Photos by Rebecca Clark | Review by Renee Clark Quade & Rebecca Clark

Daughtry delivered a soul-stirring performance at the sold-out Del Lago Resort & Casino in Waterloo, NY on December 14th, as part of his Adrenaline Gone Ballistic Holiday Tour. His set was a raw, emotional, and heavy-hitting journey that perfectly captured the essence of his latest EP, Shock to the System.

From the moment Daughtry’s band opened with “The Reckoning,” the energy in the room was phenomenal. Daughtry leaned into his heavier rock side, proving he’s not only found his place in the rock world but is thriving in it. Songs like “Shock to the System” and “The Dam” showcased the EP’s themes of transformation and resilience, with Chris Daughtry’s impeccable vocals carrying the weight and emotion behind every lyric. His commanding stage presence left no doubt that he owned that stage. His passion and power radiated in every lyric.

The setlist was a great mix to take the audience on an emotional rollercoaster, balancing the face-melting intensity of newer tracks like “Pieces” and “Nervous” with the heartfelt intimacy of acoustic renditions of “Home,” “September,” and “Waiting for Superman.”

These stripped-down moments were poignant reminders of Daughtry’s ability to connect deeply with his audience, making the show feel personal despite the packed house.

Visually, the lighting design amplified the moody, introspective vibe of the performance, enhancing the artistic intensity of new songs. Daughtry’s new tattoos were a striking extension of his artistic persona, adding to his rock-star aura and complementing the physicality of his performance. His commitment to fitness was evident not just in his physique but in the stamina and energy he maintained throughout the night.

The encore of “The Dam,” “Heavy is the Crown,” and “Artificial” was the perfect way to close out the night, leaving the crowd roaring for more. Daughtry’s live performance of Shock to the System brought its themes of heartbreak, resilience, and transformation to life in an intensely powerful way.

Daughtry’s band was equally impressive, their chemistry on full display as they seamlessly navigated both new material and fan-favorite classics like “It’s Not Over” and “Over You.” The blend of old and new tracks offered something for everyone, but it’s clear the audience was thrilled to experience his heavier rock evolution.

Chris Daughtry may not be the most outwardly outgoing performer, but his immersive approach to performing draws you in, making you feel every note and lyric. He wears his heart on his sleeve, and that vulnerability, paired with his raw talent, makes for an incredible live show.

Daughtry’s sold-out performance at Del Lago was a testament to his growth and evolution as an artist and a celebration of the strength it takes to rebuild after heartache. The crowd left inspired, energized, and begging for more.

This show proved that Daughtry’s rock evolution is only just beginning and we’re here for every moment of it.

Set List:
THE RECKONING
CHANGES ARE COMING
WORLD ON FIRE
CRASHMIR – Crash with Extended bridge; with Led Zeppelin’s “Kashmir”
SEPARATE WAYS
Solo Acoustic:
HOME – Solo Acoustic
SEPTEMBER – Solo Acoustic
WAITING FOR SUPERMAN – Solo Acoustic
SHOCK TO THE SYSTEM
IT’S NOT OVER
NERVOUS
PIECES
OVER YOU
Encore:
THE DAM
HEAVY IS THE CROWN
ARTIFICIAL

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