Fans were lined around The House of Blues ready for an unforgettable night of raw energy and iconic rock legend as Jerry Cantrell and Filter bring their legendary sounds to the stage!
First band to hit the stage was an American rock band formed in 1993 in Cleveland, Ohio, by singer Richard Patrick, along with guitarist and programmer Brian Liesegang Filter. The band was formed when Patrick desired to start his own band after leaving Nine Inch Nails as their touring guitarist. Their debut album, Short Bus (1995) received platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), supported by the single “Hey Man Nice Shot.” After the album, the band would go through the first of many lineup changes, leaving Patrick as the only consistent member across all releases.
As the lights dimmed and the iconic intro to “You Walk Away” began reverberating through the venue, the crowd erupted into a frenzy. Richard Patrick’s unmistakable voice took over the mic, and in that moment, the audience was transported into the chaotic world of Filter’s industrial rock. The distorted guitars and pulsing electronic beats hit with relentless force, and it was immediately clear this wasn’t going to be a typical rock show—it was an assault on the senses.
Filter’s setlist was a perfect blend of classic hits and newer material. From fan favorites like “Take a Picture” to the more recent “Jurassitol,” the band made sure to hit all the right notes. The crowd went wild for “(Can’t You) Trip Like I Do,” a throwback to their collaboration with The Crystal Method that had everyone singing along. But it wasn’t just nostalgia that carried the night; tracks from their latest albums held their own and felt just as vital in the live setting.
The crowd was electric, a mix of long-time fans and newer converts who were all equally engaged. There wasn’t a still body in the room—everyone was dancing, headbanging, or fist-pumping along to the music. Filter’s fans have always been known for their passion, and this show proved that they haven’t lost any of their fervor. The call-and-response moments were especially powerful, with the crowd amplifying Patrick’s every word, making the concert feel like a shared experience.
The final act of the evening was an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He is best known as the founder, lead guitarist, co-lead vocalist, and main songwriter of the rock band Alice in Chains Jerry Cantrell. Cantrell started to sing lead vocals on Alice in Chains’ 1992 EP Sap. After Staley’s death in 2002, Cantrell took the role of Alice in Chains’ lead singer on most of the songs from the band’s post-Staley albums, Black Gives Way to Blue (2009), The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here (2013), and Rainier Fog (2018), with DuVall harmonizing with him in the new songs and singing Staley’s vocals in the old songs in live concerts.
For decades, Jerry Cantrell has been the driving force behind Alice in Chains’ distinctive sound, blending grunge, metal, and haunting melodies with a unique emotional depth. But when he takes the stage on his own, it becomes clear: Jerry Cantrell is more than just the architect of some of rock’s most iconic riffs—he’s a masterful solo artist whose live performances leave a lasting impression.
When Jerry Cantrell and his band walked onto the stage, the room erupted with applause. The man himself—dressed in simple black and exuding a quiet, unassuming confidence—took his place at the front. But make no mistake, Cantrell’s reserved demeanor only makes his musical prowess more compelling. His performance was filled with the kind of raw emotion and grit that has defined his career, but there was also an introspective, almost soulful quality to the night.
Cantrell’s voice, though distinctively gravelly, carried a weight of experience and melancholy, making every note feel deeply personal. As he navigated through his set, it was clear he wasn’t just going through the motions; this was an artist offering a window into his soul.
The setlist was a beautiful blend of Cantrell’s solo work and his storied career with Alice in Chains. Opening with the infectious riff of “Psychotic Break” the crowd was immediately hooked. Cantrell’s signature sound was alive and well, with his guitar work cutting through the air like a razor. It’s hard to overstate just how tight his band was, each member complementing Cantrell’s playing with precision.
For fans of Alice in Chains, the performance of “Down In The Hole.” was a standout moment. The iconic riff sounded even more massive in the live setting, and Cantrell’s voice, full of pain and resolve, gave the song a new level of depth. Similarly, “Rooster,” another classic from Dirt, was a highlight of the night. The way Cantrell infused it with personal meaning, delivering it with palpable emotion, left the crowd in awe.
While the set leaned heavily on his Alice in Chains catalog, Cantrell’s solo tracks like “Atone” and “Off The Rails.00” stood strong on their own, showing off his versatility and evolution as an artist. His solo work has always been a bit more introspective, and in a live setting, the quieter moments—like the tender “A Job to Do”—felt hauntingly intimate.
The crowd was fully immersed in the experience, hanging on every note. There were moments of collective reflection, especially during the quieter, more somber tracks. The audience, united in a shared connection, seemed to understand exactly what he was conveying. It was one of those rare, emotional concert moments that you don’t forget.
The energy throughout the show was consistently high. The crowd cheered after every riff, sang along at the top of their lungs, and gave Cantrell the kind of appreciation only a true fanbase can provide. It felt like a celebration, not just of his music, but of his career and the mark he’s left on rock.
Jerry Cantrell’s live show was an unforgettable experience. It was a night that celebrated his entire career, from his time with Alice in Chains to his solo efforts. It wasn’t just about the hits; it was about the depth of the music and the stories Cantrell shared through his guitar and voice. It was a reminder that his legacy is far more than just the riffs and hooks that defined a genre—it’s about the soul he pours into every note.
For anyone who has followed Cantrell’s journey, this show was a masterclass in songwriting, guitar playing, and emotional expression. If you ever have the chance to see him live, don’t hesitate. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Jerry Cantrell
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