The PNC Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ, hosted one of the most eclectic and electrifying rock shows of the summer, as Falling In Reverse brought their high-octane live show to the venue. With a stacked lineup that included Jeris Johnson, Tech N9ne, Black Veil Brides, and Dance Gavin Dance, the night promised a fusion of styles and genres that had something for everyone. From the moment the first opener hit the stage to the final notes of Falling In Reverse’s headlining set, it was clear that this was going to be a night to remember for the packed crowd.
The night kicked off with Jeris Johnson, a rising star who has made waves in the alternative scene with his unique blend of rock and hip-hop influences. His set was a perfect introduction to the evening, with songs that were both catchy and hard-hitting. Johnson’s charismatic stage presence quickly won over the audience, and his ability to seamlessly shift between aggressive vocals and melodic hooks made his performance stand out. Songs like “My Sword” and his remix of Seal’s “Kiss From A Rose”” had the crowd singing along, setting the tone for the energy that would carry through the entire night.
Tech N9ne was up next, bringing his signature rapid-fire flow and intense stage presence to the mix. While it might seem unusual to see a hip-hop artist on a rock-centric bill, Tech N9ne proved why he is one of the most versatile and respected artists in the game. His performance was a masterclass in lyricism and energy, with tracks like “Hood Go Crazy” and “Caribou Lou” eliciting massive reactions from the crowd. Backed by pounding beats and his relentless delivery, Tech N9ne’s set added a dynamic element to the night, appealing to both diehard fans of rap and rock enthusiasts. By the time his set ended, the crowd was left buzzing, fully immersed in the diverse range of performances.
As the sun set and the stage lights intensified, Black Veil Brides took the stage to a roar of excitement. The gothic rock band, known for their theatrical image and anthemic songs, delivered a performance that was both polished and powerful. Opening with “Faithless,” the band immediately captivated the audience with their hard-hitting riffs and frontman Andy Biersack’s commanding vocals. Black Veil Brides’ set was a journey through their catalog, with fan favorites like “In The End” and a cover of Billy Idol’s “Rebel Yell” sending the crowd into a frenzy. The band’s tight musicianship, combined with their visually striking performance, created a standout moment in the evening.
Next up was Dance Gavin Dance, a band known for their experimental blend of post-hardcore, progressive rock, and mathcore. Their intricate musicianship and dual vocal attack, featuring clean vocalist Tilian Pearson and unclean vocalist Jon Mess, created a whirlwind of sound that kept the audience engaged from start to finish. Opening with “Spooks,” Dance Gavin Dance immediately showcased their technical prowess, with complex guitar riffs and unpredictable time signatures that had the crowd hooked. Pearson’s soaring vocals paired with Mess’s visceral screams created a dynamic contrast that energized the performance. Tracks like “We Own the Night” and “Evaporate” were clear highlights, with the band’s loyal fanbase screaming along to every word. The crowd’s response was electric, proving that Dance Gavin Dance continues to push the boundaries of their genre.
As the night reached its climax, the anticipation for Falling In Reverse was at an all-time high. When the lights dimmed and frontman Ronnie Radke emerged, the crowd erupted in cheers. Opening with “Prequel,” the band immediately launched into their signature blend of metalcore, rap, and electronic elements, creating a wall of sound that hit the audience like a tidal wave. Radke’s larger-than-life stage presence and charismatic delivery made it clear that this was his show, as he effortlessly commanded the stage. The combination of heavy guitar riffs, electronic samples, and Radke’s rapid-fire vocal style gave the performance a unique edge, setting Falling In Reverse apart from the other acts of the night.
The setlist was a mix of old and new, with tracks like “I’m Not A Vampire” and “The Drug In Me Is You” sending waves of nostalgia through the crowd, while newer tracks like “Voices In My Head” demonstrated the band’s evolution. The theatrical elements of the show added another layer to the performance, with pyrotechnics, LED screens, and Radke’s showmanship creating a sensory overload. The highlight of the set came during “Popular Monster,” arguably the band’s most recognizable track. The crowd erupted, singing along to every word as Radke delivered the song’s powerful lyrics with raw emotion and intensity. The fusion of metalcore breakdowns and hip-hop-inspired verses made for a thrilling performance that had the crowd in a frenzy.
Falling In Reverse’s ability to blend genres was on full display, and the energy in the venue never wavered. Radke’s vocal versatility, shifting from melodic singing to aggressive rapping and screaming, kept the audience on their toes throughout the set. His interactions with the crowd were genuine, as he expressed gratitude for the fans who have stuck with the band through thick and thin. The band’s performance was tight, with each member playing with precision and passion.
By the time Falling In Reverse closed the night with “Ronald,” with Tech N9ne, the energy in the PNC Art Center was at its peak. The audience had been treated to a night of diverse, high-energy performances, each act bringing something unique to the table. Falling In Reverse, with their genre-defying sound and electrifying stage presence, capped off the night with a performance that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
Falling In Reverse
Dance Gavin Dance
Black Veil Brides
Tech N9ne
Jeris Johnson
