In this day and age of a thousand heavy metal sub-genres, it’s great to see two straight up great rock n’ roll bands. That is exactly what we got at CCNB Amphitheatre in Simpsonville, SC on a wet August evening.
Kicking off the evening were Seattle legends Candlebox. Labeled as their goodbye tour they celebrated the 30th anniversary of their monster debut album by playing it in its entirety. What a treat as there isn’t a filler song on that album. Surrounded by newer members Adam Kury (bass), Brian Quinn (guitar), Island Styles (guitar), and BJ Kerwin (drums)
sole original member and lead vocalist Kevin Martin kicked our asses from the opening track “Don’t You” to the closing notes of “You”. The 11-song setlist lead by the amazing vocal capabilities of Martin had the crowd on their feet the entire time. Just an outstanding frontman that will be sad to see retire at tour’s end. Still an amazing voice supported by a great band. Excellent way to kick-off the evening.
Up next were the Mississippi natives 3 Doors Down. Just like Candlebox, they were celebrating an anniversary of their epic album Away From the Sun which they would deliver to us in its entirety. Taking the stage was long time members Chris Henderson (guitar), Greg Upchurch (drums), Chet Roberts (guitar), Justin Biltonen (bass) and sole original member Brad Arnold handling lead vocals. They would slip in a B-side to kick things off with “Pop Song”, something for the diehard fans. They would then weave their way through the entire Away From the Sun Album mixing up the track order to keep us on our toes. At one point early on, Brad addressed the crowd letting them know that he was struggling a bit on this evening as he was dealing with a sinus infection, but not one to disappoint, he powered through an 18-song setlist that was far from mediocre. If he hadn’t mentioned his medical issue, the packed in crowd would have never known. Great set from another legendary 90’s band.
All I can say is if you have the chance to catch this tour, do not hesitate. With Candlebox calling it quits at its conclusion and 3 Doors Down celebrating Away From the Sun, those are two great reasons not to miss this. If you need another reason then I’ll give you one, this is a great rock n’ roll show!
