On October 25, 2024, Godsmack took the stage at the PPL Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania, for a night of powerful rock that captivated the audience from the first note to the last. With the support of openers Flat Black and Nothing More, the evening was a celebration of hard-hitting, no-nonsense music that reminded everyone why these bands have carved out such lasting places in the modern rock scene.
Flat Black opened the show, a band that’s been gaining traction and building a solid fanbase in recent years. Their performance was a great way to kick off the night, bringing an aggressive, energetic sound to the arena. Their setlist featured a mix of older tracks and material from their latest album, which was well-received by the audience. The band’s tight musicianship and commanding stage presence set the tone for the night, as they ripped through heavy guitar riffs, dynamic vocals, and thundering drums. While they’re still establishing themselves on bigger stages like the PPL Center, Flat Black proved they’re more than capable of warming up a crowd and getting them ready for what was to come.
Next up was Nothing More, a band known for their theatrical live performances and their unique blend of progressive rock and metal. Nothing More is one of those bands that always brings something different to their shows, and their set in Allentown was no exception. Lead vocalist Jonny Hawkins has a stage presence that’s both intense and charismatic, and his performance was mesmerizing throughout. The band’s use of elaborate stage props, including their famous “Scorpion Tail”—a custom-built, hydraulic stage element that Hawkins uses to manipulate sound effects—added a visually compelling layer to their show.
Musically, Nothing More took the audience on a journey through their catalog, mixing in fan favorites like “Jenny” and “This is the Time (Ballast)” with new material from their 2024 album CARNAL. Their sound is an interesting blend of heavy, yet melodic, with lyrics that explore themes of emotional struggle, introspection, and defiance. Each member of the band delivered a high-energy performance, and the crowd responded with equal enthusiasm. By the time Nothing More wrapped up their set, the audience was buzzing with excitement for the main act.
As Godsmack prepared to take the stage, the atmosphere shifted to one of eager anticipation. When the lights went down and the first notes of “Surrender” blasted through the speakers, the crowd erupted. Sully Erna, the band’s lead vocalist, wasted no time in getting the audience on their feet, his gravelly voice commanding attention as he moved across the stage with ease.
The band’s set was a perfect blend of old and new, with tracks from their latest album Lighting Up the Sky mixed seamlessly with classic hits like “Awake,” “Voodoo,” and “I Stand Alone.” It’s clear that Godsmack knows how to craft a setlist that caters to both long-time fans and newcomers alike, balancing the energy of their more aggressive songs with the haunting melodies of tracks like “Under Your Scars.” Guitarist Tony Rombola and bassist Robbie Merrill were locked in all night, delivering the heavy, rhythmic sound that Godsmack is known for, while drummer Shannon Larkin’s precision behind the kit added a layer of intensity to the performance.
A standout moment came when the band performed “Bulletproof,” a track that has become one of their most popular songs in recent years. The energy in the room was undeniable as the crowd sang along to every word. Another highlight was Erna’s drum battle with Larkin, a staple of Godsmack’s live shows that never fails to impress. The dual drumming segment showcased both musicians’ talents and added a fun, interactive element to the performance.
Throughout the night, Godsmack’s connection with the audience was evident. Erna frequently took breaks between songs to engage with the crowd, expressing his gratitude for their continued support over the years. His charisma as a frontman is undeniable, and he has a way of making even the largest arenas feel intimate. The production value of the show was also top-notch, with a dazzling light show that added an extra layer of spectacle to the performance.
As the night drew to a close, Godsmack ended their set with “I Stand Alone,” one of their most iconic songs. The crowd’s energy reached its peak, with everyone in the arena belting out the lyrics in unison. It was a fitting end to a night of hard-hitting rock and roll, and the band left the stage to a standing ovation.
The combination of Flat Black, Nothing More, and Godsmack created an unforgettable concert experience for everyone in attendance. Each band brought their unique style to the stage, but it was the unrelenting energy and passion of the performances that made the night truly special. From the opening chords to the final bow, this show was a reminder of why Godsmack remains one of the most beloved bands in rock music today.
Godsmack
Nothing More
Flat Black
