Static X, Sevendust, & Dope at Agora Theatre in Cleveland, Ohio on February 22, 2024.
Photos and Review by The Pit Magazine Contributor David Desin Photography
The Agora in Cleveland, Ohio, witnessed a thrilling night on February 22, 2024, as the Machine Killer North America Tour featuring Dope, Sevendust, and Static-X rolled into town.
Kicking off the evening was Dope, a band known for their high-energy performances and unapologetic attitude. Taking to the stage with a roar of guitars and pounding drums, Dope wasted no time in getting the crowd pumped up. Frontman, Edsel Dope commanded the stage with charisma and intensity, delivering blistering vocals that cut through the air like a knife. Hits like “Die MF Die” and “Debonaire” had the crowd moshing and singing along at the top of their lungs. The energy in the room was electric, and Dope set the bar high for the rest of the evening.
Next up was Sevendust, a band with a loyal fanbase and a reputation for delivering powerful live performances. As soon as they took the stage, the crowd erupted into cheers, and the band launched into a set that was nothing short of explosive. With their signature blend of heavy riffs and melodic hooks, Sevendust had the audience in the palm of their hand from start to finish. Tracks like “Denial” and “Black” resonated with fans old and new, while newer songs from their latest album kept the energy levels soaring. Frontman Lajon Witherspoon‘s vocals were on point, soaring effortlessly over the thunderous instrumentation. Sevendust proved once again why they are one of the top respected bands in the metal scene today.
Finally, it was time for the headliners, Static-X, to take the stage. The anticipation reached a fever pitch as the lights dimmed and the intro music began to play. When the band emerged, clad in their trademark masks and industrial attire, the crowd went wild. With their unique blend of industrial metal and catchy hooks, they had the audience eating out of the palm of their hand. Hits like “Cold” and “I’m with Stupid” had the entire venue bouncing in unison, while deeper cuts satisfied longtime fans craving something a little darker. The band’s performance was tight and focused, with each member delivering a masterclass in their respective instrument. Frontman, Xer0 (replacing the late Wayne Static) channeled the spirit of the band’s fallen leader, commanding the stage with a presence that was equal parts commanding and enigmatic.
Throughout the night, the crowd was a sea of movement, with fans moshing, headbanging, and crowd surfing with reckless abandon. The energy in the room was infectious, fueled by the raw power of the music and the undeniable talent of the bands on stage. By the time the final notes faded away and the lights came up, it was clear that Dope, Sevendust, and Static-X had delivered a night to remember. As the crowd spilled out into the streets of Cleveland, the buzz of of the show lingered in the air, a testament to the enduring power of live music and the unbreakable bond between bands and their fans.
Photos by The Pit Magazine photographer David Desin Photography, in Eerie, Pennsylvania. ©2024.
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