Shinedown has one of the most impressive resumes to date in mainstream rock and roll. With over 23 No. 1 rock hits on Billboard’s Top lists and over 10 million records sold, it’s very easy to see how they continue to be a fan favorite for so many years. Last year, Shinedown brought us the “Dance, Kid, Dance” tour, and this year they are running it back with Act II, bringing more energy, more presence, along with fan favorites Coheed and Cambria and From Ashes to New.

While I did have the absolute pleasure of hearing and seeing both From Ashes to New and Coheed and Cambria from the pit for the first three songs, limitations prevented me from seeing either full set, so I can’t give you a complete review of either act. However, what I can say – both Danny Case and Matt Brandy Berry are the definition of metal energy on stage. I had been looking forward to hearing them for years, so even the short bit I did get was wonderful. The way they synchronize on stage is damn near mesmerizing. On the same note, Claudio Sanchez of Coheed and Cambria was exactly as I remembered him: animated, enigmatic, and an absolute menace on the guitar. I really do wish I had been able to see both sets in their entirety.

As for seeing Shinedown, well, that was an experience, to say the least. We’re talking about a group that, on average, spends 8-10 months of the year touring, while also recording new music. True veterans of the stage and road, and with no hesitation in making sure the crowd is both entertained and participating.

From pyrotechnics and fireworks to a really interesting stage design including a disco ball, there was no shortage of things to enjoy with their massive 20+ song set. Normally I try to keep count of how many songs we get, but I lost track this time; it was too easy to do so when you’re having this much fun. I will point out that Shinedown never does the same set twice, so even if I had a set list for you, it would be different than each other stop along the tour.

Vocalist Brent Smith is definitely a standout with this group. Never-ending movement, constant reaction to both bandmates and the crowd, as well as relentless vocal perfection led to this being a show that will stay with me for a long time to come. That’s not to say the other members are less impressive. In fact, we got to all sing happy birthday to drummer Barry Kerch, who was an absolute beast on that kit as well. Guitarist Zack Myers was right on par with Smith on audience interaction, though I would venture to say even more so when it came to calling out and making jokes at the others.

Now, there was one original member missing, though we wish him the best. Bassist Eric Bass had decided to momentarily step away from touring to focus on his mental health, stating that there is no timeline for his return. As the band has been a constant champion for mental health awareness for years, this is a huge reminder that no matter how big or small, you matter too.

On a scale of 1-10, this is definitely up there at a 10. Shinedown has rightfully earned its spot at the top, and I think we can all expect that to remain the case for a very long time to come. Personally, if I get the chance to see them again, either from behind the lens or not, there’s no question about going. I can’t recommend it enough