Summer of Loud: Irvine California
The Summer of Loud Tour made a stop in Irvine, showcasing a powerful lineup that delivered intense music at full volume, highlighted by an electrifying performance from Beartooth. The night also featured impressive sets from Australian metalcore band Alpha Wolf, who offered a blend of crushing yet controlled heaviness that was a joy to watch.
The Amity Affliction created an unforgettable moment during their performance when lead vocalist Joel Birch broke his ankle after a jump gone wrong. Despite his injury, he finished the set while seated and resting his foot in a cooler of ice, impressing fans with his resilience.
Killswitch Engage delivered one of the most polished performances of the night. Jesse Leach's vocals were powerful and consistent, while Adam Dutkiewicz added personality and humor between songs, all while skillfully shredding through riffs. They focused on fan favorites like "My Curse" and "The End of Heartache," engaging the entire crowd from start to finish. This set served as a reminder of why Killswitch Engage is considered one of the most respected names in heavy music.
Parkway Drive delivered a powerful performance that truly showcased their talent and passion, proving that they don’t need flashy pyrotechnics to make an impression. Frontman Winston McCall took control of the stage with an engaging presence, pouring his energy and emotion into every song. The band’s music resonated deeply with the audience, creating a vibrant atmosphere that was both exciting and personal.
It’s easy to see why Parkway Drive has such a dedicated fan base. They consistently demonstrate their commitment to their craft, bringing a genuine sense of enthusiasm to each performance. Their connection with the crowd made for an unforgettable experience, as they shared their love for music and the joy of performing. Every song not only entertains but also inspires, highlighting the incredible bond they share with their fans.
I Prevail, having recently parted ways with their lead singer, had some kinks to work out. This was my first time seeing them without Brian Burkheiser, and the shift was clear. Dylan Bowman stepped into clean vocals, and while the effort was there, the set lacked the usual chemistry and polish. At times, it felt like the band was working hard just to keep momentum rather than performing with complete confidence. It wasn’t their sharpest night, but it showed a band determined to push through change.
Beartooth wrapped up the day with an energetic performance that only Caleb Shomo could deliver. As soon as the band took the stage, Caleb became a whirlwind of movement, fully engaging the audience with his dynamic presence. Shirtless and charging across the stage, his vocal abilities were remarkable as he effortlessly transitioned from powerful screams to the polished clean vocals he is known for. The fans were instantly captivated, shouting every lyric back and turning the entire set into an interactive experience.
They opened with “The Lines” from their album Disgusting, showcasing Caleb's versatility as the band played several tracks from other albums, including Disease and their latest album, The Surface. Closing the night with “In Between,” Beartooth demonstrated their talent for blending aggressive musical elements with anthemic hooks. This particular set was a testament to why they hold a prominent place in the music industry, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in live performances.
