Deep in the corn fields of Normal, Illinois, lies 108 year old Castle Theater, and what better place to host a bass shaking metalcore lineup than in a spooky old venue? I made the two our drive from Chicago on a Wednesday night and found myself with four new artists to add to my everyday list that show no signs of slowing down any time soon.

Colorblind, from Austin, Texas, opened up the night with an unreal performance underscored by their self-described dreamcore showcase. If you’re looking to find your next underground sensual metalcore band, this band brings the same energy as Sleeping With Sirens, Dayseeker, and I See Stars. I absolutely loved their stage presence and the talent they brought to the stage— they truly are finding their spot here in this genre.

California natives Nerv absolutely own the throne and they are well aware of it. Better than ever before, these guys came out here and had utter control of the packed house, sending waves through the entirety of this small town. The only way I can describe their hit “Bad Habits” is truly addicting, and if you check my Airbuds, it absolutely reflects that statement.

Wrapping up the night was headliner Catch Your Breath who have graced us with their presence all the way from Austin, TX. Everything about this performance gave me goosebumps, but first and foremost – I absolutely am a sucker for a good preshow voiceover track that sets the vibe and ambience of the performance. I don’t know who C.Y.B. hired to do theirs, but it absolutely helps maintain the flow and energy of a show, and I think it is just something that keeps the momentum of things moving along really fluently.

When watching Catch Your Breath, you’ll find that they are not short of songs that are absolutely scream-your-heart-out worthy and I am so glad they are getting the spotlight and attention they deserve. I recommend hits “Dial Tone” and “21 Gun Salute” from their 2023 album, Shame On Me.

Overall, I think that the venue did a great job of hosting this show lighting and sound wise, and the crowd was one of those gatherings that was just content to be listening to some great music mid-week, a valuable and unforgettable pick me up that I am grateful to have witnessed. Find Catch Your Breath and friends on tour here.