Ozzfest

There is a direct correlation between the number of half-naked ugly people and the quality of rock music being performed at any given concert. Judging by the crowd gathered at this year’s Ozzfest early in the day, I could tell that it was going to be great.
With very few exceptions, the music coming from the second stage was at least good enough to merit standing out in the scalding, triple-digit heat. The energy was high, the sets were short and happily enough, there was plenty of stuff to keep you occupied during the set changes. You could get your body painted, check out the merch tables, play rigged carnival games or just watch the two aesthetically challenged individuals in front of you swap slobber for 10 minutes.
Depswa was the earliest band to really stand out. Their unusually powerful melodies and tight instrumentation got them a great response from the growing crowd, most notably during “This Time.” Immediately after them came ex-Far guitarist Shaun Lopez’s new band, Revolution Smile. I must say that I was impressed both with how well their music translated into the live arena and with the energy that they brought to the stage. Later, Australian rockers Momento gave a performance that was nothing short of incredible. The frontman had amazing stage presence and finished the show by lifting a kid out of the crowd onto his shoulders as he belted out the end of “Nothing Sacred.” And last but not least, goth-rockers Cradle of Filth closed the small stage with what can only be described as horror movie heavy metal. I wouldn’t buy their music, but I couldn’t stop watching their show, even though the singer kept addressing the crowd in a growling, demonic voice, making me want to throw my shoe at him.
Chevelle was first to take the main stage and I’ve got to say that it is amazing what that band can do with just three members. The crowd responded best to “The Red” and “Send the Pain Below,” though the entire set was very strong and Pete Loeffler’s vocals were dead-on the entire night. After Chevelle came Disturbed. Damn. If you’ve seen them, you know what I mean. They tore the place apart with a thundering double-kick, crushing guitars and nearly album-perfect vocals. It was insane. See them live if you haven’t already. See them again if you have.
Marilyn Manson came next, armed with a massive stage show that included dancing girls, an ever-changing set and a large inflatable Manson head wearing Mickey Mouse ears. Whether you like his music or not, he puts on a great show. “Sweet Dreams” and “mOBSCENE” were among the best of his set. Closing the night was Korn (Ozzy was sick). “Blind” opened up what turned out to be another impressive performance — the crowd sang along to nearly every song and not a person could be seen sitting down anywhere. Ozzy may not have taken the stage, but his presence was definitely felt.

– Dana Hocking
– Photo by Wayne Houchin

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