Memphis May Fire | 03.26.2014 | House of Blues | W.Hollywood, CA

Memphis May Fire

03/26/2014

House of Blues | W.Hollywood, CA

“Even though the noise decibels exceeded that of a rusty chainsaw party, there was nothing stopping kids and adults alike from seeing two of the spiciest bands out on tour at the House of Blues, Los Angeles: Memphis May Fire and The Word Alive, respectfully.”

Words & Photos By: Timothy Farmer

Even though the noise decibels exceeded that of a rusty chainsaw party, there was nothing stopping kids and adults alike from seeing two of the spiciest bands out on tour at the House of Blues, Los Angeles: Memphis May Fire and The Word Alive, respectfully.

The House of Blues in Los Angeles has been known to bear quite the lineups in past years yet there hasn’t been one that promotes love, peace, a higher power, self-entitlement, sweat, and pure pleasure simultaneously in quite some time. All that changed when Matty Mullins of Memphis May Fire and Telle Smith of The Word Alive decided to swing on through southern California in late March. Call it metalcore, hardcore, screamo, or what-have-you; I call it badass, kiss-your-mother-goodbye American rock.

With the release of their next album hovering patiently over their heads, The Word Alive took stage second to last and never looked back. Known for his crowd interaction, Telle Smith put on a show that made everyone in the audience feel as if they were watching him in their own living room. The guitars were crisp, the drums dialed in like they were about to be played by Neil Peart or Keith Moon, and the bass sounded as if it could have done it’s own solo for each track performed.

Next up was the headlining act: Memphis May Fire. Just having released their newest album titled “Unconditional” the night before, there couldn’t have been a better location or time to showcase their newest hair-raising material. Coming out from behind the stage with an eagerness to play that spilled down each of their faces, the band owned the stage like it was their last show on earth. Each track complimented the previous and each riff seemed meticulously placed. Matty’s red hair served as a beacon for those in the audience who strived to get closer and closer to one of the masterminds behind the dominant success of the band.

Needless to say it was a show to remember. All the bands on the bill killed it yet The Word Alive and Memphis May Fire showed why they’ve been touring for years and still sell out every venue in which they play. The Word Alive will be on this year’s Warped Tour and Memphis May Fire will be touring extensively in Europe for the foreseeable future.

The Word Alive’s next album, “Real” will be released on June 10th. The album will be the first to feature Luke Holland on drums.

Memphis May Fire’s newest album “Unconditional” has charted #4 on the Billboard Top 200 chart, #1 for Hard Music, #1 for Rock, and #1 for Independent.