Words and Photos: Dhruv Kumar
Parkway Drive, the Australian metalcore giants, brought their explosive live show to New York City last night at Hammerstein Ballroom, and it was nothing short of a sonic spectacle. The band’s reputation for delivering high-octane performances preceded them, and they did not disappoint.
The night began with an atmosphere charged with anticipation as the venue filled with fans of all ages, adorned in their favorite band merch and sporting the signature Parkway Drive attire. The stage was set with a backdrop that featured their iconic logo, and an eerie silence fell over the crowd as the lights dimmed, signaling the imminent arrival of the band.
As the first notes of “Glitch” ripped through the air, the crowd erupted into a sea of headbanging and moshing. Parkway Drive’s relentless energy was palpable from the very first chord, and frontman Winston McCall’s commanding stage presence had the audience in the palm of his hand. McCall’s signature growls and powerful clean vocals cut through the mix with precision, proving that he is one of the most versatile vocalists in the genre.
The band’s stage setup was a visual feast, with intricate lighting designs and pyrotechnics enhancing the intensity of their music. Fireballs shot into the air during the breakdowns, creating a sensory overload that perfectly complemented the band’s heavy sound. The synchronized light show added depth to each song, creating a mesmerizing visual backdrop to the sonic assault.
Throughout the night, Parkway Drive delivered a well-balanced setlist that spanned their impressive discography. Songs like “Carrion,” “Vice Grip,” and “Bottom Feeder” incited frenzied circle pits and crowd surfers. One of the most memorable moments of the night was during “Crushed,” when the drum riser was spinning in all directions followed by an intense pyrotechnic performance. The sense of unity between the band and their audience was electric, showcasing the deep connection Parkway Drive has with their dedicated fanbase.
As the set neared its end, Parkway Drive closed with “Wild Eyes,” an anthemic track that left everyone in attendance with a feeling of euphoria. The band took their final bow, drenched in sweat and visibly exhausted from pouring their hearts and souls into the performance.
In conclusion, Parkway Drive’s live show in New York City was a masterclass in modern metalcore performance. Their unwavering energy, impressive musicianship, and commitment to their fans made it an unforgettable night for all in attendance. If you ever have the opportunity to witness Parkway Drive in concert, do not hesitate—it’s an experience that will leave you craving more long after the final note has faded.
PARKWAY DRIVE ON TOUR:
WITH THE AMITY AFFLICTION, NORTHLANE, + MAKE THEM SUFFER:
9/9 — Alton, VA — Blue Ridge Rock Festival
9/10 — Atlanta, GA — Coca Cola Roxy
9/12 — Pittsburgh, PA — Stage AE Outdoors
9/13 — Detroit, MI — Masonic
9/15 — Worcester, MA — Palladium Outdoors
9/17 — New York, NY — Hammerstein Ballroom
9/19 — Montreal, QC — Place Bell
9/20 — Toronto, ON — RBC Echo Beach
9/22 — Cleveland, OH — Jacobs Pavilion
9/23 — Louisville, KY — Louder Than Life Festival*
9/24 — Chicago, IL — Radius
9/26 — St. Paul, MN — Myth Live
9/27 — Oshkosh, WI — Oshkosh Arena
9/29 — Denver, CO — Mission Ballroom
9/30 — Albuquerque, NM — The Revel
10/1 — Mesa, AZ — Mesa Amphitheater
10/3 — Salt Lake City, UT — Complex
10/5 — Las Vegas, NV — The Theater at Virgin Hotels
10/6 — Irvine, CA — FivePoint Amphitheatre
10/7 — Sacramento, CA — Aftershock*
*Festival Dates
https://www.facebook.com/parkwaydrive
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