Reviewed by: Jenny Stepp

Sevendust, Taproot, Chevelle, Nonpoint, Dope, Ra, Life of Agony, Breaking Point and more!

Date:  Sunday, August 14, 2005

Location:  Willow Island at The Alliant Energy Center, Madison, WI

Overview

It was a beautiful day for an outdoor show -mid to upper 70s, a slight breeze, and mostly sunny skies.  Nested outside of the Alliant Energy Center in an open area with a few trees and ponds, the layout for this event was a bit unique:

  As you can see, each age group was clearly sectioned off which made for some interesting observations during each set.  For example, the Under 21 crowd vastly outnumbered the Over 21.  The bands alternated all day with an event on the Main Stage, followed by a Stage 2 act, then back to the Main Stage, etc.  While this set up was terrific for controlling the age restrictions regarding alcohol consumption, I couldn’t help but feel bad for the Under 21 crowd, having to run back and forth between sections all day if they wanted to view both stages. 

As is typical for large outdoor events, a number of vendors were in attendance - air brushed tattoos, artist merchandise, video games, and a fair number of food services including pizza, subs, and Hooters wings.  By midday, however, all the vendors ran out of water and most types of soda, only leaving Pepsi, Energy Drinks, and beer as options.  For die hard concertgoers, such as myself, who were at the show all day, this made the second half shows very uncomfortable, especially since there were no carry-ins allowed and no reentry.   

If it’s not illegal to run out of water with that many people confined to an area outside in the hot sun for hours, it should be.

Life Of Agony

11:50-12:30 - Main Stage

With more than 10 years experience and 4 albums under their belts, Life of Agony landed the toughest spot of the day - going first, before all the unsigned artists.  Only a couple hundred were in attendance for their performance, but this didn’t deter them from pouring everything they had into it.  The Under 21 side of the stage was nearly full, while the Over 21 area was practically empty.  However, of the little crowd reaction they received, it was mostly from the Over 21 side.  Each member played with the utmost vigor.  Guitarist, Joey Z was bouncing up and down as if the floor was a trampoline.  Drummer Sal Abruscato head banged with such fervor he caused the drum platform to shake. Groovy looking bassist, Alan Robert, with his sleek hat, dipped down and bounced in sync with Joey Z.  Fiery lead singer Keith Caputo writhed with effort.  Caputo attempted to rile up those in attendance with “I know it’s early, but let’s see some action!”  Reactions stayed at a minimum unfortunately, mostly due to lack of attendance at this point.  Graceful as ever, before exiting, Caputo paused to sincerely thank everyone for coming out and to have a great day.  It wasn’t my personal favorite style of rock music (it was a bit classic in nature), but I’d I bet they would be fun again live with a larger crowd.   

Rating: 7/10 

www.lifeofagony.com

 Malice In Wonderland

12:30-1:00 - Stage 2 

Bleak and dark in both appearance and musical nature (along the lines of Kittie), this 6-piece regional LaCrosse, WI band surprisingly drew the first mosh pit of the day (from the Under 21 side).  Bloody dolls decorated the drums and hung from the bass guitar.  Behind the guitarist was a picture of his sister who he explained had been hit and killed by a truck.  I felt a sense of irony because from my vantage point I could see a Weeping Willow tree behind him as he told his heartfelt, angry story about pain and how he chooses to express it in his music.  Infrequently seen in many local Wisconsin bands, this band had two lead singers, one that growled deep and drawn out, cutting like razor blades, while the other was more of a brutal rap like screamer, providing the occasional sung vocals as well.  They looked very comfortable on stage and did an admirable job getting the audience warmed up for the rest of the day.  

Rating: 6.5/10

www.myspace.com/wonderlandmuzik

http://www.garageband.com/artist/13_north

Ra

1:00-1:40 - Main Stage

By this time, well over 1000 people had arrived at the venue.  Fans appeared quite excited, as during Ra’s numerous trips to the region, they’ve built a substantial fan base here.  I wish I could say they didn’t disappoint, but that isn’t entirely true.  Having seen Ra a number of times, I know how amazing they can be live.  They chose excellent, well-recognized songs to perform, however it started out a bit rough.  Guitarist Ben Caroll seemed to be the only one rocking out hardcore for the first tune (and the entire show for that matter).  Despite appearing very animated by the second song, lead singer Sahaj’s notes were sung short, flat, and breathless in a couple of cases.  Thankfully, they eventually woke up.  As each song passed, Sahaj’s voice became stronger and more energy started to radiate from each of them.  I don’t think you could paint a bigger smile on drummer Andy Ryan’s face, which made him most enjoyable to watch.  Also being a newest addition to the band, Ryan appeared to fit in seamlessly, playing tunes from the first album From One as if he’s always been there.  Bassist P.J. Farley supplied clear back up vocals and vivid energy.  Audience participation for the day finally kicked in noticeably with "Fallen Angels", Ra's latest single from their new album Duality.  I believe the show hit a turning point when Sahaj announced "here we go mother f#ckers, time to get Egyptian baby.”  As "Violator" blasted from the speakers, arms pumped from all sides and a mosh pit finally started on the Under 21 side.  Still keeping things lively, Sahaj took a poll asking who was alive in 1980 and who wasn't.  Then he announced, “for those of you not born in 1980, I wrote this song” and then launched into a cover of The Police’s "Every Little Thing She Does is Magic”.  The rest of the show was more like I remember past Ra performances - well sung and tons of fun, leaving you with the urge to pop in one of their CDs right after the show. 

Songs performed included: Rectifier, Only, Fallen Angels, Violator, Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic (The Police cover), Sky, Tell Me, Do You Call My Name?

Rating: 7/10

www.raband.net

Profane

1:40-2:10 - Stage 2

For those of you missing Coal Chamber, this Green Bay, WI act might be one you'd like to catch sometime.  For a minute, I actually thought it was Dez singing.  In a brave move, this band yelled "have fun!" and then dared to cover "Baby Got Back" (Sir Mixalot) with a rock edge.  Surprisingly, it was well received as booties shook on both sides of the audience.  Heavy and throaty, reeling with energy all over the stage, this band was a worthy filler while waiting for Taproot.

Rating: 6/10

Taproot

2:10-2:50 - Main Stage

As soon as the last notes of Profane ended, chants for "Taproot" began.  The show can be summed up with nothing less than EXCELLENT!  This is a band that has been rocking for 7 years, has released 3 CDs on a major label, has appeared on Ozzfest twice, and knows how to entertain.  Easily my favorite performance of the day, Taproot shined.  Lead singer, Steven Richards appeared confident, in complete control, and yet humbled to the audience, being sure after every song to say “thank you”.  His vocal range is simply amazing, carrying seamlessly from fierce screaming, to lucid singing, and even to a touch of rap.  He even ran off the stage, and sang an entire song while running thru the crowd (with a couple of security guards in tow).  From beginning to end, security had their hands full trying to keep the Under 21 side in control.  Body surfers bobbed in the sea of people the entire show.  The Over 21 side, not to be outdone, finally saw their first pit for the day by the 5th song.  Each song was performed beyond par with the CD renditions.  Even if I wasn't a fan of their music, just watching them enjoy themselves on stage was infectious.  One thing that threw me off for a second was that I didn’t see any other microphones on stage but Richards.  Yet, I could definitely hear some intense background harmonies.  Upon closer inspection, drummer Jarrod Montague was the contributor.  I don’t understand how any drummer could sing that clearly while playing with so much heart. Guitarist Mike DeWolf and bassist Philip Lipscomb were both lively, however, they tended to stay to their respective areas on stage, leaving the major entertaining to Richards.  After closing with "Poem", I could've left the day happy right then. 

Songs played included:  Sumtimes, Myself, Calling, Smile, Facepeeler, Birthday, Mine, Poem

Rating: 9/10

www.taprootmusic.com

* NEW TAPROOT ALBUM Blue Sky Research available in record stores NOW!

Hum Machine

2:50-3:20 - Stage 2

This band was brought in as the winner of a contest...and I'd like a recount of the votes please.  Their fresh rock 'n roll style sound was a nice break on stage two from the dreary angry style on that stage earlier, however, it sounded to me that the lead singer would do better to sing country music.  They may have been decent performers, but the music was not persuasive enough to woo the masses eagerly gathering for Dope. 

Rating: 4/10

www.hummachine.com

Dope

3:20-4:00 - Main Stage

According to chitchat bubbling around me, Dope seemed to be the major event for many in attendance.  If the place wasn’t full by Taproot, then it was by Dope.  I overheard a few people around me express that Dope’s message isn’t the greatest, but man are they a lot of fun live - which is so true.  Making a special stop out of their way from a group of Florida shows in support of their new album American Apathy, the trip to Wisconsin for Dope was a success as usual. 

Dope’s live performance fun factor can be broken down into roughly 25% stage appearance and 75% audience participation.  They have the look - from long dreadlocked hair to a spiky Mohawk, thick eye makeup, Hot Topic style attire, and funky shaped guitars, these guys look every bit 100% rock.  They make excellent use of small platforms to adjust their positions, constantly swapping their locations on stage, and making faces at the crowd.  What really seems to make seeing a Dope show the most fun is that even if you’ve never ever heard them, you will still be singing along and gesturing with everyone else.  Choruses tend to be simple, repetitive, and easy to act out.  For example: “F#ck the Police” (pump arm with middle finger up), “Bang, Bang, Bang” (point hands like guns and wave them), “Kill the f#cking enemy (repeat), Burn! Burn! Burn MF...!” (fists pumping) “Die Mother F#cker (MF), Die MF, Die!” (fists, middle fingers, guns or some combination thereof).  If the lyrics alone aren’t controversial enough for you, then just wait until you hear lead singer Edsel Dope’s commentary between sets such as, “Can we all agree that The President is a f#cking moron?”, followed by more “f#ck…, f#ck…, f#ck…”, etc.  This is not a show for the easily offended.  If you took it with a grain of salt and was content to chant, gesture, and bounce along with everyone else, you probably had a great time with Dope. 

Songs performed included: Survive, I’m Back, Burn, You Spin Me ‘Round (Dead or Alive cover), Always, Bitch, Fuck Tha Police, Die MF Die

Rating: 8.5/10

www.dopearmy.com

Before announcing the next act to go on, WJJO DJ Kurt paused to bring his girlfriend Nicole on stage, got down one knee, and proposed.  (She said yes.)  Congrats to both of them!

Mighty Sideshow

4:00-4:30 - Stage 2

Chattanooga, TN based Mighty Sideshow has made a number of appearances in Madison recently including The Dane County Fair.  Their music is very straightforward rock, with gritty edgy vocals you’re bound to love or hate, reminiscent of Bush’s Gavin Rossdale.  Not a bad filler band, it was still hard to attract attention from fans either basking in Dope or awaiting Nonpoint.   

Rating: 5/10

www.mightysideshow.com

Nonpoint

4:30-5:30 - Main Stage 

WJJO brings them here for pretty much every major event.  Nonpoint hosted their last CD release at FYE record store in Madison, WI.  There is a reason that Nonpoint calls Madison, WI their second home.  Upon the opening song, “The Truth”, lead singer Elias Soriano came off stage to stand on a barrier, greeting all his friends in Madison.  He was rewarded with wild cheers, loud singing along, and rabid mosh pits pretty much the entire show, mirroring the band’s intense enthusiasm.  Finally, he couldn’t take it anymore.  Soriano had to ask, “Madison, will you marry me?”  Cheers exploded and a huge grin spread across his face as he replied, “yes, we love you too.” 

I have to give Nonpoint credit for changing up their set list for the event.  With as often as they play in Madison, I would expect to get bored with them because most bands don’t deviate their lists much.  I couldn’t even identify all the songs they played this time, but they were still solid and driving.  An outstanding performance as usual, Nonpoint was a more than worthy add to the line up.

Songs performed included: The Truth, Endure, Broken Bones, Your Signs, Mindtrip, Buscandome (only on their Myspace page), Rabia, What A Day

Rating: 8/10

www.nonpoint.com

Anew Revolution

5:30-6:00 - Stage 2

Two parts Slaves on Dope, one part Unloco = Anew Revolution.  Comprised from former Slaves on Dope bassist Frank "Frankie" Salvaggio and drummer Rob Urbani , plus Unloco’s vocalist/guitarist Joey Duenas, Anew Revolution stormed Stage 2 with a hard rock fury.  Musically speaking, they have some definite potential, but the lead singer sounded much harsher in person than he does on their website recorded songs.  Their spot in the line up for the day was pretty tough – most people were hunting for food and eagerly awaiting Chevelle, so there is little audience reaction to make note of for this act.  Regardless, there were 200 die hards or so up in the front with their fists pumping. 

Rating: 6/10

www.myspace.com/anewrevolution

Chevelle

6:00-7:00 - Main Stage 

By this time in the evening, the water had long since sold out, leaving people with only beer, energy drink, or Pepsi.  If you wanted to watch the show and not die of dehydration, you were pretty much forced to consume some of the above.  Inject a crowd with caffeine, sugar, and/or alcohol and you end up getting a pretty rowdy bunch.  Chevelle was the unfortunate receiver of it.  They didn’t even finish the first song when lead singer Pete Loeffler quickly shut it down and berated the audience with “If you throw one more thing, I’m walking off stage” because someone nearly hit him in the face with a random flying object.  His searing temper was evident as he asked a little later if everyone was having fun because, “don’t make us suffer [in the hot temps] for nothing”.  For the most part, Chevelle used the show to play through their new CD , not taking much time to talk.  It wasn’t until they ripped through more popular singles like “The Red” did the crowd truly come to life for them with moshing, arms pumping, and singing along.  

Songs performed included: Get Some, Send The Pain Below, Comfortable Liar, The Red, The Clincher 

Rating: 6.5/10

www.chevelleinc.com

Breaking Point

7:00-7:30 - Stage 2

Most of the crowd hovered near the main stage to wait for Sevendust.  While I can't blame them, they did miss seeing one of the best bands there.  Windup recording artist Breaking Point jammed through as many songs as they could off of their new album Beautiful Disorder in the short 30 minute headlining Stage 2 spot.  More interestingly to report was that guitarist Justin Rimer appeared to be wearing a cast of some sort on his strumming arm, yet it did not appear to hinder his performance in the slightest.  What amazed me the most, however, was lead singer Brett Erickson’s vocal clarity and strength.  I could understand nearly every word sung or spoken.  He led the stage with a possessed gleam in his eyes, urging the audience to bounce with them.  The other members made it a point to smile, nod, and interact with fans close to the stage, making for a friendly social feeling.  Closing with current single “Show Me A Sign”, they even sparked a slight bit of sing along from the small mass gathered watching them. 

Songs performed included: One of A Kind, Killing With Kindness, How Does It Feel, Had Enough of You, Don’t Let Go, Show Me A Sign

Rating: 8/10 

www.breakingpointmusic.com

Sevendust

7:30-9:00 - Main Stage

When a large crowd hopped up on too much alcohol, sugar, and sunshine comes off their highs, things get pretty quiet.  Unfortunately, I fear this is what happened to Sevendust, at least with the Over 21 audience.  A steady trickle of people left before and during their performance.  I was able to navigate myself to just about any place I wanted to watch the show without having to step on anyone.  I found that when I was standing close to the stage, I couldn’t hear lead singer Lajon Witherspoon’s voice at all.  Sevendust’s music is so bass drum heavy and powerful, it was drowned out.  Moving further away, I could finally hear well, but couldn’t see anything – so there was a trade off depending on what you wanted.  If you wanted the experience, the Under 21 side was the place to be.  Bodies, shoes, hats, clothes – you name it, it went flying through the air wildly.  If you wanted to be close but not killed, then the Over 21 side was the area to be since it was 30% empty.  If you wanted to hear the music, somewhere behind everyone, with the stage nearly out of sight made all the difference.  Being one of the hot and exhausted, I opted for the listening to take in my second Sevendust experience.  That turned out to be mildly disappointing.  Sevendust has a number of widely recognizable songs such as Enemy, Denial, Waffle, and Black. What disappointed me was that instead of performing them, Lajon would stop singing and let the audience do it instead.  I came to hear him sing, not my own off key voice and thousands more like it.  Even with that minor let down, they were a great choice to headline the event.  A well recognized band, with numerous popular songs, they brought a tenacious close to a long day of performances.  

Rating: 7/10

www.sevendust.info

Despite insufficient beverage supplies or a slightly weaker lineup than last year, WJJO’s Band Camp was a worthwhile summer event to take the dullness out of your summer Sunday.  

What did you think of Band Camp? We would love to hear it.  Add your two cents here HERE!