Photos and review by Nadine Swiger
The Syracuse stage at St Joseph’s Health Amphitheater was set ablaze as the heavyweights of metal – Lamb of God and a reuniting Pantera – converged for a night that would reverberate through the hearts of metalheads for years to come.
Kicking off the sonic onslaught was the American Punk Metal outfit, Child Bite. Their sound, a fusion of dirty, raw aggression and infectious grooves, hit the audience like a sonic sledgehammer. In support of their latest release, “Multicult Split,” available on Bandcamp, Child Bite brought a chaotic intensity that laid the groundwork for the metal storm that was about to unfold. With each riff and drumbeat, they carved their own niche of sonic destruction, setting the stage on fire for what was to follow.
Following suit was the unrelenting force that is Lamb of God. As they took the stage, the crowd was electrified by the opening strains of “Memento Mori,” a metal anthem that instantly set the tone for the night. With a ferocity that matched their reputation, Lamb of God unleashed a barrage of hits that shook the very foundation of the venue. From the searing intensity of “Walk With Me in Hell” to the ominous tones of “Omens,” and the bone-crushing power of “Laid To Rest,” Lamb of God’s set was a masterclass in modern metal performance. Not only did they have an incredible light show, their music was complimented with a pyrotechnical show that emphasized their robust sound. The night reached its apex with the crowd-pleasing “Redneck,” dedicated to the late Vinnie Paul and Dimebag Darrell Abbott, leaving no doubt that Lamb of God remains a force to be reckoned with in the metal world.
However, the pinnacle of the evening was the long-awaited return of Pantera.In honoring the memory of Vinnie Paul and Dimebag Darrell Abbott, the band created an atmosphere that celebrated their legacy. The presence of these fallen legends was undeniable from the moment the lights dimmed, as their silhouettes illuminated the giant screen on both sides of the stage. When the curtain fell, You were greeted with Vinnie’s and Darrell’s faces graced the drum kit, portraying them holding up drinks in a gesture of camaraderie and celebration. It was a poignant reminder of their larger-than-life personas and the indomitable spirit that defined them.
Phil Anselmo, is still a powerhouse, commanding the stage and encouraging the fans into a circle pit. Rex Brown, the backbone of the band, delivered a bass performance that reverberated through the very foundation of the venue. Stepping into Dimebag Darrell’s shoes was none other than Zakk Wylde, known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne and Black Label Society. While the thunderous beats of Vinnie Paul were brought to life by Charlie Benante of Anthrax. Together, they recreated the intensity and power that Pantera was renowned for. With anthems like “Fucking Hostile,” “This is Love,” “I’m Broken,” and the iconic “Cowboys From Hell,” the stage was set ablaze with a ferocity that honored the legacy of Pantera.
A special moment came when a recorded “Cemetery Gates” was played over the PA and old video footage from the earlier years of Pantera played on the screen, focused on Darrell and Vinnie. The emotional weight of their absence was beautifully captured and it transported the audience back to the roots of Pantera in the 1990s.
Joey Belladonna (vocalist of Anthrax) would later joined the band on stage during “Walk,” adding an extra layer of depth to an already unforgettable night.
As the final notes echoed through the venue, the audience was left with a sense of catharsis and reverence for the power of metal music. The night, a testament to the unyielding spirit of metal and the enduring impact of legends like Pantera, Lamb of God, and the rising force of Child Bite, was one that metal fans would treasure for years to come. As the tour continues to blaze its trail, fans across the nation should keep a close watch for this monumental lineup, an experience that brings to life the very essence of metal’s raw power and cathartic release.
PHOTO GALLERY: CHILD BITE
PHOTO GALLERY: LAMB OF GOD
PHOTO GALLERY : PANTERA
