighting softened to blues and whites, while pyro was reserved for key chorus moments. The mood shifted to reflection without losing intensity. With “Might Love Myself”, Beartooth delivered a message of self-acceptance wrapped in stadium-ready rock energy. Pyro returned in rhythmic bursts to accent the chorus, but the star here was the crowd participation. Fans jumped, clapped, and sang in unison, turning the arena into one massive celebration. The surprise instrumental “The Last Riff” showcased Beartooth’s musicianship. Without vocals to drive the song, pyro and lighting took full control of the atmosphere, syncing perfectly with the massive, downtuned riffs. The band spread across the stage, performing with wild physicality as synchronized pyro walls erupted behind them. Returning to groove-heavy territory, “You Never Know” pulled the crowd into a dance-pit frenzy. Shomo directed the audience like a general, orchestrating clap-alongs and jump segments effortlessly. Pyro pulses accentuated the track’s rhythmic backbone. “Riptide” brought a moment of sunshine both visually and sonically. The venue lit up with bright lighting while pyro jets burst in yellow and white, mirroring the track’s uplifting tone. The chorus was yet another deafening singalong, with Shomo visibly moved by the response. Closing with “In Between”, Beartooth ended their set not just with a song, but with a communal experience. Every lyric felt like a mantra shouted by the entire venue. Pyro was used sparingly during verses, but unleashed in massive waves during choruses and breakdowns. Shomo, arms raised, stood silhouetted against walls of flame during the final chorus, a perfect visual summary of a night that fused vulnerability with power.

From start to finish, Beartooth’s performance was a masterclass in fan connection, controlled chaos, and live showmanship. Pyro didn’t overshadow the music, it amplified it, creating rhythmic, atmospheric emphasis that mirrored the emotional and sonic shifts of each song. Caleb Shomo’s ability to captivate a crowd was undeniable. Whether screaming, singing, or simply standing still, he commanded every eye and ear. The audience, in turn, delivered one of the loudest, most engaged performances of the night, transforming Beartooth’s set into a shared emotional catharsis.

Rating: 5/5

Performance of the Night: Earned not by spectacle alone, but by emotional authenticity, musical tightness, and fan synergy.

In the wake of clean vocalist Brian Burkheiser’s recent departure, fans wondered how I Prevail would adapt. The answer came swiftly and unapologetically: with fire, fury, and a new sense of purpose. With guitarist Dylan Bowman stepping into clean vocal duties, and pyro-heavy production amplifying every beat, I Prevail’s latest performance was both a statement of resilience and a showcase of their sonic evolution.

Opening with “Bow Down”, I Prevail made their intentions clear: no slowing down. Pyro columns erupted alongside Eric Vanlerberghe’s snarled vocals, his presence aggressive and commanding. Bowman’s backing vocals, while subtle, hinted early at his increased role. The crowd response was immediate, a wall of movement and noise. “Body Bag” kept the pace punishing. Vanlerberghe delivered guttural roars with ferocity, while Bowman’s melodic chorus contributions added depth without softening the edge. His tone felt honest, if still finding its live footing. Pyro jets and horizontal flame blasts created an intense, claustrophobic atmosphere fitting the track’s lyrical bitterness. With “Self-Destruction”, I Prevail leaned into groove-heavy aggression. The rhythmic syncopation of guitars was emphasized by pulsing lighting and timed flame bursts. Vanlerberghe’s dynamic command of the pit became apparent here, orchestrating crowd participation effortlessly. A tonal shift emerged with “There’s Fear in Letting Go”, where Bowman stepped more prominently into lead clean vocals. His delivery felt raw but honest, drawing the crowd into the track’s reflective, somber tone. Pyro softened here, replaced with cool-toned lighting and atmospheric fog that mirrored the emotional undercurrent. with “Violent Nature”, the aggression surged once more. Vanlerberghe dominated the stage, his roars cutting through layers of pyro and lighting. The absence of Brian’s soaring cleans was most noticeable here, but the band leaned into heaviness, and the audience met them with walls of moshing and crowd-surfing. Their “Blank Space” cover brought the night’s most unexpected shift. While a studio novelty, live, the track transformed into an audience-wide singalong. Pyro flanked the verses with restrained bursts, while the choruses saw full-stage flames light up. Bowman owned the vocal spotlight here, delivering both grit and melody, winning over skeptics. “Into Hell” gave both the band and audience a momentary breather without sacrificing power. Vanlerberghe’s cleans carried much of the track, handled with steady composure. Pyro returned in slower, rolling waves, accentuating the song’s measured pacing. The visual production leaned minimalist but effective. “Bad Things” showcased I Prevail’s atmospheric side. Bowman’s clean vocals were crucial here and delivered with steady confidence. Pyro effects became more theatrical, pulsing in time with bass drops and vocal swells. The track felt like a reflective reset before the final sprint. Returning to pure weight, “Choke” maintained high energy with groove-driven riffs and thick low-end sound. Pyro patterns echoed the rhythmic backbone, providing visual percussion. Vanlerberghe’s stage presence stayed dominant, though Bowman’s backing cleans provided necessary melodic tension. As “Hurricane” hit, the band leaned heavily into their melodic core. Here, Bowman carried nearly the entire clean vocal burden, and succeeded. His performance, though less polished than Burkheiser’s legacy delivery, felt heartfelt and resonant. Fans responded with a massive, venue-wide singalong that reaffirmed their emotional connection to the track. Closing the set with “Gasoline” was the final act of calculated violence. Full-stage pyro walls, coordinated flame jets, and strobes turned the venue into a sensory overload. Vanlerberghe’s aggressive vocals paired with the crushing breakdowns provided a final energy surge. Bowman, supporting with screamed harmonies, contributed to the layered chaos.

I Prevail’s performance stood as both a statement of resilience and a testament to adaptation. The absence of Brian Burkheiser was noticeable, his vocal finesse and charisma left a void, but Dylan Bowman’s clean vocal work proved promising, honest, and increasingly confident as the set progressed. Combined with Eric Vanlerberghe’s unwavering command of the heavy vocals, and a staggering pyro-heavy production, the band proved their forward momentum is intact. This was a show about more than just surviving change, it was about embracing it.

Rating: 4/5

Recommended for: Fans of modern metalcore craving pyro-heavy spectacle, sonic brutality, and authentic emotional connection.

In the realm of modern metalcore, few bands execute their vision with the sheer intensity and calculated spectacle of Parkway Drive. Their most recent performance wasn’t just a show—it was a fully weaponized assault on the senses, combining precision musicianship, relentless crowd engagement, and some of the most jaw-dropping pyro and stage design seen all night. From the opening blast of “Glitch” to the rotating-drumkit finale of “Crushed,” Parkway Drive proved once again why they stand among the genre’s elite. This was an audio-visual masterclass in controlled chaos.

Parkway opened with “Glitch”, immediately unleashing waves of flame that shot skyward as Winston McCall stormed the stage with raw ferocity. The sync between pyro pulses and the track’s electronic-laced breakdowns made for a disorienting yet thrilling start, like falling into a fever dream of sound and fire. “Prey” delivered a perfect mix of groove and rage, with the chorus prompting massive singalongs across the floor. Pyro blasted rhythmically with the double-kick drum, creating a hypnotic, battlefield-like atmosphere. The band’s tightness shone as Jeff Ling’s guitar leads soared above the chaos. With “Sleepwalker”, Parkway dove into relentless chugging rhythms and thrash energy. The crowd responded with a circle pit that nearly swallowed the front rows. The band’s stage presence was pure discipline, tight, aggressive, and visually synchronized with the constantly firing pyro units. A deep, lumbering cut like “The Void” offered a welcome shift in pace. Here, the pyro transformed into slower, sweeping flame waves that matched the track’s doom-laced heaviness. McCall stalked the stage like a predator, drawing the audience into the void both lyrically and physically. Parkway’s crowd favorite “Vice Grip” brought massive melodic hooks and an arena rock sensibility. Fans screamed every word back, fists pumping as the stage erupted in coordinated fire jets with every downbeat. It was defiant, empowering, and oddly uplifting despite the aggression. One of the more ambient-heavy tracks of the set, “Sacred” brought in eerie lighting and blue-tinted flame for a hauntingly beautiful contrast. The band’s dynamic range was on full display, balancing melody and menace effortlessly. This was the unrelenting "let it all out" moment. “Bottom Feeder” dropped like a ton of bricks, with pyro matching every kick, snare, and scream. The pit exploded with chaos as the band went into full war mode. Parkway’s modern classic “Wild Eyes” brought the emotional high point of the night. The crowd sang the intro melody en masse before the band even hit the first note. It was a rare metalcore moment of stadium-sized catharsis, wrapped in distortion and defiance. If Parkway Drive wanted to end with a bang, “Crushed” detonated like a nuclear warhead. The intro was met with full-stage pyro bursts and strobes, but the true showstopper was drummer Ben Gordon’s custom steel cage setup. As the final breakdown hit, the entire drum kit rotated 360 degrees, flipping upside down in mid-air while Gordon kept playing flawlessly. The crowd’s reaction was nothing short of stunned awe.

From calculated pacing to eye-popping visuals, Parkway Drive turned their set into an audio-visual siege. The pyro was relentless, but never gratuitous, each blast was carefully timed to heighten musical tension or underline lyrical meaning. Winston McCall’s control over the crowd was masterful. His guttural roars, unfiltered charisma, and precision timing gave the performance a primal, almost gladiatorial feel. Backed by a band at the peak of technical confidence, and a literal rotating drum cage, this was no mere concert. It was a metal spectacle engineered to overwhelm and uplift.

Rating: 5/5

Recommended For: Fans of theatrical metalcore, adrenaline-pumping stage shows, or anyone who wants their heavy music laced with spectacle, sincerity, and pure visual power.

As the final notes of Parkway Drive’s incendiary headlining set echoed through the Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre, it was clear that Summer of Loud had lived up to its name, and then some. From the crushing breakdowns of Kingdom of Giants to the relentless aggression of Alpha Wolf, the emotionally charged anthems of The Amity Affliction, and the genre-defining chaos brought by The Devil Wears Prada, the undercard delivered with uncompromising ferocity. But it was the heavyweights: Killswitch Engage, Beartooth, I Prevail, and Parkway Drive, who turned a scorching summer night into a full-scale sonic baptism, blending catharsis, community, and pure volume. In a time when live music continues to remind us of its power to connect, Summer of Loud stood tall as a visceral, unifying celebration of modern heavy music at its most electrifying.