The York Fair in York, PA, was transformed into a rock and metal haven as Halestorm headlined a festival-style show featuring an explosive lineup with coheadliner I Prevail, and openers Hollywood Undead, and Fit For A King. The night was a celebration of powerful performances, showcasing a diverse array of styles that thrilled the crowd and created an unforgettable experience.
The evening kicked off with Fit For A King, a band that has made a significant impact in the metalcore scene. Their set was a fierce display of technical prowess and raw energy, opening with “Keeping Secrets.” The band’s aggressive riffs and thunderous drumming resonated through the fairgrounds, immediately drawing the crowd’s attention. Vocalist Ryan Kirby’s growls and clean vocals alternated seamlessly, delivering an intense performance that had fans headbanging and moshing.
Next up was Hollywood Undead, bringing their unique blend of rap-rock and nu-metal to the stage. Their performance was a dynamic mix of high-energy anthems and crowd-pleasing hits. Opening with “Califonia Dreaming,” the band ignited the audience with their infectious energy. Each member took turns delivering verses, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Songs like “Everywhere I Go” and “Bullet” had the crowd singing along, while the heavier tracks like “CHAOS” kept the energy levels high. The band’s charisma and stage presence were undeniable, as they effortlessly interacted with the audience, ensuring everyone was having a great time.
I, Prevail followed, further elevating the night with their powerful post-hardcore sound. The band opened with “There’s Fear In Letting Go,” a track that immediately had the crowd in a frenzy. Vocalists Brian Burkheiser and Eric Vanlerberghe’s contrasting styles—clean and melodic versus harsh and aggressive—created a dynamic performance that captivated the audience. The setlist included hits like “Breaking Down” and “Hurricane,” which showcased the band’s emotional depth and lyrical intensity. The band’s tight instrumentation and passionate delivery made for a compelling performance, with the crowd responding enthusiastically to every song.
As the sun set and the anticipation built, Halestorm took the stage to a roar of excitement. Opening with “I Miss The Misery,” the band immediately commanded the stage with their electrifying presence. Lzzy Hale’s powerhouse vocals and guitar skills were front and center, captivating the audience from the first note. The band’s setlist was a well-crafted mix of their greatest hits and fan favorites, including “Love Bites (So Do I),” “Freak Like Me,” and “I Get Off.”
The chemistry between the band members was evident, with Joe Hottinger’s guitar solos, Josh Smith’s bass lines, and Arejay Hale’s energetic drumming all contributing to a high-octane performance. Arejay’s drum solo was a standout moment, showcasing his incredible skill and showmanship. Lzzy’s interaction with the crowd was heartfelt and engaging, as she shared personal stories and expressed gratitude for the fans’ unwavering support.
The evening culminated with a rousing rendition of “The Steeple,” with the crowd singing along in unison. The sense of unity and shared experience was amazing, as fans of all ages came together to celebrate their love for music. Halestorm’s performance at the York Fair was a testament to their status as one of rock’s premier live acts, delivering a show that was as electrifying as it was emotionally resonant.
Each band that took the stage contributed to an unforgettable night of music, showcasing their unique styles and leaving the audience eagerly anticipating the next opportunity to see these incredible acts live. The festival-style format provided a diverse and dynamic experience, making the evening a true highlight of the York Fair.