Photos and Review by Jim LaValley
Galleries: Chevelle, Asking Alexandria, Dead Poet Society
The MGM Music Hall at Fenway proved to be the perfect backdrop for Chevelle’s triumphant return to Boston, delivering an evening that showcased both the band’s enduring power and their exciting new chapter. With support from Asking Alexandria and Dead Poet Society, the night was a celebration of heavy music that left the sold-out crowd thoroughly satisfied.
MGM Music Hall at Fenway is truly a gem of a venue. The intimate setting allows for an incredible connection between artist and audience, while the pristine acoustics ensure every note hits with crystal clarity.
Opening act Dead Poet Society proved why they’ve earned their spot on this prestigious tour. The young band’s energy was infectious, and their modern take on alternative rock provided an excellent foundation for the evening. When they jammed “HURT”, the vibe was absolutely infectious and could be felt throughout the venue. I particularly love the version of “HURT” that Dead Poet Society collaborated with the band The Warning, you should check it out.
Next up was Asking Alexandria and they brought their signature intensity to the stage, though the evening featured some intriguing vocal dynamics. Danny Worsnop’s commanding presence was complemented by moments where Paul Bartolome stepped forward, creating an interesting interplay that kept the audience engaged. This back-and-forth dynamic added an unexpected layer to their performance, showcasing the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with their live presentation.
The metalcore veterans delivered a blistering set that perfectly warmed up the crowd for Chevelle’s headlining performance, proving once again why they remain one of the genre’s most compelling live acts to see.
Chevelle’s performance was anchored heavily by material from their latest album “Bright as Blasphemy,” which has been met with widespread critical and fan acclaim since its August release. The new songs translated beautifully to the live setting, with Pete Loeffler’s distinctive vocals soaring over the band’s signature heavy yet melodic soundscapes. Tracks like “Rabbit Hole (Cowards, Pt. 1)” demonstrated the band’s continued evolution while maintaining the atmospheric intensity that has defined their career.
The Chicago trio’s chemistry remains as tight as ever, with Sam Loeffler’s thunderous drumming providing the perfect foundation for the band’s complex arrangements. The setlist expertly balanced fan favorites from their extensive catalog with fresh material, creating a journey through two decades of Chevelle’s musical evolution.
The crowd’s energy was palpable from the opening notes. Long-time Chevelle fans were clearly thrilled to hear the band’s newest material live, with several audience members noting how seamlessly the new songs fit alongside classics like “Send the Pain Below” and “The Red.” The enthusiastic response to “Bright as Blasphemy” tracks confirmed that Chevelle has successfully evolved their sound while retaining everything fans love about the band.
Many concertgoers were overheard praising the album’s production and songwriting, with one fan commenting that “this feels like their strongest work in years.”
This show demonstrated that Chevelle remains at the top of their game more than two decades into their career. “Bright as Blasphemy” has clearly revitalized the band, providing them with fresh material that excites both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The MGM Music Hall at Fenway provided the perfect intimate setting for this celebration of heavy music, creating memories that will last long after the final note faded.
For fans of alternative metal and anyone seeking a reminder of why live music matters, this tour is absolutely essential. Chevelle has proven once again that they are masters of their craft, and “Bright as Blasphemy” marks an exciting new chapter in their already impressive legacy.