Word and Live Photos: Myglobalmind and Screaming Digital Productions
“The Vibez Tour”, characterized as an evening of acoustic/electric performances and untold stories by the seasoned metallers Godsmack, left an indelible impression on fans, imparting a sense of satisfaction that lingered long after the final notes. The absence of pyrotechnics and the subdued cheers of a more intimate audience provided a refreshing departure from the usual raucous energy synonymous with the band.
The appeal of such tours extends beyond mere nostalgia; it offers artists the chance to explore diverse venues and attract a varied audience. Additionally, it allows fans to revel in songs seldom featured in grandiose productions. Notably, the repertoire included thoughtful covers, familiar yet rendered with a live freshness.
The evening commenced with the introduction of the young and promising songwriter, Bastian Da Cruz, hailing from Denmark. Despite my initial unfamiliarity with him, his creative and thoughtful songwriting quickly earned my appreciation. Godsmack’s decision to showcase emerging talent as an opener reflects their commitment to supporting new voices.
The stage setup, while simpler, exuded a captivating ambiance with two gargoyles flanking the stage and a candlelit arrangement, reminiscent of the mystique found in their iconic ‘Voodoo.’ The use of a video/projector screen added an extra layer, enhancing the experience, especially during the commencement with the Floyd classic ‘Time’ and the subsequent haunting rendition of ‘Voodoo.’
A standout moment arrived with their cover of Led Zeppelin’s ‘No Quarter,’ where Sully showcased his vocal prowess, complemented by the underrated guitar artistry of Tony Rombola. The performance of the moody masterpiece ‘One Rainy Day’ evoked echoes of the legendary Layne Staley and the classic sound of Alice in Chains.
Sully’s piano rendition of the newly premiered ‘Truth’ delivered a deeply personal and heartfelt experience. The emotional resonance in his voice, coupled with the seamless entry of the band, crafted a captivating musical narrative.
As the night progressed, hits like ‘Lighting Up The Sky’ with its addictive chorus and the crowd-favorite ‘Bulletproof’ further heightened the concert’s allure.
Reflecting on my previous encounter with Godsmack in 2018, when they were supported by Shinedown, there was a noticeable improvement. Whether attributed to refined production, song selection, or a resurgence in creativity, the performance exuded substance that had been lacking before. Music’s cyclical nature was evident, with Godsmack successfully adapting to changing times.
In the present, a few years and additional albums later, the Vibez Tour emerged as a distinctive and gratifying experience for both the band and the audience. The musicians’ prowess, coupled with their willingness to explore new avenues, resulted in a flawless presentation. From the sincere interlude talks to the inclusion of cool covers, every element contributed to a perfect evening. Without hesitation, I recommend catching them on the Vibez tour if they venture near your city.”
Tour Dates