Staind

Staind with special guest Aranda, and Man Made Machine at the House of Blues in Chicago

A few years ago I saw Staind headline and I was left with the feeling that I was missing something; not sure if the arena venue was too big to capture the true essence of a band this good. So when I saw they were playing at the House of Blues in Chicago, I felt I needed to see them in this setting and I proved to be right because it sounded amazing and was a very emotional night of music.

I was able to sit down with guitarist, Mike Mushok for an interview - you can click on here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmOgytIlsg8&context=C3aca4e3ADOEgsToPDskLYNvNaeuxNimSStIaTsQk6 to watch. Arron Lewis was going to join us but with recent vocal issues, he had to sit this interview out to save his voice. Both opening bands did a good job getting the crowd worked up and ready to go, but this crowd was all about Staind and held back till the lights dimmed to let it all explode. Tonight, they had to scratch off the first song, Spleen and opened with Falling, Right Here, and Eyes Wide Open of the kick-ass new self titled album. If you have not heard the new album, you’re missing out on one of the best albums of 2011 and one of their heaviest in awhile.

Mushok showed off his insane shred skills and acted like he was rejuvenated as he bounced all over and whipped his head back and forth as he played. Bass player, Johnny April and new drummer, Sal Giancarelli made sure your chest was pounding from the deep bass lines being played and gave that heavy sound that Staind is known for.

What separates Staind from other hard rock bands is Aaron Lewis’ way of exposing raw emotions and deep soul searching lyrics that leave the listener either in tears or feeling someone else understand what they are going through. This was in evidence with them playing Fade, Crawl, and Failing - another new song. By this time, the crowd was electrified and was ready to pop but Lewis kept them at the edge as they played So Far Away - I have always loved this song and tonight sounded perfect. This continued with Throw it all Away.

As the guys in the band walked off stage to leave Lewis alone with just his voice and guitar, he played some of the country tinged music off his solo project that included a new song, Red, White and Blue and Country Boy. I will be honest - this was the slow point in the show but it also showcased what an amazing vocalist Lewis is.

As the guys came back out the opening chords to For You, another favorite of mine that I used to blast in my teenage angst. The crowd was feeling it by this time and they opened up a mosh pit. At one point, security had to break up a fight. Never got the point of fighting at a show watching a band you love but there are always some idiots in the crowd. As the crowd got back to enjoying the show, they played Paper Wings. They slowed the crowd down with Outside as everyone moved as one from side to side listening to this classic.

The night ended with Not Again, It’s Been Awhile and fan favorite, Mudshovel. As I looked around, I saw Zach Broderick who is now with Voodoo Corps in the mosh pit rocking out with the rest of the fans. As Staind came out for the encore, Lewis came out with a lit cigarette and thanked the crowd for being so amazing tonight, as the opening guitar chords to hauntingly beautiful Something to Remind You, A hush came upon the crowd as all you could hear was Lewis’ perfect voice as if he was sharing a story of his life.

For me, this was one of the most beautiful moments I have seen in a while at a concert and the lyrics he sings, (Look at my face all the stories it will tell I can’t erase) you can truly see them and feel them.

There are a few shows left on this tour and 2012 looks to be a great year with news of Staind to tour with Godsmack - will be one show you won’t want to miss.

All Photos Provided by Peter Lizano