Yet again, the Vans Warped Tour is the must see North American tour with some fifty plus bands ranging in genres from Hardcore (No Bragging Rights) to Pop/Punk, Metal, and even some 90’s alternative (Reel Big Fish). Just like every year though, there are so many bands to see and not enough time – hint: grab a time schedule for your city and plan wisely. Dressing accordingly doesn’t hurt either…you’ll most likely be running from stage to stage, over black top, and maybe even over a hill or two just catch your favorite artists. Regardless of those minor setbacks, this tour is always a good time and a staple for music enthusiasts.
Opening up the day in Pittsburgh, PA were a couple big names in the industry: Hawthorne Heights and Like Moths to Flames. Speaking of Hawthorne Heights, a unique bit of information was learned after talking to JT Woodruff (guitarist and vocalist of Hawthorne Heights)…First Niagara Pavilion (previously Star Lake Amphitheater) was the site for JT’s first ever concert experience as a spectator and the days act was none other than Boys to Men. As the day flew by bands and fans alike had to endure blistering temperatures which then turned into a short period of rain, followed by the sun coming back out and boosting the humidity to high levels. A good example for dressing accordingly and staying hydrated was front man for The Amity Affliction (Joel Birch), who was rushed to the hospital about a half hour before the bands set. He suffered from a slight heat stroke and the band had to cancel the days show as well as the following tour stop. Within a few hours of being taken to the hospital we were informed by their merch guy that Joel was in stable condition. Thankfully everything was fine for him but it is just a small reminder to everyone that the heat and dehydration is nothing to laugh at, ignorance towards the matter could result in a horrible outcome. Wrapping up the day were some of the most popular acts around, bands from industry veterans like August Burns Red and Sleeping with Sirens, to a band that has been climbing the charts and gaining recognition by everyone in the metal-core scene, Crown the Empire. CTE is signed to Rise Records and have been working their tails off over the last year to promote their first major label release, “The Fallout,” which has been getting lots of attention from every media outlet. The kids in Crown the Empire embody so much passion and energy, and have a bright future ahead of them. Great music and an amazing live set certify them as a must see band, no matter the tour and/or venue.
Hats off to Kevin Lyman (creator of Warped, Mayhem, and Taste of Chaos tours) and all the bands that helped Warped Tour ’13 live up to the reputation it’s acquired over the years. To those out there who live near a city with an upcoming date, make sure you make it…you won’t be disappointed.
-Logan Rendulic, © The Rock Tribune 2013
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