By John Johnson, Photos by Chaz Dykes of Chaz D. Photography
The Seminole Hard Rock Event Center in Tampa was pulsating with Casino shaking energy on a Sunday evening, as the legendary rap rock band 311 headlined an unforgettable night of music. The show, which also featured dynamic sets from AWOLNATION and Neon Trees, delivered an eclectic mix of high-octane performances and tight musicianship.
The night kicked off with a vibrant performance from Neon Trees, who wasted no time getting the crowd moving. Their seven song set was a whirlwind of pop-rock energy, and charismatic frontman Tyler Glenn is quite the intensity setter. Having played mostly outdoor shows recently, he quipped that “I’m glad we’re indoors so this queen can wear a jacket”. The infectious rhythms set by drummer/singer Elaine Bradley with Glenn’s magnetic stage presence were impossible to ignore. Highlights included “Animal” and of course “Everybody Talks,” both of which had the audience dancing and singing along as heavily prompted by Glenn. The forcefully flamboyant front man took a moment to thank a young fan named Otis, and 8 year old that was “cool enough to hang at a 21 and up gig”. They ended their short set with “Bad Dreams” that they artfully melded with a snippet of Third Eye Blind’s “Semi-Charmed Life”. Originally from Utah, Neon Trees proved to be the perfect warm-up act, their upbeat performance igniting the crowd’s anticipation for the two bands that followed. Their new album SinkYour Teeth comes out September 20th
AWOLNATION took the stage with a raw, explosive performance that showcased their unique blend of rock, pop and electronic influences. If I had to label their genre, I guess the term industrial-pop seems to fit. The vigorous interplay between electronic elements and traditional rock instrumentation creates a sonic landscape that is both innovative and accessible. Lead vocalist Aaron Bruno commanded the stage with somewhat of a Bond villain presence (albeit a likable one), with slick backed blonde hair, white tank, dress slacks and deconstructed blazer. During a relatively slow part of “Run” he grabbed an album from an audience member and signed it with panache whilst still performing. He pretended to toss the album into the crowd after autographing it, which I’m sure caused the fan to flinch. The crowd was visibly energized by tracks like “Kill Your Heroes” and “Hollow Moon,” which highlighted the LA groups ability to blend catchy hooks with intense, driving rhythms. They ended their ten song set with “Sail,” their breakout hit, that followed an epic cover of Blur’s “Song #2”. “Sail”, the bands first single, resonated through the venue with its powerful, bass-heavy beat, forcing the congregation to howl the chorus of SAIL, in perfect off-rhythm unison. Bruno’s vocal intensity and the band’s tight instrumentation made for a thrilling set that set the stage perfectly for the headliner. Special shout out to band member Isaac Carpenter, that dude can damn sure play those drums.
As the lights dimmed and the crowd’s anticipation reached fever pitch, 311 took the stage gradually, tuning up to a ditty reminiscent of The Doors. The chill was momentary as the band from Omaha jumped in to “Beautiful Disaster” and the nearly packed, intimate arena exploded with excitement. The band’s set was a masterful blend of their greatest hits and fan favorites, delivered with the same infectious energy that has defined their career since inception back in 1988. The decades old chemistry between the band members was palpable, with Nick Hexum’s distinctive vocals and SA Martinez’s dynamic rapping complementing each other flawlessly. Hexum, who I’d liken to a Ken stunt double, commands the stage with an easy confidence. Paired with the rhythmic prowess of the band’s other members— guitarist Tim Mahoney, bassist P-Nut, and Chad Sexton on drums—311’s live performance is a testament to their musical connectivity.
The setlist was a journey through 311’s extensive catalog, featuring tracks like “Come Original”, “All Mixed Up” and “Don’t Tread on Me,” (thankfully not a political statement) which had the audience swaying and singing in unison. The band’s performance was marked by their signature fusion of rock, reggae, and funk, creating a sound that was both nostalgic and refreshingly vibrant. The highlight of the evening was their extended drum solo session during “Applied Science” where the band’s percussive prowess was on full display. A personal highlight however, would be when bass player extraordinaire P-Nut (born Aaron Wills), took the spotlight. Having tossed the hoodie he wore for half of the show, the gray haired and bearded, smiled and jutted his tongue along to the crowds approval, and his effortless plunking. To wrap up his focus moment, he transitioned into Rage Against the Machine’s “Killing in the Name”, where the attendees filled in the vocals while the lanky Mr. P-Nut slapped along with delight. “Don’t Stay Home”, “Random” and “Amber” were a trifecta of tunes a couple songs out from sets end. 311’s encore was a triumphant end to an incredible night, which of course featured their massive hit “Down” leaving the exasperated crowd on a high note.
Overall, the concert at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino Event Center was a thrilling celebration of rock’s diverse spectrum, even if on a Sunday night. Neon Trees and AWOLNATION set the stage with electrifying performances, while 311 delivered a headline set that was both a retrospective and a reaffirmation of their somewhat secluded place in rock history. An extra special thank you to the staff working that night, for their courtesy and professionalism. I’m always impressed with how well they handle rock shows and their patrons with such skill, in that intimate auditorium, tucked into the Casino’s belly.
For fans of all three bands, it was an evening to remember, showcasing the magic that happens when great music and passionate fans come together.
