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Nothing More was formed back in 2003 when Jonny Hawkins and Mark Vollelunga met as teenagers at a church camp, bonded over music and began jamming together. The San Antonio-based musicians launched the band after high school and spent the 2000s recording independent releases and touring regionally while undergoing frequent lineup changes. They’ve come a long way since those early days, back when Hawkins wasn’t even the lead singer. Initially, Hawkins was the band’s drummer.

During the subsequent two decades, Nothing More has continually evolved and is now a mainstay on hard rock stations across the country. The band’s critically-acclaimed seventh studio album, Carnal, features four chart-topping singles and had some of the biggest names in the industry lining up to collaborate with them.

Nothing More — with support from Catch Your Breath, Archers and Doobie — kicked off the North American leg of the “Carnal Nature World Tour” at The Fillmore, in Silver Spring, Maryland. The show marked the first of 37 headlining shows across the United States and Canada, rampaging into 2026 in style.

Each of the supporting acts put on a fantastic show and, by the time frontman Jonny Hawkins, guitarist Mark Vollelunga, bassist Daniel Oliver and drummer Ben Anderson all took to the stage, the standing-room-only crowd roared its approval.

For the first song on the first night of the tour, the three-time Grammy nominated performers opted for “House of Sand” (which features Eric Vanlerberghe from I Prevail on the album version). It’s an aggressive, in-your-face manifesto designed to kick the doors in and get the party started as quickly as possible. Mission accomplished.

The second track of the night was “Angel Song” (which features David Draiman of Disturbed on the album version). This radio-friendly anthem was another smart choice as an early tone setter for the evening, showcasing each member of the band in a highly-energy fashion.

As always, Hawkins took to the stage both shirtless and shoeless. With boundless energy, he prowled every inch of the stage ensuring fans in all corners of the building were acknowledged and felt appreciated. It’s also worth noting the jacked frontman donned body paint, creating an aesthetic that would make a professional wrestler proud. After the show, Hawkins admitted on his social media that he had dealt with a serious migraine throughout the show, but much to his credit, no one else in attendance had a clue.

Witnessing “Let ‘em Burn” live and in person was a high-intensity experience that felt both visceral and deeply personal. When Hawkins bellowed “Everybody!” he could have been talking about all those in attendance hanging on his every word.

“If It Doesn’t Hurt” is the sort of track designed to be blasted at full volume on a road trip or during an all-day music festival. At this point, the connection with this evening’s audience was readily apparent. A constant theme during Nothing More live shows is a sense of community and passion. While they draw a diverse crowd — ranging from little ones up way past their bedtime on a school night to crowd-surfers dressed in Slipknot masks and jumpsuits — everyone was smiling and singing along.

“Go to War” is arguably the band’s most popular and successful song. It was Grammy nominated, featured in promotional material for “War for the Planet of the Apes” and used in several television spots and sports broadcasts. The band’s high-octane performance of the smash hit was easily a highlight of the night. Another incredible moment was when the charismatic frontman slowed things down to honor the memory of his sister with a touching performance of “Jenny.” Had the band only played those two tracks and then called it a night, it would have been worth the price of admission alone.

The video for “FREEFALL (featuring Chris Daughtry)” tells the story of a firefighter struggling with his mental health who unexpectedly finds a new life direction after a chance encounter with a homeless dog. The touching video features actor Michael Lombardi, who previously played a firefighter in the hit show “Rescue Me.” Additionally, Nothing More partnered with K9s For Warriors, an amazing organization that provides highly-trained service dogs to military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury, at no financial cost to the veteran.

Music with a message is nothing new for the band. They previously donated money from ticket sales during past tours to a non-profit named To Write Love on Her Arms — an organization dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide.

Because of their willingness to address important themes, like mental health, social injustice and personal growth, it’s easy to support a band like Nothing More, especially when they come to town. The final track of the night was “This Is the Time (Ballast),” which longtime fans likely know is the song that helped put Nothing More on the map, in many ways. After years of independent released music, it helped them break into mainstream rock radio and touring circuits. Twelve years later, the track still delivers.

These four gentlemen pour their hearts and souls into their music and continually raise the bar with both their music and their live performances. If this is what they deliver on a night when members of the band were less than 100 percent, it’s easy to see why Nothing More has such a tight bond with their audiences as they sell out venues across the country.

When the powerhouse duo of A Day To Remember and Yellowcard announced they were teaming up for a massive North American extravaganza known as the Maximum Fun Tour, the only question left was — how far do I have to travel to see this can’t-miss show?

Fortunately, the colossal 36-stop tour, which kicked off at the beginning of September and runs through the end of November, swung through Jiffy Lube Live for a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Since their formation in 2003, A Day To Remember has amassed nearly two billion streams worldwide and sales of three million-plus units — including a platinum album, two gold albums, one platinum single and four gold singles. They’ve also consistently packed arenas on continental tours while attracting millions of fans worldwide.

In February, ADTR surprised fans with the shock-release of their latest album, simply known as A Day To Remember’s Big Ole Album Vol. 1. The release represented the band’s first new album since 2021’s You’re Welcome, and is their eighth album overall. Like each of their previous full-length albums, it wasted little time in ascending to number one on the Billboard Rock, Indie and/or Alternative Chart.

For those who are new here, A Day To Remember is: vocalist Jeremy McKinnon, lead guitarist Kevin Skaff, rhythm guitarist Neil Westfall, drummer Alex Shelnutt and, for this tour at least, bassist Bobby Lynge (of Fit For a King). And on this night, the band also included more than 10,000 honorary members/backup singers.

Wasting little time, A Day To Remember kicked things off with “The Downfall of Us All,” a flagship offering with an electric intro which ensured those in attendance were in for a memorable show. The certified gold single from 2009 showed just how locked in and ready the entire audience was, as they loudly and proudly sang along with the boys from Ocala, Florida. The strong singalong vibes continued as the band immediately tore into the second song of the evening, “I’m Made of Wax, Larry, What Are You Made Of?”

For the uninitiated, A Day To Remember shows could be somewhat jarring. The heaviest pop punk band in the business always presents a strong sense of camaraderie, both from the band members on stage and with the audience. Think about seeing Rocky Horror Picture Show in the theater, where audience participation is highly encouraged. That’s what it was like to be on the rail or in the pit for ADTR. Not only were there countless singalong opportunities, but there were also beach balls, oversized inflatable basketballs (complete with giant basketball hoops), confetti, streamers, toilet paper, smoke and pyro. Oh, and just when you think you’ve seen it all, Super Mario appeared on stage armed with a t-shirt cannon.

The first new offering of the evening was “Bad Blood,” (not Taylor’s version). With explosions of pyro, McKinnon and company tackled one of the heaviest tracks of the new album. As heart rates began to race, they followed it up with “Paranoia” and then “Resentment.” That trio of aggressive anthems had fans crowd surfing, head banging and circling the pit with reckless abandon. As the band seamlessly switched from a blink-182 sound to that of Killswitch Engage, their passionate and vocal audience roared its approval throughout. One minute the crowd gleefully bellowed out the chorus to a pop anthem; the next a circle pit opened up on the floor. None of it felt forced. All of it delivered amazing energy throughout the venue.

Other highlights throughout the night include “All My Friends” (a drinking song that features WWE superstar Seth “Freaking” Rollins in the music video), “LeBron” (a tribute to the King James and the 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers) and “The Plot to Bomb the Panhandle” (an aggressive and beloved throwback to the band’s early days).

As the show began to wind down, the band played another new track, which is a personal favorite, called “Closer Than You Think.” They then slowed things down with an acoustic rendition of their most streamed song, “If It Means a Lot to You,” followed by “Flowers.” The pairing of those specific songs made perfect sense thematically, with the first track highlighting the difficulty of being away from loved ones and the second song focusing on the importance of expressing love and appreciation for the important people in your life before it’s too late. And while life on the road as a touring musician can obviously be difficult, closing with “All Signs Point to Lauderdale” (a song about their hometown that starts with the not-so-subtle lyrics “I hate this town”) seemed perfectly fitting. No matter where you go or how long you’re away, you can always go home … even if that home is better visited in small doses.

After inspiring sets from The Wonder Years and Boundaries, it was Yellowcard’s time to shine. And what better way to set off on a nostalgia trip down memory lane than to kick things off with the Top Gun theme?

With minimal lighting, lead guitarist Ryan Mendez strolled out onto the stage and began strumming one of the most iconic and instantly recognizable riffs in pop culture history. Violinist Sean Mackin then accompanied Mendez on stage in a duet that sounded so good, you half expected Tom Cruise to appear in a flight suit.

While the Hollywood icon did not make a cameo appearance, the theatrical opening coupled with the dramatic individual introductions of each remaining band member – vocalist William Ryan Key, bassist Josh Portman and drummer Jimmy Brunkvist (of Like Torches) – helped build the moment while simultaneously firing up the packed crowd at Jiffy Lube Live. The loud and enthusiastic ovation that followed was both fitting and a sign of things to come for the evening.

Before fans could settle into their seats, the Jacksonville band immediately launched into “Only One” followed by “Lights and Sounds,” which delivered a mix of emotional depth while continuing to raise the energy level from the jump. The title track from their 2006 album, Lights and Sounds, was clearly a hit with those in attendance – which makes sense because it was one of the band’s highest charting songs (reaching No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart) until “Better Days” hit number one earlier this year.

Before “Lights and Sounds” kicked off, audio of Mikey’s heartwarming speech: “Down here, it’s our time. It’s our time down here!” from The Goonies kept the nostalgia vibes going strong. Additional references to “Back to the Future,” “E.T.,” “Say Anything” and “Karate Kid” were sprinkled in throughout the rest of the set.

A few songs later, Yellowcard debuted “honestly i,” a catchy, new song that could easily find itself in regular rotation on playlists and radio stations. The track, “Believe,” provided a chance for Mackin and his violin to shine. Later on, “Light Up the Sky” allowed Brunkvist to tear into his drum kit the best way possible.

While so much of the show harkens back to a different era, thanks to countless retro references and a massive set that included an oversized VHS tape, it made sense the band was feeling a bit nostalgic.

“There are thousands and thousands of fans singing along with Yellowcard in 2025,” Key said during a brief break in the action. “There was a time when we didn’t think we were going to play together again, and now we’re playing the biggest shows of our careers. Thank you, guys, for your support.”

Key and the rest of the band doesn’t take any of this for granted, especially after they disbanded in 2017. Thankfully, they reunited in 2022 and are now reaching heights that were previously unimaginable.

“We’re 25 years into our careers and this is our first number one song,” said Key. “This song’s called ‘Better Days.’ Let’s go.”

As noted, “Better Days” became Yellowcard’s first-ever number one single on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart this summer. Incredibly, that achievement also set a record for the longest gap between an artist’s first appearance on the chart to their first number one hit. They’re not just clinging to past glory. They’re re-writing history.

After playing their newest hit, there was truly only one way for Yellowcard to end the night — with the biggest hit. Ending the set with “Ocean Avenue” gave the evening a climactic, cathartic release as they circled back to their certified (twice) platinum smash hit from two decades ago. The entire evening showed how to strike a perfect balance between fan favorites and fresh, new material.

Speaking of new material, Better Days is the band’s first full feature length album in nearly a decade, and the highly-anticipated album is produced by blink-182’s Travis Barker, who also played drums on every track. Fans of high-energy pop punk with a signature violin twist, are surely counting down the days until its release.

An aggressively stacked lineup headlined by Beartooth, I Prevail, Killswitch Engage and Parkway Drive hit the road on a massive 25-stop North America tour, with support from The Devil Wears Prada, The Amity Affliction, Alpha Wolf and Dark Divine.

These heavyweights of hard rock and masters of metal swung through Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, Virginia, for the second-to-last stop on the “Summer of Loud” tour.

Despite the sweltering heat, thousands of enthusiastic metalheads packed the sold-out venue for a marathon of music. Each band in the ridiculously loaded lineup fed off the loud and rowdy crowd, delivering a string of high-energy performances that continually raised the bar to impressive heights.

The first of the four headliners to perform was Beartooth, who have been on a massive trajectory over the last few years. Thanks to an ever-expanding catalog of hits and one of the best live shows in the industry, Beartooth was the band I was most excited for on this day, and they certainly didn’t disappoint.

Let me say this up front: no one expends more energy during a concert than frontman Caleb Shomo. From the moment he first materialized on stage until his final note, the pride of Westerville, Ohio jumped, screamed, bounced, flailed, growled and bellowed like a madman utterly possessed. In fact, Shomo refused to be confined to the stage during his performance, jumping down early in the set so he could be closer to the rabid audience devouring his every beautifully chaotic note. With some steadying hands from security, Caleb was able to prop himself up on the barricade and sing an up close and personal verse with the masses.

While that made for an exciting few seconds for fans closest to the barricade, it was not the most noteworthy moment of their set. Shomo makes time during each performance to spotlight mental health, sharing some of the trials and tribulations he’s been through during his time in the public spotlight. By all accounts, he’s in a good place these days and it carries through to the music. His search for inner peace and happiness is incredibly personal and uplifting, and his willingness to share with others is incredibly noble and important.

While the entire show featured a raw, unfiltered and vulnerable Shomo, “In Between” showcased these aspects at their absolute best. After admonishing one concertgoer mid-song by halting everything to exclaim, “We don’t fight at a Beartooth show!” Shomo launched back into the final track, which featured a beautiful call and response with the crowd. Without the benefit of a microphone, the frontman stood center stage and bellowed out the hook. Thousands of passionate fans replied heartily with a full-throated response. At that precise moment, Caleb had the entire venue in the palm of his hand and it was beautiful.

Back in May, I Prevail announced a mutually parting of ways with founding member Brian Burkheiser. After a decade together, the band was moving on without one of their main vocalists. Roughly two months later, I was eager to see how the lineup change impacted their live performance.

From day one, I Prevail’s signature sound has revolved around a dual-vocal dynamic, featuring clean vocals by Burkheiser and dirty vocals from Eric Vanlerberghe. Intrigue set in as the band filed onto the stage. How exactly would they navigate the melodic portions of their catalog in this new chapter? We were all about to find out.

I Prevail threw down the gauntlet immediately by starting their set with a screamer like “Bow Down.” They weren’t there to play it safe or ease into this performance. Regardless of the changes to the band’s roster, the Michigan rockers were intent on delivering something special.

They kept the aggression level high with “Body Bag,” another fast-paced and aggressive banger. Vanlerberghe delivered his signature sound while he lurked in the shadows on stage. Rhythm guitarist Dylan Bowman provided additional vocals, admirably filling the void created by Burkheiser’s surprising departure. All of which occurred while pyro jets blasted into the air with each downbeat. The high energy and breakneck pace of the set was already both impressive and exhausting.

During “Violent Nature,” the band welcomed Kage Archer, a 12-year-old from Wichita, Kansas, onto the stage. The middle schooler had recently won the band’s $5,000 Violent Nature contest, and this was his time to shine. Anyone who mistakenly viewed the moment as a publicity stunt or a charity case quickly realized this kid was legit as he confidently roared alongside Eric with a raw, fearless and infectious energy that proved he belonged.

Before “Hurricane,” the band paused to honor Dave Shapiro, the prominent music agent who died in a plane crash earlier this year. In a heartfelt moment, they thanked him for believing in them and giving them a shot when they were in the early stages of establishing themselves as I Prevail. It was a very touching tribute to their former manager, agent and longtime friend.

The sprawling amphitheater was at full capacity as Killswitch Engage took the stage, greeted by a loud roar from the sold-out crowd. The Massachusetts metalcore veterans, known for their blend of crushing riffs, soaring melodies and emotional intensity, wasted no time diving head-first into their set.

The show opened with “Rose of Sharyn,” from the band’s 2004 The End of Heartache album. The recognizable guitar riff surged through the oversized speakers as fans sang along, nearly drowning out frontman Jesse Leach. It’s a passionate start with great energy that established the tone for the rest of the evening.

For more than 25 years, they’ve brought their special brand of kickass to the genre, which was on full display during “I Believe.” As the guitar kicked in and Leach bellowed out the opening lyrics, which double as the song’s title, circle pits quickly opened again. Up next was “Hate by Design,” with its socially conscious lyrics that appeared to resonate strongly with many in attendance.

When the opening chords of “My Curse” hit, the reaction was immediate and overwhelming. This song, one of Killswitch Engage’s most commercially successful singles, earned the night’s loudest ovation. The audience couldn’t wait to belt out the chorus while a sea of cell phones lit up across the venue to capture the moment. As the setlist got heavier and heavier, guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz’s infectious energy and unique brand of humor created an amusing juxtaposition — his “I’m with stupid” t-shirt, “Beer” headband and pizza-themed guitar clearly created a distinct vibe.

Finally, Killswitch Engage closed out the night with a cover of Dio’s “Holy Diver.” They’ve performed the track so well for so long, it wouldn’t be a surprise if many younger fans weren’t aware it was a cover song. Regardless of when and how fans were first introduced to it, thousands of voices had little trouble belting out the words, ending the set on an adrenaline high.

The humid Virginia air was thick with anticipation as the sun set, lights dimmed and headliners Parkway Drive appeared on stage. The Australian metalcore titans proved to be worthy of their main-event status, as they closed out the Summer of Loud festivities in emphatic fashion.

Because they don’t tour very often and hadn’t played in Virginia in more than seven years, many in attendance — myself included — were experiencing the powerhouse phenomenon for the first time. Fortunately for everyone involved, Parkway Drive absolutely lived up to the heightened expectations.

Immediate first impression: Frontman Winston McCall struck an imposing figure, stomping and stalking the stage as if he was a gladiator impatiently awaiting his next overmatched opponent. The stage erupted with strobes as the menacing McCall growled the opening notes of “Glitch” with ferocious energy, and we were officially underway.

The mood intensified once again as the band shifted into “Sacred,” a wrecking ball of an anthem that was highly enjoyable to experience in person. The sheer heaviness of the song translated perfectly in a live setting, and Winston encouraged the chaos, grinning as he watched the floor churn like a storm. It was at this exact moment I said to myself, “Parkway Drive has arrived and this place belongs to them.”

While their set had many memorable moments, “Crushed” easily stood out as the most transcendent moment of the evening. That’s because, when one of the premier live metal acts of the modern era breaks out a production spectacle that leaves fans completely speechless, you know you’re witnessing something special. To that end, Parkway Drive finished off the night with a spinning flaming drum cage that can best be described as a hamster wheel of death.

As the drum kit inverted, it was difficult to tell if Ben Gordon was playing the drums or training with NASA. When the cage was lit on fire, I began to suspect Gordon was preparing to be the first drummer in history to play on the sun. As a professional photographer who has been covering concerts for decades, it’s not often you see something so completely unique and different, but Parkway Drive absolutely created an epic visual to cap off a magnificent evening of live music.