August 31, 2023 – Stir Cove – Council Bluffs, Iowa

On Thursday night August 31, 2023, Alter Bridge brought their Pawns & Kings Tour to Stir Cove in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and it was awesome!  The weather was perfect, and thousands of fans showed up for a night of amazing music.

MJT, a musical trio out of Long Island, New York, opened the show.  The band is made up of three brothers who all have amazing talent.  MJT consists of David Godfrey on vocals and guitar, Matt Godfrey on Keyboards, and Jordan Godfrey on the drums. This was the perfect way to open the show, and if you have a chance, make sure to check out their latest album, “Mr. Noone.”

Next to the stage was Sevendust, and from the moment the stage lights exploded to life, they unleashed a torrent of relentless energy that electrified the crowd. The band’s signature heavy guitar riffs, pounding drums, and searing vocals pierced through Stir Cove, setting the tone for a night of unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll.

The Georgia-based quintet, fronted by the charismatic Lajon Witherspoon, delivered a performance that left fans exhilarated and craving more.

Witherspoon’s stage presence was captivating, as he effortlessly shifted between melodic harmonies and guttural roars. His powerful and emotive vocals were a driving force behind the band’s performance, and his connection with the audience was palpable.

Guitarists Clint Lowery and John Connolly delivered blistering solos and intricate riffs that showcased their technical prowess. Bassist Vince Hornsby and drummer Morgan Rose held the rhythm down with precision, forming a formidable backbone for Sevendust’s sonic assault.

The setlist was a mix of classic hits like “Denial,” “Angel’s Song,” and “Black,” along with newer tracks from their latest album. Each song was a high-octane burst of energy, and the band’s chemistry on stage was evident as they seamlessly transitioned between songs with little downtime.

As Sevendust closed their set with “Shine,” the crowd was left in a frenzy of adrenaline and applause. It was clear that Sevendust’s music still resonates deeply with their dedicated fanbase, and their set was a testament to their enduring power in the world of hard rock.

After a brief intermission and stage reset, it was time for Alter Bridge!

The band, fronted by the powerhouse vocalist Myles Kennedy and guitar virtuoso Mark Tremonti, delivered a performance that was nothing short of monumental.

From the instant the stage came alive in a blaze of lights and sound, the audience was gripped by the sheer intensity of Alter Bridge’s musical prowess. Myles Kennedy’s voice, a formidable instrument in its own right, soared through the concert cove, resonating with a depth and emotion that sent shivers down spines.

Mark Tremonti, often regarded as one of the finest guitarists of his generation, showcased his remarkable skills with blistering solos and intricate riffs. The chemistry between Kennedy and Tremonti was electric, as they played off each other’s energy to create a sonic tapestry that was both powerful and melodic.

The rhythm section, consisting of bassist Brian Marshall and drummer Scott Phillips, provided the foundation upon which the band’s sonic architecture was built. Their precision and tight-knit performance were the backbone of Alter Bridge’s sound.

The setlist was a carefully crafted blend of their most iconic hits, including “Addicted to Pain,” “Broken Wings,” and “Blackbird,” along with tracks from their latest album that demonstrated the band’s evolution without losing their signature sound. Each song was a symphony of emotions, expertly delivered with a level of passion that could only come from seasoned musicians.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was Myles Kennedy’s acoustic solo performance of “Watch Over You.” The intimate setting, with just Kennedy and his guitar, allowed for a poignant connection with the audience that was both vulnerable and powerful.

As Alter Bridge concluded their set with “Open Your Eyes” and “Metalingus,” the crowd erupted in a frenzy of applause, knowing they had witnessed something truly extraordinary.

The encore, featuring an epic rendition of “Rise Today,” left no doubt that this band has a special place in the hearts of rock enthusiasts.

Alter Bridge remains a steadfast pillar of melodic hard rock. Their set was a masterclass in musicianship, a testament to their enduring talent, and a reminder that rock music can be both powerful and beautiful. If you ever have the chance to witness Alter Bridge live, don’t hesitate—this is a band that delivers a melodic masterpiece of epic proportions.

Sevendust Setlist:

• Face to Face
• Denial
• Crucified
• Karma
• Fence
• Disgrace
• Angel’s Son
• Black
• Everything
• Shine

Alter Bridge Setlist:

• Silver Tongue
• Addicted to Pain
• Sin After Sin
• Broken Wings
• Burn It Down
• Cry of Achilles
• Watch Over You
• In Loving Memory
• Blackbird
• Come to Life
• Fable of the Silent Son
• Isolation
• Open Your Eyes
• Metalingus

Encore:

• Rise Today