The anticipation raged as a mix of seasoned fans and newcomers gathered at Underground Arts, eagerly awaiting the long-awaited return of Stabbing Westward to the Philadelphia stage. As the lights dimmed and the opening of “Ungod” filled the air, the crowd erupted into a roar. Stabbing Westward wasted no time launching into their set, immediately grabbing the audience's attention with their signature blend of industrial rock and haunting melodies.
From the moment lead singer Christopher Hall stepped onto the stage it was clear that this would be a night to remember. His powerful vocals cut through the air like a knife, delivering his raw emotion that resonated with every member of the audience.
The band's performance was nothing short of electrifying, with each member delivering a flawless performance that showcased their musical prowess. Guitarist Cyamak Ashtiani shredded through riffs with precision, while keyboardist Walter Flakus added layers of atmospheric depth to the sound and drummer Bobby Amaro provided a solid foundation, driving the rhythm forward with relentless energy.
One of the highlights of the night was undoubtedly the band's performance of their classic hits, which sent the crowd into a frenzy of excitement. Songs like "Save Yourself" and "Shame" elicited sing-alongs from the audience, who passionately shouted the lyrics back at the stage with intensity.
But it wasn't just the old favorites that captivated the crowd they also treated fans to tracks from their latest album, Chasing Ghosts, demonstrating that their creative fire still burns as brightly as ever. Tracks like "Dead and Gone" and "I Am Nothing" highlighted the band's evolution while staying true to their distinctive sound.
As the final notes of the encore faded away and the lights came up, there was a sense of collective euphoria in the air. For those lucky enough to be in attendance, the Stabbing Westward concert was more than just a night out, it was a journey through the band's storied career, a reminder of the enduring power of their music to inspire and impassion. And as the crowd spilled out into the night it was clear that this show would be a cherished one.
Review and Photography by: Craig Eidell
Set List:
Ungod
Falls Apart
Burn (The Cure cover)
Lies
Ghost
Sometimes It Hurts
I Am Nothing
Wasted
What Do I Have to Do?
Slipping Away
Dead & Gone
So Far Away
Nothing
Inside You
The Thing I Hate
Push
Violent Mood Swings
Save Yourself
Encore:
Waking Up Beside You
Shame
Next Stops on Stabbing Westward’s Tour
APR 25, 2024, The Crucible, Madison, WI
APR 26, 2024, House of Blues, Chicago, IL
APR 27, 2024, Fixation Fest, Detroit, MI
MAY 09, 2024, Welcome to Rockville, Daytona Beach, FL
MAY 10, 2024, Respectable St., West Palm Beach, FL