Loaded: The Greatest Hits Tour Brings Bush, Jerry Cantrell And Candlebox To Hard Rock Atlantic City For A Night Of Hard Hitting Rock Music
The “Loaded: The Greatest Hits Tour” bring together the iconic alternative rock band Bush, Alice in Chains guitarist Jerry Cantrell, and the legendary Candlebox for a monumental tour that celebrated decades of rock music. Bush, led by the charismatic Gavin Rossdale, performed with the energy and intensity that has defined their career since the 1990s. Hits like “Machinehead,” “Glycerine,” and “Comedown” resonated with audiences, as Rossdale’s powerful vocals and the band’s dynamic performances reminded fans why Bush remains a staple of the rock genre. Jerry Cantrell, known for his deep, brooding guitar riffs and haunting voice, delivered a setlist that spanned his solo work and Alice in Chains classics. His presence brought a darker, more introspective energy to the tour, highlighting his significant influence on the grunge and alternative rock scenes. Candlebox, fronted by Kevin Martin, added their own flair with hits like “Far Behind” and “You,” rounding out the tour with a nostalgic yet fresh approach to their sound.
The tour’s stop at Hard Rock Live Atlantic City would no doubt be a memorable one. The venue, known for its intimate yet electrifying atmosphere, provided the perfect setting for these rock legends. The stop here at Hard Rock Live, would prove to be the climax to a tour that celebrated the enduring legacy of these rock titans, leaving fans in Atlantic City with memories of a night that encapsulated the very essence of rock ‘n’ roll.
Candlebox wasted no time lighting the fuse on their performance, and exploding with “Arrow”, which was a powerful opening to their set, immediately drawing the audience into the intensity of the moment. Kevin Martin, the band’s frontman, delivered the lyrics with an emotional depth that echoed the song’s raw, introspective nature. His voice, both gritty and melodic, conveyed the anguish and frustration that “Arrow” encapsulates. Guitarists Brian Quinn and Island Styles worked in perfect harmony, with Quinn’s searing lead riffs cutting through the air while Styles provided a solid rhythm that anchored the song’s driving force. Their interplay created a layered sound that was both aggressive and melodic, capturing the essence of Candlebox’s signature style. Meanwhile, bassist Adam Kury laid down a deep, resonant groove that added weight to the performance, while drummer BJ Kerwin kept the energy high with his precise, thunderous drumming.
“Stand” showcased the band’s ability to blend heavy rock elements with introspective lyrics, a hallmark of Candlebox’s music. Kevin Martin’s commanding stage presence was on full display as he belted out the song’s anthemic chorus, his voice resonating with conviction. Brian Quinn’s guitar work was a standout, delivering a solo that was both technically impressive and emotionally charged, adding a layer of intensity to the performance. Island Styles complemented Quinn’s lead with rhythm guitar that provided a rich, textured backdrop, enhancing the song’s dynamic shifts. Adam Kury’s bass lines were punchy and tight, driving the song forward with relentless energy, while BJ Kerwin’s drumming was precise and powerful, locking in with Kury to create a formidable rhythm section. The band’s synergy was evident, with each member contributing to the song’s explosive energy and emotional depth.
The performance of “What Do You Need” was a masterclass in the band’s ability to create a mood that is both haunting and powerful. Kevin Martin’s vocal delivery was particularly poignant, with his voice rising and falling in a way that perfectly captured the song’s emotional turbulence. Brian Quinn and Island Styles built a wall of sound with their guitars, intertwining melodies and chords that created a sense of tension and release throughout the song. Quinn’s guitar solo was a highlight, cutting through the mix with a raw, expressive tone that underscored the song’s emotional weight. Adam Kury’s bass work was subtle yet impactful, providing a steady foundation that allowed the guitars and vocals to soar. BJ Kerwin’s drumming was dynamic, shifting from restrained, atmospheric beats during the verses to explosive, full-throttle hits in the chorus, driving the song’s momentum. The performance was a testament to Candlebox’s ability to blend intensity with emotion, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
Candlebox’s performance of “Change” was a powerful showcase of the band’s dynamic range and ability to build tension through their music. Kevin Martin’s vocals were front and center, as he delivered the song’s lyrics with a mixture of vulnerability and defiance. His voice, rising from a soft, introspective tone to a full-throated roar, perfectly captured the song’s themes of personal transformation and resilience. Brian Quinn’s guitar work was equally impressive, starting with a slow, brooding riff that gradually built into a crescendo, adding layers of intensity with each passing verse. Island Styles, on rhythm guitar, provided a steady, melodic foundation that enhanced the song’s emotional depth. Adam Kury’s bass was deep and resonant, locking in with BJ Kerwin’s precise drumming to create a solid backbone for the track. The band’s performance of “Change” was a slow burn, with each member contributing to the gradual build-up of energy that culminated in a cathartic, explosive finale.
When Candlebox launched into “Blossom,” the band shifted gears, delivering a performance that was both heavy and hypnotic. Kevin Martin’s vocal performance was raw and impassioned, his voice soaring over the thick, sludgy guitars that characterized the song. Brian Quinn and Island Styles crafted a dense, layered sound with their guitars, weaving together dark, swirling riffs that created a sense of foreboding. Quinn’s lead guitar work was particularly gripping, with a solo that cut through the gloom with a sharp, piercing tone. Adam Kury’s bass lines were deep and menacing, adding a weighty undercurrent to the song’s brooding atmosphere. BJ Kerwin’s drumming was forceful and deliberate, driving the song forward with a steady, pounding rhythm that echoed the intensity of Martin’s vocals. The performance of “Blossom” was a powerful display of the band’s ability to create an immersive, emotionally charged atmosphere that captivated the audience.
The band’s performance of “Cover Me,” featuring Kevin Martin on acoustic guitar, was a highlight of the evening, offering a more intimate and reflective moment amidst the heavier tracks. Martin’s acoustic playing added a delicate, textured layer to the song, complementing his heartfelt vocal delivery. His voice, tender and expressive, conveyed the song’s plea for understanding and support with a raw emotionality that resonated deeply with the audience. Brian Quinn and Island Styles adapted their guitar work to match the acoustic arrangement, providing subtle, melodic accompaniments that enhanced the song’s introspective mood. Adam Kury’s bass was understated, allowing the acoustic guitar and vocals to take center stage while still providing a warm, supportive foundation. BJ Kerwin’s drumming was restrained, using light percussion to add a gentle rhythm that underscored the song’s tender atmosphere. The performance of “Cover Me” was a poignant moment in the set, showcasing Candlebox’s versatility and their ability to connect with the audience on a deeply emotional level.
Candlebox’s performance of “Far Behind,” featuring guest vocalist Rob Poisson, was a standout moment that brought an added layer of emotional intensity to the set. Kevin Martin and Poisson shared vocal duties, creating a powerful duet that resonated deeply with the audience. Martin’s voice, as always, was filled with raw emotion, while Poisson’s contribution added a fresh dynamic, bringing his own unique tone and energy to the song. The two vocalists harmonized beautifully during the chorus, amplifying the song’s themes of loss and remembrance. Brian Quinn’s lead guitar work was particularly moving, his solos soaring with a mix of melancholy and defiance that mirrored the song’s lyrical content. Island Styles on rhythm guitar provided a rich, textured backdrop that complemented the vocal interplay, while Adam Kury’s bass lines were deep and steady, anchoring the song’s emotional weight. BJ Kerwin’s drumming was restrained yet impactful, using cymbal swells and rolling toms to accentuate the song’s shifts in dynamics. The performance of “Far Behind” was a poignant moment, with Poisson’s guest appearance adding a new dimension to an already powerful song.
In contrast, the explosive rendition of “You” was a high-energy affair that showcased Candlebox’s ability to ignite the stage. Kevin Martin delivered the vocals with fierce intensity, his voice cutting through the heavy guitar riffs with a commanding presence. The song’s driving rhythm was propelled by Brian Quinn’s blistering lead guitar, his riffs sharp and aggressive, while Island Styles provided a relentless rhythm that kept the energy at a peak. Adam Kury’s bass was thunderous, adding a muscular, pulsating groove that perfectly complemented BJ Kerwin’s powerhouse drumming. Kerwin’s performance on “You” was nothing short of explosive, with his hard-hitting beats and rapid fills driving the song’s momentum. The entire band fed off the energy of the crowd, with Martin engaging the audience and urging them to sing along to the anthemic chorus. This performance of “You” was a masterclass in how Candlebox can turn up the intensity, delivering a full-throttle rock experience that left the audience exhilarated and craving more.
Jerry Cantrell’s recent performance was nothing short of electrifying, as he delivered a powerful set that showcased both his solo work and classic Alice in Chains material. The show opened with “Psychotic Break,” a dark and brooding track from Cantrell’s Degradation Trip. The atmosphere was immediately tense, with Roy Mayorga’s drumming setting a heavy, relentless pace. Greg Puciato’s vocals were intense and raw, perfectly complementing Cantrell’s gritty guitar riffs. The interplay between Eliot Lorango’s bass and Lola Colette’s haunting keyboard melodies added a layer of depth, making the song feel even more menacing. Zach Throne’s rhythm guitar work was tight, providing a solid foundation that allowed Cantrell to explore his signature lead guitar lines with precision and emotion.
Following the opener, the band launched into “Them Bones,” a fan-favorite from Alice in Chains’ Dirt. The crowd erupted as soon as the iconic opening riff rang out. Greg Puciato channeled the spirit of Layne Staley with his intense vocal delivery, capturing the angst and urgency of the original track while bringing his unique flair. Mayorga’s drumming was thunderous, driving the song forward with relentless energy. Lorango’s bass was particularly prominent here, locking in perfectly with the drums to create a crushing rhythm section. Lola Colette’s keyboards were more subtle in this track, but her atmospheric touches added a modern twist to the classic sound. Zach Throne’s rhythm guitar kept the song grounded, allowing Cantrell to focus on delivering those sharp, piercing lead lines that made the song an instant classic.
The set took a turn with “Atone,” a song from Cantrell’s solo album Brighten. This track showcased a different side of Cantrell’s musicality, with a more melodic and introspective feel. Puciato’s vocals were more restrained, allowing the emotion of the lyrics to shine through. Colette’s keyboards played a more prominent role here, providing a lush backdrop that enhanced the song’s reflective tone. Lorango’s bass was smooth and understated, perfectly complementing the more laid-back vibe of the track. Throne’s rhythm guitar was warm and resonant, creating a rich tapestry of sound that allowed Cantrell’s lead work to soar. Mayorga’s drumming was tasteful and precise, adding just the right amount of punch without overpowering the more delicate elements of the song.
One of the highlights of the night was the live debut of “Vilified,” a brand-new single from Cantrell’s upcoming record I Want Blood. The song was an instant hit with the audience, who responded enthusiastically to its heavy, driving rhythm and dark, ominous lyrics. Puciato delivered a fierce vocal performance, capturing the intensity and aggression of the track. Mayorga’s drumming was explosive, providing a powerful backbone that drove the song forward. Lorango’s bass was deep and rumbling, adding a sense of impending doom to the track. Colette’s keyboards were eerie and atmospheric, creating a haunting soundscape that perfectly matched the song’s dark themes. Throne’s rhythm guitar was heavy and relentless, providing a solid foundation for Cantrell’s blistering lead guitar work. The song’s energy was palpable, and it was clear that “Vilified” would be a standout track on the upcoming album.
The mood shifted again with “Down in a Hole,” one of Alice in Chains’ most hauntingly beautiful songs. Puciato’s vocals were soulful and heartfelt, capturing the melancholy and longing of the lyrics. Colette’s keyboards were ethereal, providing a dreamy backdrop that enhanced the song’s emotional depth. Lorango’s bass was warm and resonant, perfectly complementing the song’s introspective tone. Throne’s rhythm guitar was delicate and understated, allowing Cantrell’s lead work to take center stage. Mayorga’s drumming was subtle and nuanced, adding just the right amount of texture without overpowering the more delicate elements of the song. The overall performance was deeply moving, and it was clear that this song held a special place in both the band’s and the audience’s hearts.
“Got Me Wrong” was next, bringing a more upbeat and energetic vibe to the set. Puciato’s vocals were playful and dynamic, capturing the rebellious spirit of the song. Colette’s keyboards added a bright, shimmering layer to the track, enhancing its catchy melody. Lorango’s bass was tight and punchy, driving the song forward with a sense of urgency. Throne’s rhythm guitar was crisp and lively, providing a solid foundation for Cantrell’s intricate lead work. Mayorga’s drumming was energetic and precise, adding a sense of fun and spontaneity to the performance. The audience was fully engaged, singing along to every word and dancing to the infectious groove of the song.
The next highlight was “Would?” featuring guest vocalist Kevin Martin, who joined Puciato on stage to deliver a powerful duet. Martin’s vocals blended seamlessly with Puciato’s, creating a rich, layered sound that brought a new dimension to the song. Colette’s keyboards were more prominent here, adding a haunting, otherworldly quality to the track. Lorango’s bass was deep and resonant, providing a solid foundation for the song’s heavy groove. Throne’s rhythm guitar was tight and precise, allowing Cantrell to focus on delivering his iconic lead lines with precision and emotion. Mayorga’s drumming was thunderous, driving the song forward with relentless energy. The combination of Martin and Puciato’s vocals created a powerful dynamic that added a fresh twist to the classic track.
The set concluded with a powerful one-two punch of “Brighten” and “Rooster.” “Brighten” was a fitting penultimate song, showcasing Cantrell’s more introspective and melodic side. Puciato’s vocals were warm and soulful, capturing the hopeful and uplifting tone of the song. Colette’s keyboards were lush and vibrant, adding a sense of brightness and optimism to the track. Lorango’s bass was smooth and understated, perfectly complementing the song’s laid-back vibe. Throne’s rhythm guitar was rich and resonant, creating a warm sonic bed for Cantrell’s lead work. Mayorga’s drumming was tasteful and precise, adding just the right amount of punch to the track.
The final song, “Rooster,” was a cathartic release of energy, with the entire band delivering a powerful and emotionally charged performance. Puciato’s vocals were intense and raw, capturing the defiance and resilience of the lyrics. Colette’s keyboards were haunting and atmospheric, adding a sense of tension to the track. Lorango’s bass was deep and rumbling, providing a solid foundation for the song’s heavy groove. Throne’s rhythm guitar was tight and precise, allowing Cantrell to focus on delivering his iconic lead lines with precision and emotion. Mayorga’s drumming was explosive, driving the song forward with relentless energy. The audience was fully immersed in the performance, singing along to every word and feeling every note. The band left the stage to a thunderous ovation, having delivered a performance that was both powerful and deeply moving.
And closing out this star-studded is none other than Bush, to deliver a tour de force of energy, emotion, and pure rock power, beginning with their explosive hit “Everything Zen.” Gavin Rossdale, the band’s iconic frontman, commanded the stage with his intense presence, his voice cutting through the air with a blend of rawness and melody. His guitar work was sharp and aggressive, setting the tone for the evening. Guitarist Chris Traynor delivered a blistering performance, his riffs adding depth and complexity to the song’s driving rhythm. Corey Britz on bass provided a deep, pulsating groove that underpinned the track, while drummer Nik Hughes kept the momentum high with his powerful, precise drumming. The band’s chemistry was electric, as they delivered “Everything Zen” with the same intensity that made it a staple of the 90s alternative rock scene, igniting the crowd from the very first note.
Following this powerful opener, Bush launched into “Machinehead,” a track that perfectly showcased the band’s ability to blend melody with hard-hitting rock. Rossdale’s vocals were commanding, delivering the song’s anthemic chorus with a raw energy that had the crowd singing along. His guitar work was equally impressive, with the song’s iconic riff driving the track forward. Chris Traynor’s guitar solo was a highlight, cutting through the mix with a fierce intensity that elevated the performance. Corey Britz’s bass lines were thunderous, providing a solid foundation that anchored the song’s relentless pace, while Nik Hughes’s drumming was explosive, his hard-hitting beats propelling the song’s driving rhythm. The band’s performance of “Machinehead” was a high-energy affair that had the crowd on their feet, embodying the spirit of Bush’s signature sound.
“The Chemicals Between Us” brought a slightly more electronic vibe to the set, showcasing the band’s versatility. Rossdale’s vocals were smooth yet powerful, delivering the song’s introspective lyrics with a sense of urgency. His guitar playing was more restrained, allowing the song’s electronic elements to shine through. Chris Traynor provided atmospheric guitar layers that complemented the song’s more modern sound, while Corey Britz’s bass lines were tight and rhythmic, driving the track’s pulsating beat. Nik Hughes’s drumming was dynamic, shifting between electronic beats and live percussion with ease, creating a textured soundscape that added depth to the performance. The band’s rendition of “The Chemicals Between Us” was a testament to their ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their rock roots, captivating the audience with its blend of melody and intensity.
Bush then shifted gears with “Greedy Fly,” a track that allowed the band to delve into darker, more brooding territory. Rossdale’s vocals were haunting, delivering the song’s cryptic lyrics with a sense of menace. His guitar work was equally moody, with the song’s heavy, grungy riff creating a dense, atmospheric sound. Chris Traynor’s lead guitar added layers of dissonance, enhancing the song’s eerie vibe, while Corey Britz’s bass lines were deep and ominous, anchoring the track with a menacing groove. Nik Hughes’s drumming was precise and powerful, driving the song’s slow, grinding rhythm with a steady hand. The performance of “Greedy Fly” was a highlight of the night, with the band’s ability to create a dark, immersive atmosphere leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
“The Sound of Winter” brought a more melodic touch to the set, showcasing Rossdale’s ability to deliver heartfelt lyrics with sincerity and emotion. His vocals were rich and expressive, conveying the song’s themes of loss and redemption with a sense of vulnerability. His guitar playing was equally emotive, with clean, ringing chords that added to the song’s melancholic yet hopeful tone. Chris Traynor provided subtle, melodic guitar lines that complemented Rossdale’s performance, while Corey Britz’s bass was warm and supportive, adding depth to the track’s lush sound. Nik Hughes’s drumming was restrained yet impactful, using light touches and soft cymbal work to create a delicate, nuanced rhythm. The band’s performance of “The Sound of Winter” was a moment of introspection, offering a glimpse into the more emotional side of Bush’s music.
One of the most memorable moments of the night came when Rossdale performed “Swallowed” solo at center stage. Stripped down to just his voice and an acoustic guitar, the performance was intimate and raw, allowing Rossdale’s vocal delivery to take center stage. His voice was filled with emotion, capturing the song’s themes of regret and longing with a poignant sincerity. The simplicity of the acoustic arrangement brought a new depth to the song, highlighting Rossdale’s songwriting skills and his ability to connect with the audience on a deeply personal level. The crowd was mesmerized, hanging on every word as Rossdale delivered one of the most emotionally charged performances of the evening.
Rossdale continued to engage with the audience during “Flowers on a Grave,” as he walked through the crowd while singing. His connection with the fans was palpable, as he moved through the sea of people, singing the song’s lyrics with an intensity that drew everyone in. The rest of the band kept the energy high on stage, with Chris Traynor’s guitar work driving the song’s anthemic chorus, while Corey Britz’s bass and Nik Hughes’s drumming provided a powerful, rhythmic foundation. The performance was a perfect blend of intimacy and energy, with Rossdale’s interaction with the crowd adding an element of spontaneity and excitement to the show.
The main set closed with “Little Things,” a song that encapsulated the raw power and emotional depth of Bush’s music. Rossdale’s vocals were fierce and passionate, delivering the song’s lyrics with a sense of urgency and defiance. His guitar work was equally intense, with the song’s driving riff propelling the track forward. Chris Traynor’s lead guitar added a searing edge to the song, while Corey Britz’s bass lines were deep and resonant, providing a solid groove that anchored the track. Nik Hughes’s drumming was explosive, driving the song’s relentless pace with powerful beats and rapid fills. The performance of “Little Things” was a fitting end to the main set, leaving the audience energized and ready for more.
Bush returned for a three-song encore, beginning with “More Than Machines,” a new track that showcased the band’s continued evolution. The song’s driving rhythm and powerful chorus were a perfect fit for the live setting, with Rossdale delivering the vocals with a fierce intensity. Chris Traynor’s guitar work was sharp and precise, while Corey Britz and Nik Hughes provided a tight, rhythmic foundation. The band then surprised the crowd with a hard-hitting version of The Beatles’ “Come Together,” transforming the classic song into a powerful rock anthem. Rossdale’s vocals were gritty and raw, while the band’s heavy instrumentation gave the song a new, modern edge. The encore continued with “Glycerine,” performed solo by Rossdale at center stage. The stripped-down arrangement allowed his voice and guitar to shine, creating a moment of intimacy and connection with the audience. The night closed with “Comedown,” a song that brought the evening to a powerful conclusion. The entire band was firing on all cylinders, delivering a performance that was both intense and emotional, leaving the audience with a lasting impression of Bush’s enduring power and influence in the world of rock music.
