Photo of Tim McIlrath of Rise Against by Michael O’Connor
The Rise of the Roach Tour delivered a rock powerhouse lineup that shook the rafters at Saint Louis Music Park. Despite the misty rain, the venue was nearly packed and fully ready to rock. Underoath kicked off their set with relentless motion, as lead singer Spencer Chamberlain was constantly moving with contagious energy. The crowd matched his intensity, headbanging and screaming along in a mosh pit that collided together with metal inspired chaos. “All the Love is Gone” was a highlight that hit both sonically and visually. Red and yellow light bars flared behind the band, casting a fiery glow that mirrored the songs’ heavy metal intensity. Longtime fans were able to hear older favorites like “Writing on the Walls,” and the set closed with a call-and-response moment to the track “Generation No Surrender” that had the crowd shouting in unison. Underoath invited everyone into their chaos and absolutely shredded the entire way.
Rise Against followed with heavy metal riffs and a barrage of pyrotechnics. Their set was pure adrenaline, and the emotional peak came when they launched into “Prayer of the Refugee.” The crowd erupted, feet off the ground and fists in the air. Cryo jets blasted cool fog over the audience during the track “Under the Knife,” only to be replaced moments later with multidirectional flames for “Give it All.” It was a setlist that was loud, melodious, and packed with emotional drive.
Papa Roach brought a different kind of energy. A heavy metal underlying theme for sure, but deeply emotional and human as well. They opened with “Even if it Kills Me,” a track released on their newest three-song release, BRAINDEAD. During “…To Be Loved,” Jacoby Shaddix walked throughout the crowd, even making his way towards the back sections to connect with the audience. The most powerful moment, however, came mid-set, when the music paused and a video on suicide prevention played on the massive LED screen. Shaddix spoke candidly about the mental health crisis in America, and urged individuals to remember that “You are not alone in the dark.” As the lights dimmed and the video faded, he asked everyone to raise their phone flashlight for their track “Leave a Light On” as a tribute to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s “Talk Away the Dark” campaign. Thousands of tiny lights flickered across the venue with a warm white hue. This was a powerful sight to see, and served as a strong symbol of healing and mutual understanding. Each band brought their own unique connection, making the Rise of the Roach Tour truly special. Whether you came to scream, rock out, or experience a show with a truly impactful message, the tour delivered. Proof that even in the chaos, we can find clarity, and even in the dark, we can leave a light on. | Michael O’Connor
