We Are Story Tellers
It was not a typical Monday night in Montreal this week as Creed came to the Bell Centre in Montreal. Performing in the city for the first time since October of 1999, over 25 years ago! Along with them they brought a monstrous line up of Finger Eleven, another early 2000s rock band that had people on their feet. As well as a younger band, Mammoth, whose vocalist is Wolf Van Halen, the son of the legendary Eddie Van Halen. A huge night of rock music for a city driven by music.
First on was Finger Eleven, a band that I remember seeing on MuchMusic well getting ready for a Scout camp when I was a kid, (it was the premiere for Paralyzer). The band was just as expected live, absolutely incredible. Vocalist Scott Anderson showed just how strong his vocal cords are, an unbelievable performance. Both Guitarists James Black and Rick Jackett showed amazing energy on stage during all 7 songs, it was constant entertainment as they swung their guitars around the stage. A truly memorable performance by such legendary musicians.
Up next was a band I wasn’t to familiar with, but a band with heavy roots in the rock music community. Wolfgang Van Halen the lead vocalist and guitarist is the son of hard rock legend Eddie Van Halen. After the disbandment of Van Halen following Eddies death, Wolfgang formed Mammoth to continue his music career and his families legacy. Another quick 7 song set, but did it ever leave a lasting impression on the crowd. Heavy guitar solos, and amazing vocals made for an incredible act. I also noticed a couple days after the show on a video that was on WolfGangs Instagram that he was playing his dads guitar during the show in Montreal, which is such a crazy thing to think about, what its seen and where its been. All in all, Mammoth did not disappoint, if you ever have the chance to see these guys, don’t miss the opportunity, because they are going to be BIG.
A band with much internal controversies over the years, and a 2004 breakup, which lasted until 2009 and then again in 2012 to start an 11 year hiatus. They came back this year in full force with a huge tour, and celebrating being back together after so long. The show was incredible, with pyro from the very first song. Scott Stapp introduced each song as if it was the next chapter in a book, always addressing the audience in a calm voice, showing such passion for his music. During the set, guitarist Mark Tremonti took to the mic to address the audience and offer something nobody ever expected, a chance to take home one of his cherished guitars to the person who showed the most energy during the next song. The winner? A very young boy named James, who was called up to the stage along with his father to received the guitar in front of a packed Bell Centre. The band played hits like Higher, Are You Ready and My Own Prison, following the 14 song set list with a 2 song encore which includes the fan favourite songs One Last Breath and Sacrifice.
A truly amazing night of rock music filled the ears of Montrealers alike. One of my favourite concerts of 2024 by far. I am more than excited for the return of any of these three bands.
Send us a message here
© Hidden Beats Corp. All Rights Reserved 2020