It started out with Craig: a nice, “balls-out hardcore” band from Long Island. A pit emerged immediately, which is a real good sign that the band’s doin what it’s supposed to! They were followed by the great sXe hardcore band What Feeds the Fire. They had great, positive lyrics and a whole lotta dance parts. The crowd went nuts for them.
Then, a big block of punk and old school style hardcore was delivered by way of the Dedication, Forthright, Late Night Revenge, Bloodshot Hooligans, and Kill Your Idols. Forthright in particular was very impressive. I’ve seen them quite a few times and this was by far the most whipped-up they ever got a crowd. Piles up kids screaming the lyrics to all their songs and one of the biggest pits of the night.
Finally, Shutdown and Through My Pride played. They were both incredible. Originally Shutdown was supposed to close the show, but they switched spots with the local boys. The crowd kept high energy throughout both sets, which was remarkable after having been moving through 7 bands prior to these guys.
And I think that’s what made this fest so great: the crowd. They were very enthusiastic and energetic the whole night. Giving every single band a phenomenal response, which makes them play better. A+, all the way.
