Flyleaf in Chicago at the House of Blues
On a rainy Sunday evening, the House of Blues hosted Stars in Stereo, Drowning Pool and Flyleaf. Unfortunately, HOB posted a start time of 6:30 but ended up starting at 5:30 which left many fans, including myself, missing Stars in Stereo. Talking with the fans, I was told they put on a great set and with the release of their EP, which features the hit single, Broken. This will be a band on my radar for next time in the area, so be sure you head out early to catch this fresh new band. Drowning Pool came on next to give a strong performance, leaving the crowd ready for Flyleaf (Due to photo restrictions this part of the show was not reviewed). With a quick change-over, the curtains opened and out walked Flyleaf to a huge cheer.
After losing singer Lacey Sturm, they brought on former singer for Vedera Kristen May to take over vocal duties. May came on stage and commanded it from the start, with her pixie looks and strong vocals that only lacked in the screams that Lacey was able to provide; she proved capable of
taking the reins. Opening with Again, Call You Out, New Horizons - both songs off the new album New Horizons. The crowd roared when they started Cassie, which brought a smile to May’s face and the rest of the band. Bass player, Pat Seals needs to get a commercial for the 5 hour energy, drink with all the jumping and energy he gives on stage. Guitar players, Sameer Bhattacharya and Jared Hartmann complimented each other as they ripped into solos. Bhattacharya is another whirlwind on stage, as he throws his small frame around. James Culpepper provided a solid background of drums that made each song stand out. Playing for a solid hour plus, they gave the fans everything you could ask for, with new songs and old songs off the last 3 albums and ending the night with All Around Me and I’m So Sick.
The last few months, there has been a lot of turnover in bands that include Drowning Pool and Three Days Grace, the latter proving you can still survive as long as you’re producing great live shows. While the old chapter of Flyleaf is over, Kristen May has proven this new chapter sees a bright future. Be sure to check out this tour that runs till the end of March as well as their website for updated news.
http://site.flyleafmusic.com
Photos & Review by Peter Lizano
