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Wage War in Concert
Wage War are the kind of hard rock band that isn't easily categorized. That starts with their influences: Although the band's chugging riffs and jackhammering drums take cues from modern music's heaviest names (including Slipknot, August Burns Red, and As I Lay Dying), the group are also known for pairing contrasting inspirations. Their brutal grooves often fuse hip-hop and metal in the way Korn is known for doing, and frontman Briton Bond's gruff, gravelly voice alternates with the more pristine melodic approach of guitarist/vocalist Cody Quistad.
Bond, Quistad, and guitarist/vocalist Seth Blake originally formed Wage War in Ocala, Florida, in 2010 under the moniker Empires. The trio, which was then working with a different rhythm section, even released an EP in 2011, The Fall of Kings.
After some lineup shuffling, the band changed their name in 2013 and, two years later, signed a deal with Fearless Records. Wage War's 2015 full-length debut for the label, Blueprints, and the 2017 album Deadweight were both co-produced by Andrew Wade and A Day to Remember's Jeremy McKinnon.
Deadweight especially illustrates their progression as a band, as it boasts more confident, emotional songwriting and variety in dynamics. In fact, Wage War continue that soul-searching on the 2019 single "Low" — a bruising song about feeling worn down by life — and via the 2018 singles "Johnny Cash (Stripped)" and "Gravity (Stripped)." The latter two are pared-down versions of songs that originally appeared on Deadweight, and they boast chiming guitars, restrained percussion, and delicate vocals.
Live, Wage War stir up ferocious mosh pits courtesy of Bond's commanding stage presence — he directs his low growls directly at the crowd to emphasize vocal power — and aggressive, thrashing playing.
Given this energy, the band are unsurprisingly road warriors who have done several stints on the Vans Warped Tour and opened for Of Mice & Men, August Burns Red, and A Day to Remember. Wage War are now ranked among the genre's biggest heavyweights, with spots in the lineup of the Sonic Temple Art + Music Festival and Welcome to Rockville 2019.
I would have much rather had a longer set from Nothing More. The set up time for Wage War was waaaaaaaay to long, and even with ear plugs in was excessively loud. I get it everyone wants everything turned up to 11, but at the Sylvee, YOU ARE NOT AT AN OUTDOOR EVENT!
Great show, band puts on amazing live show. Would recommend.
Wage War was a band that I've been wanting to see since I discovered them years ago. They have great stage presence, energy, and they sound great live! I'm glad I was finally able to catch them and I look forward to seeing them again!
Amazing venue. A concert to die for!! I went for Wage War however I can't help but fall for the other bands! I wanna do it all over again. And again!
Wage War put on a GREAT performance. 10/10 would recommend and see them again if in town.
4th time seeing wage War live they never disappoint and always put on a fantastic performance. First time doing VIP and what an experience! Awesome to get to know all of the members! Cheers to Britton and Uncle!
Fantastic show....venue was top notch. Good view from pretty much everywhere and you can chill out on couches if you get tired of standing. I only wish Nothing More has played even longer...I mean Jonny puts on a fabulous show and love watching him play the drums. Very awesome night!
Nothing More gave a great energetic 1-hour performance and then Wage War did the same! 🤘
Had so much fun watching this show!! I love the Brooklyn Bowl! Great locations!!!
The stage presence was excellent. Sound system was clear and loud. The vocal were amazing. Sat in the balcony had an excellent view. RMA put on a great show. Although, the RMA was hot needs better ventilation.
