On Sunday, August 4th, the Coney Island Amphitheater hosted Gorillafest, a free music festival hosted by Coney Islandâs own rapper NEMS, captivated thousands of fans. Part of the City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage series, this event was a tribute to the vibrant local culture, bringing together an eclectic mix of artists for a day of unforgettable performances.
Nems
NEMS, renowned for his catchphrases “Don’t Ever Disrespect Me!” and “Bing Bong!”, hosted the festival with charisma and flair. Signed to Goliath Records by Paul Rosenberg, NEMS has proven himself to be more than an internet sensation, showcasing his talents as a formidable rapper and an engaging host.
Tony Touch
The festival kicked off with a dynamic DJ set by the legendary Tony Touch, setting an energetic tone for the day. Following Tony Touch, the podcast “Outside with Gorilla Nems” took the stage, featuring NEMS alongside Pas, Six the Don, Hubert Ramos, and Christina Boykin. Their lively 20-minute session, filled with humor and candid conversation, entertained the audience and provided a glimpse into NEMSâs larger-than-life personality.
Statik Selektah
Next, DJ Statik Selektah took over, delivering an electrifying set and bringing out special guests Termanology and rising female rapper Billy B, who both delivered standout performances. DJ Drewski then kept the momentum going, thrilling the crowd with appearances by Consequence, Juelz Santana, and Grafh.
Nems
As the evening progressed, Scram Jones stepped up as the final DJ of the night, his set building anticipation for the headline act. Scram Jonesâs performance set the perfect stage for NEMS, who performed several of his hits, including the viral anthem “Bing Bong.” The crowd roared with excitement as NEMS delivered a high-energy set, demonstrating why he is a beloved figure in the local music scene.
Pharoahe Monch
Throughout the night, an impressive lineup of hip-hop talent took the stage, each adding their unique touch to the festival. Capone, Cory Gunz, Ron Browz, Justina Valentine, Masta Ace, Smif-N-Wessun, and Pharoahe Monch all made appearances, keeping the audience engaged and energized.
Bun B
The highlight of the night was a surprise performance by Bun B, who brought his southern rap style to the New York crowd, adding an unexpected and thrilling twist to the festival. The grand finale came with the appearance of the legendary Ghostface Killah. As the headliner, Ghostface delivered a powerful and captivating performance, closing out Gorillafest on a high note
Ghostface Killah
Gorillafest was more than just a music festival; it was a celebration of community, culture, and the enduring spirit of Coney Island. Thanks to NEMS, the City Parks Foundation, and SummerStage, fans were treated to an incredible day of free entertainment and iconic performances, cementing Gorillafest as a must-attend event in the heart of Brooklyn.
Lunar Vacation is the musical embodiment of a summer daydream. Hailing from Georgia, this indie rock quintet is made up of five lifelong friends. Their debut album, Inside Every Fig Is a Dead Wasp, was a gentle introduction to their hazy, feel-good vibe. But now, with their upcoming sophomore album Everything Matters, Everything’s Fire, they’re ready to turn up the volume and the feels.
The Show
When Lunar Vacation hit the stage at Brooklyn Steel on August 1, they weren’t just there to warm up the crowd—they were there to make sure everyone was floating on cloud nine before Vacations started their set. Starting with “Set the Stage,” they did just that. The track was like the musical equivalent of opening a window on a perfect summer day, inviting everyone to lean in and soak up the goodness.
As they transitioned into “Cutting Corners,” you could feel the energy in the room amp up. The sharp guitar riffs sliced through the Brooklyn air, locking the band into a groove that had the crowd swaying and grinning. “Unlucky” blended sadness and hope, captivating the audience with its lyrical contrast.
By the time they hit the final notes of “Tom,” the crowd was fully under their spell. The song ended the set with a burst of energy, leaving everyone feeling like they’d shared something truly special.
Lunar Vacation, with sunny tunes and deep lyrics, navigated the stage with confidence. And with Everything Matters, Everything’s Fire on the horizon, it’s clear this band is only just beginning to light up the indie music scene.
Setlist: Set the Stage, Cutting Corners, Unlucky, Monterey, Tom
On August 1, The Black Ties delivered a blast from the past performance at the Fort Wadsworth Outlook in Staten Island, entertaining an audience with their dynamic blend of rock, soul, folk, and even a few Black Ties original songs while the sun sets right in front of the Manhattan skyline.
The evening was getting underway with breathtaking views of the Manhattan HighLine, leaving the crowd in a serene setting. The Black Ties opened their act with a medley of classic rock hits that got them up and dancing right off the bat. With seamless transitions between rock to soul anthems like “Band On The Run” by Paul McCartney to “My Girl” by The Temptations, the energy never dipped from its top.
The Black Ties kept the audience guessing all through the night with their freeform style. With no setlist, it was a breeze from song to song, well-loved classics blended with their own material. Among the highlights were timeless hits done and some from their own catalog. The enthusiasm of the crowd was in the air with cheers and applause that went ringing across the Outlook.
The energy peaked as the show came to a close with a spontaneous “one more song” chant from the audience. The Black Ties responded in kind, driven by a strong and sincere performance of the “Star-Spangled Banner,” effectively closing the evening patriotically and emotionally. The audience joined in to create one of those really special moments of unity and shared experience.
Northern Ireland’s alternative icons Two Door Cinema Club made a stop at Lewiston’s Artpark on July 29 for their North America tour. This band has provided the anthem for teenage youth throughout the years making their fanbase span from an array of ages.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
The indie band Flipturn opened up the night in Artpark with their cinematic sound. This Floridian group are no strangers to the alternative scene. Their slow burn of a rise in stardom is definitely one to watch out for. Their signature guitar riffs and airy vocals pave way for introspective nights. This is especially so with their performance of their hit single, “August.” Flipturn got to play a new song they’ve been working on called, “Juno,” that so many people loved.
Flipturn, Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
The trio that makes up Two Door Cinema Club is Alex Trimble (singer/guitarist/programmer), Sam Halliday (guitarist/singer), and Kevin Baird (bassist/singer). The group met in school and chose to skip university in order to put full focus into their band. Luckily, that worked out for them. They released an EP in 2009 and numerous singles, but nothing gained huge traction until their debut album Tourist History came out in 2010.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
Their album had such a grip on the youth that they were charting numerous Billboard records and being used in soundtracks for films. The way Two Door Cinema Club is able to make the present moment feel nostalgic through their sound is why so many people love them. It’s also why so many people drove out to get a glimpse of their talent on a random Monday night in July.
In summertime feels fashion, Two Door Cinema Club opened with their song, “This Is The Life” off the very renowned album that got them so much traction. They are no strangers to the Buffalo area and their welcome back was legendary. They brought life into the crowd with their humor and electropop sound. Their music so punchy and full of energy it makes just about anyone want to groove to it.
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
The band played an array of their discography making longtime fans so fulfilled. Songs off of their sophomore album Beacon were performed including, “Next Year” and “Sun.” They took the audience through the years of the 2010s not shying away from any of their bold musical decisions. Of course though they had to finish with the track that everyone knows from Two Door Cinema Club, “What You Know.”
Photo Credit: Maddie McCafferty
This July night in Lewiston was one that took everyone down memory lane and had people in their feels. Artpark is the perfect venue for getting that beautiful sunset show and if you haven’t been then you’re missing out. Upcoming shows at Artpark include, Backroads Blue Festival on August 10 and Stray Cats on August 13. Get your tickets here.
Setlist: This Is the Life, I Can Talk, Sleep Alone, Sure Enough, Changing of the Seasons, Next Year, Do You Want It All?, Something Good Can Work, Costume Party, Bad Decisions, Everybody’s Cool, Come Back Home, Handshake, Lucky, Lavender, Are We Ready? (Wreck), The World Is Watching, Eat That Up, It’s Good for You, Undercover Martyn, Cigarettes in the Theatre, Messenger AD (Intro), Sun, What You Know
After postponing four recent shows, Slash’s Serpent Festival is back on track with a stop at Artpark in Lewiston, NY on July 30. The tour celebrating the blues features a rotating support cast with the legendary Keb ‘Mo, ZZ Ward, Robert Randolph sharing the stage on this night.
Following the recent passing of his stepdaughter, Slash postponed four shows in the week leading up to the show in Lewiston, leaving others shows to be determined. After resuming the tour the night before, Slash slithered into Western NY and played a killer mix of 13 songs, many from his 2024 release, Orgy of The Damned.
Forming the S.E.R.P.E.N.T festival, Slash wanted to spread positive vibes through music and charity. “Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality, N’, Tolerance” is the acronym. With charitable causes selected by Slash, a portion of every ticket sale on the tour is donated to the chosen groups.
The former guitarist for Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver has taken on the blues genre and gave the middle finger to any ‘traditional’ blues guidelines, creating his own style for others to emulate and build on. So, for those who showed up for covers of “November Rain,” “Night Train,” or “Patience”, I hope you weren’t too upset.
Following a short set from Randolph, ZZ Ward took control of the stage and the crowd with her classic, raspy blues vocals and left the crowd in awe after her brief set. Setlist included an original “Put the Gun Down” and an immaculate rendition of “Grinning in Your Face” from Son House. Finishing her set, she announces she will meet everyone at the merch tent to say hi, as her supporting cast jams out for another minute or so with classic blues chords
Following Ward’s stellar performance, Keb ‘Mo took his shot with the crowd. After a couple songs, he admits he had been drinking all day and casually continued through his set. Fun, classic, and boisterous are three words that accurately describe the set. Having seen him in 2023, this night’s performance was by far the better of the two. He seemed more at ease and loose, which was perfect for the crowd before him, as the fans of an old 80’s hair band quickly learned why Keb has won multiple Grammy’s.
With an appetite for destruction, Slash arrived on stage around 845 and wasted no time in shredding the stage as the Niagara River rages behind the venue. The black top hat, the aviators, the ripped tank top, and skinny jeans. This is the style that most fans of GN’R will know from the late 80s and 90s. Here we are in 2024 and slash still rocks the same look, with the same hair, and he rips the guitar like no other, playing originals and covers with ease.
While the setlist included a large number of tracks from the newest album, Slash blew created a frenzy as he played a rendition of “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” and continued with T-bone Walker’s “Stormy Monday” and “The Pusher”. Known for jaw dropping solos, Slash did not let the fans down tonight as he went hog wild on “Metal Chesnut” toward the end of the set.
No to be outdone, the supporting cast for Slash proved they were now slouches. Keyboardis/vocalist Teddy Andreadis provided enough sound and entertainment for a show of his own, poking away at the keys and puffing the harmonica, ala John Popper style, all well providing bone chilling vocals throughout the night.
Bassist Johnny Griparic seemed to have the most fun on stage. Solo parts from start to finish, smiling and pointing at fans, and doing his Captain Morgan impressions at stage front.
On the drums, Micheal Jerome sat in back like most drummers and kept pace with every beat and every antic that was going on. Barely breaking a sweat, I might add.
Finally, guitarist Tash Neal provided ample support for Slash, going note for note with one of the greatest guitarists out there. Blistering solos and crisp vocals create a match made in heaven as Neal proves his worth. The onslaught of both smooth and heavy blues are presented flawlessly with this amazing stage of musicians.
Rounding out the night, Slash absolutely crushed a cover of “Stone Free” that would have Jimi dancing in the grave. Following a brief pause, the two-song encore brought back many fans who were already heading the parking lot. “It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry” and “Shake Your Money Maker” completed a night that began some serious rain but finished with some sweltering blues.
The tour continues with another 11 stops and a rotating guest list that includes “Kingfish” Ingram and Samantha Fish.
Slash setlist: Parchman Farm Blues (Bukka White cover), Killing Floor (Howlinâ Wolf cover), Born Under a Bad Sign (Booker T. & the MGâs cover), Oh Well (Fleetwood Mac cover), Big legged woman (Freddie King cover), Awful Dream (Lightning Hopkins cover), Papa Was a Rolling Stone (The Temptations cover), Stormy Monday (T-Bone Walker cover), The Pusher (Hoyt Axton), Metal Chestnut, Crossroads (Robert Johnson cover), Stone Free (The Jimi Hendrix Experience cover) Encore: It Takes a Lot to Laugh, It Takes a Train to Cry (Bob Dylan cover), Shake Your Money Maker (Elmore James cover)
On July 30th, The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, hosted a special night as Jerry Harrison and Adrian Belew brought their “Remain in Light” tour to town. Both were key members of the band Talking Heads, and they delivered a performance that mixed classic hits with fresh energy, thrilling the audience.
Jerry Harrison is best known as the keyboardist and guitarist of Talking Heads. Before joining them in 1977, he was part of The Modern Lovers. His work on the “Remain in Light” album in 1980 helped make him a rock legend. After Talking Heads, he produced music for bands like Live and No Doubt.
Adrian Belew is a talented guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He gained fame for his guitar work with Frank Zappa, David Bowie, and Talking Heads. His unique guitar style was a big part of the “Remain in Light” sessions. Belew also had a successful solo career and was a member of King Crimson, making him one of the most influential guitarists of his time
The show kicked off with a standout performance by Cool, Cool, Cool, who not only served as the opening act but also as the backing band for Harrison and Belew. Their set was a blend of original songs and covers that had the audience buzzing. Highlights included their original hit “Never Noticed,” a vibrant rendition of Little Dragon’s “Hold On,” and energetic takes on The Pretenders’ “Brass in Pocket” and Charlotte Gainsbourgâs “Sylvia Says.” Their diverse set perfectly set the stage for the main event.
The concert at The Paramount was a showcase of Harrison and Belew’s skills. The setlist included Talking Heads classics, making for an unforgettable night. They started with “Psycho Killer,” immediately grabbing the audience’s attention. Harrison and Belew’s chemistry was clear as they played, showing their experience in every note.
“Crosseyed and Painless” and “Houses in Motion” brought the crowd back to the ’80s, with Belew’s guitar adding excitement to the songs. The energy stayed high with “Cities” and “Life During Wartime,” getting the crowd dancing. “The Great Curve” was the centerpiece, with Harrison’s keyboards and Belew’s guitar solos creating a mesmerizing experience. “Once in a Lifetime” was a crowd favorite, with everyone singing along.
“Born Under Punches (The Heat Goes On)” and “Slippery People” kept the momentum going, showing off the band’s tight performance. “I Zimbra,” with its complex rhythms and energy, was another highlight. The night ended with a powerful version of “Take Me to the River,” leaving the audience amazed. As the final notes faded, it was clear that Harrison and Belew had honored the legacy of Talking Heads while bringing it to a new generation.
The “Remain in Light” tour shows the lasting appeal of Talking Heads’ music and the incredible talent of Jerry Harrison and Adrian Belew. Their performance at The Paramount was more than a concert; it was a celebration of a musical legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
Cool Cool Cool Setlist: Never Noticed, Hold On, Made Ya Look, Brass in Pocket, Sylvia Says
Harrison & Belew Setlist: Psycho Killer, Crosseyed and Painless, Houses in Motion, I Zimbra, Bron Under Punches, Cities, Rev It Up, Slippery People, Thela Hun Ginjeet, Life During Wartime, Once in a Lifetime, Take Me To the River, Drugs, The Great Curve
Alice Cooper launched his “Too Close for Comfort” North American headlining tour at the OLG Stage in Niagara Falls, Canada on Tuesday July 30.
It was an unforgettable night that left fans buzzing with excitement. Despite a slight delay in the show’s start, the rock legend wasted no time in proving why he remains a vital force in the world of rock and roll. This was the first time Cooper played this venue in Niagara Falls. The last time he played the area was the fall of 2022 at Sheas in Buffalo.
The moment the lights dimmed, a wave of anticipation swept through the crowd. As the clock ticked past the scheduled start time, murmurs of impatience began to ripple through the audience. However, all was forgiven the instant Alice Cooper stormed the stage and launched into the electrifying opener, “Lock Me Up.” The high-energy performance immediately set the tone for the evening. Cooper’s signature raspy vocals and theatrical stage presence, captivated the audience.
Following the explosive opener, Cooper seamlessly transitioned into “Welcome to the Show,” a fitting anthem for a night that promised rock spectacle at its finest. The band’s tight musicianship and Cooper’s commanding presence turned the venue into a carnival of rock, complete with his trademark macabre flair. The song’s lyrics seemed to invite the audience into Cooper’s world, a blend of horror and rock ‘n’ roll that fans have cherished for decades.
The true highlight of the evening came with the third song, “No More Mr. Nice Guy.” The classic hit had the entire audience singing along, a testament to Cooper’s enduring appeal and the timelessness of his music. As he belted out the chorus, it was clear that Cooper’s voice has lost none of its edge over the years. The performance was infused with a raw energy that transported the audience back to the 1970s, when the song first made its mark on the rock scene.
Throughout the concert, Cooper’s band provided a rock-solid foundation, with blistering guitar solos, pounding drums, and thundering bass lines that kept the energy levels high. The stage production was equally impressive, featuring the elaborate props and dark, theatrical elements that have become synonymous with an Alice Cooper show. The setlist, a mix of classic hits and newer material, was carefully curated to keep fans of all ages engaged and entertained.
The setlist was a thrilling journey through Cooper’s extensive catalog, featuring fan favorites and deep cuts alike. “I’m Eighteen” and “Under My Wheels” kept the momentum going, while “Bed of Nails” and “Billion Dollar Babies” showcased the bandâs prowess. “Hey Stoopid” and “Be My Lover” were delivered with infectious enthusiasm. “Snakebite” and “Feed My Frankenstein” brought a touch of theatrical horror that fans loved.
“Lost in America” and “He’s Back (The Man Behind the Mask)” added to the night’s nostalgia, and the crowd roared during “Poison,” which was followed by a powerful drum solo. “Welcome to My Nightmare” and “Cold Ethyl” maintained the eerie atmosphere, while “The Black Widow” and “Ballad of Dwight Fry” were masterfully performed.
Alice Cooper demonstrated why he remains an iconic figure in the music world. Fans left the OLG Stage in Niagara Falls not just satisfied, but exhilarated, having witnessed a true legend in action. If this show is any indication, the rest of the tour promises to be a wild, unforgettable ride.
Once this headline tour ends later this month, Alice Cooper with join up with Rob Zombie for more shows this summer for the ‘Freaks on Parade’ tour. Alice Cooper’s band consists of Chuck Garric on bass, backing vocals, Ryan Roxie an Nita Strauss on guitars, Tommy Henriksen on guitars, backing vocals, and Glen Sobel on drums. Alice Cooper will be back in New York on September4 in Syracuse.
San Diego’s very own almost monday is an electrifying trio making waves in the alt pop scene. Comprised of the ever-charismatic lead vocalist Dawson Daugherty, guitarist Cole Clisby, and bassist Luke Fabry, the guys have perfected the art of blending surf rock, indie pop, and 80s new wave into a sound that’s as catchy as it is unique.
Since dropping their debut EP don’t say you’re ordinary, almost monday has been on an unstoppable ascent. Their music captures the essence of youthful exuberance, heartbreak, and the rollercoaster of life, all wrapped in upbeat, danceable tunes.
almost monday rocked Madison Square Garden on July 27th as they opened for AJR. Dawson, wearing an “I ❤️ NY” shirt, set a high-energy tone for the night.
The set started off with “is it too late?”, immediately grabbing the crowd’s attention with an upbeat rhythm. Dawson’s boundless energy was on full display as he bounded across the stage, throwing in some impressive martial arts kicks and slices at the climax of each song. The fans couldn’t get enough, cheering louder with each jump.
Following up with “cough drops” and “can’t slow down,” the band kept the momentum going, and the energy in the room only grew. The highlight came during “tidal wave,” when the anthemic chorus had the entire audience singing along, their voices echoing through the legendary arena.
With “sunburn” and “only wanna dance,” the band showcased their talent for crafting feel-good tunes that make you move. The chemistry between Dawson, Cole, and Luke was undeniable. Their playful stage interactions added extra charm to their performance. “sun keeps on shining” had a perfect summer vibe, bringing a touch of their sunny Californian roots to New York City.
Closing with “life goes by,” almost monday left everyone on a high note. The crowd’s response was nothing short of enthusiastic, with cheers and applause ringing out long after the final chord. It was clear that almost monday had won over many new fans that night.
Their dynamic performance, featuring Dawson’s karate kicks and infectious tunes, left everyone smiling and with a new favorite band.
almost monday isn’t just a band to watch; they’re a band you can’t afford to miss.
Setlist: is it too late?, cough drops, can’t slow down, tidal wave, sunburn, only wanna dance, sun keeps on shining, life goes by
It was almost 9pm and the crowd was enraptured by an ecosystem of hundreds of tiny radiant lights sparkling from the Brooklyn Bridge. Yet, as soon as Amber Bain stepped on the stage, it was clear that she was the most incandescent star amongst them all, and she was here to deliver an utterly transcending performance of a lifetime. English synthpop and folktronica artist Amber Mary Bain, professionally under the moniker The Japanese House, performed at her sold-out show on The Rooftop at Pier 17 on July 27 – gloriously guiding her audience through a journey heartache, loneliness, yearning and unfulfilled desires.
Photo by Alisha Goel
The night started with one of her most popular songs “Touching Yourself” from her sophomore album In the End It Always Does. While the guitar and sax in the background make it sound like a fun lightweight pop song, the verses harrowingly grappled with the isolating feeling of not being able to forge a connection with someone no matter how hard you try to.
Photo by Alisha Goel
The set featured artists vocals from artists like Matty Healy from The 1975, Charlie XCX and members from MUNA and Bon Iver, perfectly complementing Bain’s signature layered vocals, experimental guitar riffs and electronic pop instrumentals. Her music fluidly infuses intimately confessional songwriting, potent storytelling and tender vocals, creating a highly nuanced and immersive listening experience.
Photo by Alisha Goel
A perfect example of this was her performance of “Sad to Breathe,” which started out as a gentle instrumental exploration on heartbreak, and then completely mutated into a catchy upbeat pop song. Bain also played “Boyhood,” a song about trying to embrace and find oneself amidst all the chaos, while also leaving the listener contemplating and reflecting on their alternate paths and experiences that brought them to this point in time.
The stage was decorated with colorful orbs, and the lights beautifully contrasted the gorgeous NYC skyline and the East River in the backdrop.
Photo by Alisha Goel
The encore section of the concert featured four songs, including a country acoustic guitar rendition of “Boyhood.” Bain played her latest single “:)” and prefaced it by saying, “It’s about being in love, about being gay. It is my favorite song to play,” which gained a lot of head nods and laughs from the audience.
Photo by Alisha Goel
Before bidding the crowd farewell with fan-favorite “Sunshine Baby,” Bain expressed her gratitude and emotionally declared that this was her favorite show she had ever played. Then the lights dimmed, and the whole venue screamed the lyrics “Sitting in the back seat/ Driving with my sunshine baby” – creating an ethereally cathartic moment of casual magic.
Photo by Alisha Goel
The Japanese House – The Rooftop on Pier 17 – July 27, 2024
Setlist: Touching Yourself, Sad to Breathe, Something Has to Change, Morning Pages, Follow My Girl, Boyhood, Baby goes again, You Seemed So Happy, Over There, Friends, Worms, Chewing Cotton Wool, Saw You In a Dream, Dionne Encore: Still, :), Boyhood(Acoustic Version), Sunshine Baby
Photo by Alisha GoelPhoto by Alisha GoelPhoto by Alisha GoelPhoto by Alisha GoelPhoto by Alisha GoelPhoto by Alisha GoelPhoto by Alisha Goel
Bethel, New York, once the iconic site of the original 1969 Woodstock Festival, was transformed into a haven of nu-metal nostalgia on Friday, July 26th when Limp Bizkit brought their Loserville Tour to Bethel Woods.
Notorious for their unforgettable set at Woodstock ’99, where their intense energy contributed to the festival’s infamous chaos, it took 25 years for Limp Bizkit to successfully rewrite the script. Now older and wiser and out for redemption, the band delivered a high-octane, testosterone-fueled performance that both honored and deviated from their controversial past.
Limp Bizkit performing at Bethel Woods on 7/26/24.
From the moment Fred Durst strutted onto the stage, sporting a backwards Yankees cap and a pinstriped Shohei Ohtani Japanese jersey, the audience—an eclectic mix of die-hard fans from the late ’90s and early 2000s and curious new listeners—erupted in a frenzy. The setlist, a deliberate nod to their greatest hits, had the crowd singing and headbanging along to former chart-toppers like “Nookie,” “Rollin’,” and “My Way.” Along with frontman Durst, all the OG members of Limp Bizkit were present and accounted for in Bethel.
Limp Bizkit’s Sam Rivers performing in Bethel, NY 7/26/24.
Bassist Sam Rivers was looking particularly dapper performing in all white suit and shades, while DJ Lethal and drummer John Otto confidently held things down from the risers in the back. Guitarist Wes Borland, the band’s enigmatic and theatrically dressed master of disguise, was truly a sight to behold. Wearing a gold battle helmet and a pseudo samurai gi, he resembled something of a cross between the Predator and a character straight out of the Warhammer games.
His dark black eyes barley visible as the iconic axman thrashed circles around the stage to songs like “Eat You Alive” and “Hot Dog.” After showing off some tasty Pantera and Metallica licks between songs, Borland would then break into a signature riff almost anyone can play, having a field day on an extended version of “Break Stuff,” the same song that became the scapegoat for the way things spiraled out of control at Woodstock ’99. This time, however, when the song kicked in, the people didn’t kick in nearly as hard. There were no fires set or crowd surfing on plywood the entire night.
Master of Disguise: Wes Borland shows off his latest look on 7/26/24.
The audience itself was a fascinating mix. There were those who had been at Woodstock ’99, now older but still wearing their vintage band tees and reliving the glory days. Alongside them were younger high school-aged fans, some experiencing the raw energy of Limp Bizkit live for the first time. Eavesdropping on a stranger’s conversation, I almost spit my drink out when a guy asked his friend if they’d ever seen Limp Bizkit before and she responded, “No, but I’ve heard a lot about him.” This blend of generations created a unique atmosphere, one where nostalgia met the present day in a powerful collision of sound, emotion and hormones.
Limp Bizkit’s in the house, yall. 7/26/24.
The history of Woodstock 1969 loomed large over the performance. Bethel, the birthplace of the peace and love movement, juxtaposed sharply with the aggressive, rebellious energy that Limp Bizkit embodied. Yet, this contrast seemed to be exactly what the crowd craved—a raw, unfiltered experience that tapped into the cathartic power of music. The resurgence of nu-metal, a genre that blends heavy metal with elements of rap and hip-hop, continues to captivate audiences. Fred Durst, as always, remained a polarizing figure and central to it all. Now in his 50’s and rocking a full silver beard, some see him as the quintessential anti-hero of the nu-metal era, a symbol of defiance and non-conformity.
Others, however, view him as a relic of a dark time in music history, often citing his vulgar and childish lyrics as the bands biggest handicap. Regardless, there is no denying Durst’s ability to command a stage and connect with an audience, even decades into his career. His provocative personality and off-the-cuff remarks kept the crowd at Bethel Woods on their toes all evening long as he clearly still resonates with a massive amount of fans. During the song “Livin’ it Up,” Durst would become one with the people by leaving the stage and performing while walking through the crowd. Later during “Full Nelson,” Durst would invite a bunch of kids up to sing with him and take selfies, a tender moment they will likely never forget.
Fred Durst performing with Limp Bizkit in Bethel, NY 7/26/24.
On the wheels of steel, DJ Lethal had his hands full all night playing samples of songs between songs. Touching on everything from Bon Jovi’s “Livin on a Prayer,” and Creedence Clearwater Revivals’ “Proud Mary” to the Beastie Boys “Fight For Your Right” and Cypress Hill’s “Insane in the Brain,” perhaps his most surprising selections were snippets from Britney Spears “Baby One More Time,” and George Michael’s song “Careless Whisper,” which Fred encouraged everyone to slow dance to.
DJ Lethal had his hands full in Loserville on 7/26/24.
After working their way through “Boiler.” Fred wound pander to the crowd some more, asking “How many people have been in a shitty relationship before and how many are in a shitty one right now? You can’t say it, because you’re with them tonight and your fucking miserable because you had to come to the Limp Bizkit concert with them, I understand.” Without missing a beat, the band would then drop into the song that started it all for the LB, their cover of George Michaels “Faith.” It was the only song played from the band’s 1997 debut album, Three Dollar Bill, Y’all$.
Limp Bizkit performing in Bethel 25 years after their infamous Woodstock ’99 performance 7/26/24.
Introducing its follow-up by saying, “This next song seriously chaps my nads,” the familiar riff of Mission Impossible had the crowd roar with delight when the band kicked into “Take a Look Around.” Getting a bit introspective in the middle of it, Durst would talk to the crowd once again. Using the opportunity to express his opinions on the current political climate, he would go on to suggest that politicians are using technology, cell phones in particular, to turn people against each other.
Declaring that it should always be “us against them” and that he will always be on the side of the people, he thanked everyone for coming out and rocking to some heavy music peacefully. Encouraging people to take a look around and hug their neighbors, Durst seemed genuinely appreciative for the strong turnout and that people still remember who they are. It was a clear sign of maturity for a group who, at one time, were considered the biggest and most juvenile band on the planet.
Limp Bizkit keeps rollin’ in Bethel, NY 7/26/24.
Prior to Limb Bizkit’s headlining set, Loserville kicked off with a diverse bill of opening acts that had a little something for everyone. Highlighted by underground rappers Bones featuring Eddy Baker and Xavier Wulf, their set had some of hardest rhymes and loudest bass I’ve ever heard in person. Before them was a dynamic synthpunk set from the one-man-band known as N8NOFACE. Mesmerizing the early attendees with his bizarre stage presence, guttural screams, and by slamming the microphone into his head to create drum beats, he openly discussed his struggles with crystal meth addiction, saying that for “anyone else who might be struggling, it doesn’t get easier, but it does gets better.”
Thanking Fred Durst from the bottom of his heart for taking him out on this tour, “Already Hate Your Next Boyfriend” was perhaps the song that stuck out most. Adding even more nostalgia to the festivities, actor Corey Feldman (yes that Corey Feldman) kicked off Loserville with a brief set of original music and over the top dance moves. A long-time friend of Durst, the two most recently collaborated on the music video for Feldman’s latest single “The Joke.”
Man of the People: Fred Durst reads the crowd in Bethel, NY 7/26/24.
As the night drew to a close, it was clear that Limp Bizkit’s performance in Bethel was more than just a concert. It was a testament to the enduring legacy of both the band and the historic site. It reminded everyone in attendance of the transformative power of music, capable of bridging gaps between eras, generations, and even differing personal tastes. For one night, Bethel and Limp Bizkit were once again at the center of a musical revolution, proving that while times change, the spirit of rock and rebellion is eternal.
Watch fan footage of Limp Bizkit performing “Faith” on 7/26/24.
Limp Bizkit | July, 26, 2024 | Bethel Woods | Bethel, NY
Setlist: Out of Style, Rollin’ (Air Raid Vehicle), Break Stuff, Hot Dog, Trust? My Generation, Livin’ It Up, My Way, Eat You Alive, Nookie, Full Nelson, Boiler, Faith, Take A Look Around, Break Stuff (Reprise).
