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W.A.S.P., ARMORED SAINT In Salt Lake City, UT With Photos!

By Breezy Bird, Idaho Contributor
Thursday, November 7, 2024 @ 12:14 AM

The 'Album ONE Alive' Tour Storms The Depot On November 4th

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All Photos By Breezy Bird Photography

What's better on a chilly November Monday than cozying up with some football with hopes that your least favorite team will lose? Well, when the legendary W.A.S.P. Album ONE Alive tour storms into town, even Monday Night Football fades into the background. Last night (November 4, 2024), The Depot in Salt Lake City transformed into a rock 'n' roll sanctuary as diehard fans gathered to celebrate the iconic 40th anniversary of W.A.S.P.'s groundbreaking debut album. Hearing every track back-to-back from that legendary album live was a rare treat-a night that true rock devotees wouldn't dare let slip by.

The night kicked off with ARMORED SAINT, who, despite the small stage, brought their full-throttle energy to the packed house. Vocalist John Bush found himself squished up front with hardly any room to stand, but he didn't let the tight space hold him back. Throughout the set, he navigated around Gonzo Sandoval's drum kit with ease, often popping up behind it to belt out verses with his notable fiery intensity. Meanwhile, bassist Joey Vera-who, let's be honest, shows no signs of slowing down at 61-anchored the left side alongside lead guitarist Phil Sandoval. Rhythm guitarist Jeff Duncan claimed the stage's roomier side for himself, letting each member carve out their own slice of space and energy in an unforgettable performance.

With nearly the same lineup since 1990, ARMORED SAINT has a synergy that's rare even among long-established bands. Their stage presence was magnetic, and their musicianship flawless-every note perfectly in tune, with John Bush's voice sounding like it was straight off a studio recording. Unlike many openers who struggle to command the stage or deliver powerful sound, ARMORED SAINT held the crowd in the palm of their hands. By the end of their set, I was seriously questioning if my ears could handle an even louder headliner!

The set kicked off with a bang as "End of The Attention Span" ignited the crowd, getting everyone up and moving right from the first riff. They rolled through a balanced mix of new and classic songs, but the real highlight for me was "Last Train Home". Standing in the pit, watching my favorite ARMORED SAINT song come to life just a few feet away was a memory I won't soon forget.

In a surprising twist-or perhaps just eager for a bit more elbow room-John Bush made his way to the balcony mid-set to belt out "Can U Deliver" from high above the crowd. It was a masterstroke, bringing him face-to-face with fans who couldn't believe they suddenly had him at arm's reach. Lit by a lone spotlight, John delivered each line to perfection, pausing now and then to exchange fist bumps and grins with the lucky fans surrounding him. The energy shot through the roof, and this unforgettable moment showcased the undeniable connection ARMORED SAINT has with their audience, proving they're a band that doesn't just play for the crowd-they play with them. As ARMORED SAINT's set came to a close, it was one of those rare moments where the crowd was left yearning for more, wishing the opener could keep playing just a little longer. The energy was still raging, and fans were clearly not ready to let them go-proof of the unforgettable impact the band had made in just a single set.

SETLIST

"End of the Attention Span"

"Raising Fear"

"Last Train Home"

"March of the Saint"

"Left Hook"

"Standing on the Shoulders of Giants"

"Win Hands Down"

"Can U Deliver"

"Reign of Fire"

As the crew transformed the stage, fans took the chance to grab a drink and gear up for W.A.S.P.'s entrance. Normally, this intermission would also be prime time to hit the merch table and score some exclusive W.A.S.P. gear. But unfortunately, there was no merchandise to be found. Instead of the usual array of shirts, bandanas, and keepsakes, a small sign hung where the display should've been, explaining that due to overwhelming demand the previous night, there was nothing left to sell. Instead, a QR code on the sign directed fans to an online shop, but let's be honest-there's something irreplaceable about buying a tour shirt at the venue and taking it home the same night. It's a tradition, and it just doesn't feel right to wait for its arrival a few weeks later. A definite misstep on their part; the crowd was buzzing with excitement, and definitely a missed opportunity to make the night completely epic.

Before the band took the stage, one thing stood out-Elvis, Blackie Lawless' iconic mic stand, was front and center. After Blackie's recent back surgery, I wasn't sure if Elvis would make an appearance, but seeing it there filled me with excitement. As the lights dimmed, a montage of W.A.S.P. hits echoed overhead, building anticipation in the crowd. Then it happened! The band members stepped onto the stage one by one, culminating in the entrance of the legendary Blackie Lawless himself. He looked like a blast from the past, with his trademark voluminous black hair streaked with white, embodying the spirit of W.A.S.P. that fans have loved for decades. The energy in the room surged as the crowd erupted in cheers, ready to witness a night of heavy metal history.

Blackie took his place behind Elvis, and from my position in the pit, I was ready to soak it all in as they opened with "I Wanna Be Somebody" Typically a closing anthem, hearing it kick off the show was a thrilling twist, especially since they were performing the album in chronological order. This meant "L.O.V.E. Machine" was up next, and what a treat it was to be right up front for two of W.A.S.P.'s biggest hits! The energy was palpable, with the crowd roaring along, and I felt like I was right in the heart of rock history as those unforgettable tracks filled the air. For a brief moment, Blackie channeled the classic W.A.S.P. energy, swinging back and forth on Elvis like the good old days. It was a nostalgic nod to the band's iconic stage presence, and the crowd went wild as he rocked out with the same intensity and flair that made him a legend. Watching him move with such raw energy was a reminder of why W.A.S.P. has always been more than just a band-it's a full-throttle, in-your-face rock experience.

At one point, I looked up from the pit to the balcony and spotted my ever-supportive setlist documentarian, glowing with excitement. Seeing him light up, especially as a devoted W.A.S.P. fan, reminded me exactly why we go to concerts. Moments like these bring us closer together, turning fleeting experiences into cherished memories. It's part of why I started reviewing and photographing shows-to capture these moments and preserve them, making them a lasting piece of history.

While Blackie stole the spotlight, the rest of the band lit up the stage with fierce intensity. Guitarists Doug Blair and Mike Duda unleashed their energy, leaning into the crowd and feeding off the fans' excitement. From the back of back of the stage Aquiles Priester attacked his massive drum kit with relentless power and precision. Together, they turned up the heat, injecting a raw, electrifying energy that pushed the show into overdrive. It wasn't just a performance; it was an invigorating experience that took the entire show to the next level.

I've heard plenty about the "backing track" controversy surrounding previous W.A.S.P. performances, but honestly, their use didn't detract from the experience at all. Blackie was singing his heart out, and the authenticity of his voice came through loud and clear. Just like when I saw them on their last tour, there was no doubt in my mind that he was genuinely performing. His energy and passion were palpable, making it easy to appreciate the legitimacy of his performance. It felt real and raw, capturing the essence of what W.A.S.P. is all about.

As the self-titled album came to a close, the band exited the stage for a brief intermission, giving the audience a moment to catch their breath and soak in the sheer awesomeness of what we had just witnessed-a show 40 years in the making. When W.A.S.P. returned, the atmosphere had shifted. The backdrops had been swapped out, and as they moved through the rest of the set, the backdrop became a screen where videos were projected to enhance the experience. The tapestries on the sides of the stage were also changed as the show progressed, subtly adding layers to the evolving performance. It was a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern flair, keeping the energy fresh while honoring the legacy of the band. There were no pyrotechnics, lasers, or massive LED video screens, but honestly, the show didn't need them. The pure power of the performance and the sound of the music was enough. The focus was on the music, the energy, and the undeniable presence of W.A.S.P. in all their glory. The concert was raw, unfiltered, and everything fans love about the band-a reminder that sometimes, the best shows are the ones where the music speaks for itself.

If the Album ONE Alive tour is making a stop near you, do yourself a favor and check it out! I drove over three hours to the show, and I can confidently say it was worth every mile. The energy, the nostalgia, and the sheer power of W.A.S.P. on stage made for an unforgettable night. The only downside? Not being able to snag a new concert shirt to commemorate the experience. That's a small regret in an otherwise incredible evening, but it doesn't diminish the thrill of the show. Don't miss your chance to witness rock history!

SETLIST

"I Wanna Be Somebody"
"L.O.V.E. Machine"
"The Flame"
"B.A.D."
"School Daze"
"Hellion"
"Sleeping (In the Fire)"
"On Your Knees"
"Tormentor"
"The Torture Never Stops"
Medley 1

"Inside the Electric Circus"
"I Don't Need No Doctor"
"Scream Until You Like It"
Medley 2

"The Real Me"
"Forever Free"
"Headless Children"
"Wild Child"
"Blind in Texas"