The multi-platinum rockers are still one of music’s hottest tickets

Shinedown [Matt Bishop Photo]

On the 20th anniversary of September 11, Shinedown lived up to their name and served as a light on a day overshadowed by a dark cloud. They put on an absolute spectacle last night at The Met in Philadelphia. The multi-platinum rockers powered through a hit-filled set that fans have been in need of for over a year. With rising star Ayron Jones in tow, it was a rock show of the highest caliber.

Ayron Jones [Matt Bishop Photo]

Ayron Jones is an absolute gem. In an era where “rock stars” seem to be a dying breed, Jones brings some swagger back to the stage. He has solid songs and some serious guitar chops to go with it.

Along with his talented band, Jones kicked of the night in style and most definitely won over some new fans in the process. He performed tracks from his major label debut Child of the State. In honor of 9/11, Jones closed out his set with a Hendrix-like rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

Keep your eye on this guy.

Shinedown [Matt Bishop Photo]

Before Shinedown took the stage, they presented a beautiful tribute to the 20th anniversary of September 11. Images of the American flag and the World Trade Center Towers appeared on the screen. Then, the National Anthem played and the crowd sang along, with peace signs in the air and hands over their hearts.

After than, Slipknot’s “Duality” began blaring through the speakers; a fine tribute to former Slipknot drummer Joey Jordison who passed away in July.

Shinedown [Matt Bishop Photo]

Shinedown opened with their head-banging anthem “Cut The Cord” from their 2015 outing Threat To Survival. From there they went right into “Unity” which rang with echoes from their September 11 tribute just minutes earlier. Then, fans were taken on a quick trip down memory lane with “Fly From The Inside” off the band’s eponymous debut Leave a Whisper. Hopefully in 2023, we’ll see Shinedown play this gem of a record in full to celebrate it’s 20th birthday.

Other highlights from the set included “45,” “Save Me” “Bully,” “Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom), “Enemies, “DEVIL,” “Second Chance,” and their heart-wrenching ballad “I’ll Follow You” which is one of the band’s greatest songwriting achievements.

They closed out the show in perfect fashion with their heaviest hit “Sound of Madness.”

Shinedown are continuing to prove that they are still one of the hottest tickets in town.

Shinedown [Matt Bishop Photo]

Shinedown have been one of rock music’s most prolific acts for almost two decades. With five platinum and gold albums under their belt, Shinedown have become one of the highest-charting acts in music. Their 16 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Songs Chart are the most in Billboard history (that’s right – more than The Beatles).

Their resume is extensive, and it’s backed up by their stellar live performances. With a voice that can be both aggressive and delicate, singer Brent Smith is one of rock’s most dynamic vocalists. He captivates the crowd night in and night out. Any conversation about the greatest frontman in rock history that doesn’t include Brent Smith is an invalid one.

Shinedown [Matt Bishop Photo]

Shinedown’s tour with rolls on through October 9. The Struts, Pop Evil, Theory, Zero 9:36, and Ayron Jones are supporting on select dates. Tickets are on sale now via Shinedown.com.

Shinedown: Live Photo Gallery

Ayron Jones: Live Photo Gallery