2020 is keeping metal alive and well kicking it off with a killer tour. KORN and Breaking Benjamin have hit the road for one of this year’s best packages. Decades ago, you would get a headliner and if you were lucky a decent opening band. Today’s tours include multiple headliner worthy bands as well as opening acts. Sure, prices have gone up a bit but for what you get I consider them a bargain. On this evening two of metal’s premier bands would be hitting the stage at the Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) Arena in Manchester, NH.
SNHU Arena is not known to fill many seats when it comes to metal bands. Tonight would be different as it looked like just about all 11,000 plus seats were filled, proof that this is a show not to be missed. As for SNHU Arena itself it’s a great venue providing an arena backdrop but also giving you an intimate feel. No matter where you sit you feel very close to the action. And with its downtown location there are plenty of pubs and restaurants to get lubed up before the true entertainment starts. I highly recommend taking in a show here.
The night would get started with UK rockers Bones UK. Unfortunately, I did not get an opportunity to check them out, but fan reaction would tell me they are a good choice to get things going on this tour. Next time, I guess.
As the lights dimmed it would be time for Breaking Benjamin and Manchester was ready by the sound of the roar of the crowd. Touring in support of their latest record, Ember which by the way is amazing, founding vocalist Ben Burnley and company would hit the stage to deliver a 13-song set list spanning their 6-album catalog. Belting out hits such as “Polyamorous,” “So Cold,” “Blow Me Away,” and my favorite off their latest release “Red Cold River” whipping the crowd into a mosh pit frenzy. Backed by multiple screens, drummer Shaun Foist high on his riser, a great light show and enough flames to make Godzilla jealous the show matched the performance. One for the ages.
Closing out the evening were veteran metal giants KORN, supporting their latest effort The Nothing. Pioneers of the nu metal movement from the early/mid nineties they truly are the original. What more can I say that hasn’t already been said they are one of the best in existence today. Being on the scene for nearly 3 decades these guys show zero sign of slowing down. They seem to get better with age, looking healthier than ever KORN is on track to be around for years to come. Stepping up the stage show they would provide a 16-song audio/visual overload to the near capacity crowd. An extremely well-balanced set sure to please any era KORN fan. Honestly one of the best shows I’ve seen, and the sound was spectacular. This is a tour you definitely don’t want to miss.
Check out KORN and Breaking Benjamin on tour now.
