Fans were in line waiting to experience a night of electrifying rock with guitar virtuoso Nita Strauss, glam rockers Starbenders, Gold Star Blvd and powerhouse vocalist Diamante. Prepare for an unforgettable night of music.
First band of the evening was a local band Gold Star Blvd. The band’s four members, hailing from area communities including Shrewsbury and Gardner, grew up going to church together and, later, staying up late for jam sessions.
Lead singer David Dunne, from West Boylston, said it was almost fated that the band would end up named after one of Worcester’s busiest streets. Gold Star Blvd has been playing shows in Worcester since 2018, starting in bars and basement venues, and Dunne said five years of experience playing small gigs is now paying off.
From the moment the first notes rang out, it was clear that Gold Star Blvd was here to captivate and enthrall. Their unique blend of indie rock and soulful melodies created an electrifying atmosphere that had the crowd dancing and singing along from start to finish. It was a great performance for an incredible band.
The next band of the evening was American rock band from Atlanta, GA Starbenders. They released their self-titled debut EP in 2014 with the lead-off single Touch and quickly followed with the singles Brake, Paper Beats Rock, and Powder.
Prior to the release of their third full length album Take back the night on September 22nd 2023, they released Seven white horses, If you need it, Blood moon, The Game and Sex as singles in 2022 and 2023. The 13 track album also included a cover of Alice Cooper’s Poison. The Game reached #33 of the Rock Charts on Rock Radio.
In February 2024, drummer Emily Moon left. They also announced a US tour with Nita Strauss and Diamante. New drummer Qi Wei made her debut appearance with the band on this tour, and was confirmed as a member.
As the lights dimmed and the first chords of “Blood Moon” resonated through the venue, it was clear that Starbenders meant business. Frontwoman Kimi Shelter emerged commanding the stage with her powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence. From the moment she opened her mouth, the audience was under her spell.
The setlist was a rollercoaster of energy, with each song delivering a punch of adrenaline that had the crowd on their feet from start to finish. Tracks like “Seven White Horses” and “The Game” showcased the band’s ability to seamlessly blend catchy hooks with gritty guitar riffs, while slower, more introspective moments allowed Shelter’s vocals to shine in all their raw emotion. During the song “Sex” there was some song complications so they did not play the song in its entirety.
As the final notes of “If You Need It” rang out through the venue, it was impossible not to feel a sense of exhilaration lingering in the air. Starbenders had delivered a concert that was equal parts spectacle and substance, leaving no doubt that they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock music. If you ever have the chance to catch them live, don’t hesitate – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Next act to perform was a hometwown American Singer Songwriter Diamante. Hailing from Boston, Diamante brought her unique brand of rock ‘n’ roll energy to the forefront, captivating hearts and souls with her powerful vocals and electrifying presence.
From the moment she stepped onto the stage, Diamante commanded attention with her commanding stage presence and fierce charisma. Dressed in black, she exuded confidence and attitude, setting the tone for an unforgettable night of music and mayhem.
Backed by a tight-knit band, Diamante tore through her setlist with a ferocity that left no doubt about her rock credentials. Songs like “Bite Your Kiss” and “Haunted” showcased her vocal range, from hauntingly melodic to downright gritty, while tracks like “American Dream” and “Coming in Hot” had the crowd headbanging with reckless abandon. She also debut her song “1987.” Whether she was belting out anthems of empowerment or sharing intimate moments of vulnerability, Diamante had the crowd hanging onto her every word, united in a shared experience of liberation.
As the final chords of “War Cry” reverberated through the venue, it was clear that Diamante had left her mark on everyone in attendance. With her fearless spirit and undeniable talent, she proved once again that she is a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock music.
In a world where authenticity is often hard to come by, Diamante stands as a beacon of truth, unapologetically embracing her identity and inspiring others to do the same. If you ever have the chance to witness her live performance, don’t hesitate – it’s an experience that will leave you breathless and begging for more.
The final act of the night was none other then American rock musician Nita Strauss. She is currently a touring guitarist for Demi Lovat and Alice Cooper and has a successful career as a solo artist. Strauss was the first female signature artist with Ibanez guitars and is regularly featured on the covers of worldwide print magazines including Guitar World and Guitar Player. She was ranked No. 1 on Guitar World‘s list of “10 Female Guitar Players You Should Know”. With her unparalleled skill and boundless energy, she delivered a performance that was nothing short of awe-inspiring, cementing her status as one of the most electrifying guitarists of our time.
From the moment Strauss stepped into the spotlight, her presence was commanding. Dressed in leather and wielding her signature JIVA guitar, she exuded confidence and determination, ready to take the audience on a sonic journey they wouldn’t soon forget.
Backed by a powerhouse band, Strauss kicked off the night with a blistering rendition of “Summer Storm,” setting the tone for an evening of pure, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll. With lightning-fast fingers and impeccable technique, she tore through solos with precision and finesse, leaving jaws on the floor and hands in the air.
Whether she was shredding through classics like “Pandemonium” or showcasing her softer side on tracks like “The Golden Trail,” her love for music was palpable, infecting everyone in the venue with an undeniable sense of joy and excitement. She included songs like “Digital Bullets,” “Through The Noise,” and “Dead Inside.”
As the final notes of a Pantera cover “Cowboys from Hell” echoed through the arena, it was clear that Nita Strauss had left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance. With her unparalleled talent and infectious energy, she proved once again why she is considered a true guitar virtuoso. If you ever have the chance to witness her live, don’t hesitate – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Nita Strauss
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Diamante
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Starbenders
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