Electrifying Resilience: Staind & Breaking Benjamin Ignite Chicago!
In the vibrant heart of Tinley Park, Illinois, music fans gathered at the Credit Union 1 Amphitheater for a night that promised a dynamic blend of rock and emotion, featuring the powerhouse acts of Staind and Breaking Benjamin. The co-headline tour stop was a much-anticipated event, drawing fans eager for a night of powerful performances and memorable moments. The stage was set, the crowd was buzzing, and the energy was palpable.
All Photos By: Nashville Is His Bride
Kicking off the evening with a spirited start was Lakeview, the Nashville-by-way-of-Pittsburgh duo made up of Jesse Denaro and Luke Healy. Their blend of Country soul, Rock scope, and Pop ambition created an invigorating atmosphere. With their set opener Hit's Different, they immediately captured the attention of the audience. Lakeview's sound is rooted in storytelling, driven by a carpe diem attitude that resonates with many. As they tore through an eight-song set, it was clear they left a lasting impression. The highlight came with Money Where Your Mouth Is, its grungy guitars echoing throughout the amphitheater, connecting with the crowd on a visceral level.
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I’m going to make a big (expletive) point, just because we are on this stage, doesn’t mean we are the only (expletive) rockstars in this (expletive) place right now. Every (expletive) Nurse, Every (expletive) Carpenter, Every (expletive) Plumber & Electrician. Every Concrete (expletive) out there. Every Auto Body Mechanic, Every (expletive) Diesel Mechanic. This song is called Home Team sing it!
Dedicating Home Team to Blue Collar Workers from their 2024 self-titled album, Lakeview displayed empathy and connection to their listeners, setting a motivational tone for the night.
Next to command the stage was Daughtry, a band synonymous with rock excellence, fronted by the charismatic Chris Daughtry. From the moment they kicked off with Reckoning, it was clear the band was here to deliver an unforgettable performance. Their 50-minute set was a testament to their enduring appeal and versatility. They were not just content with performing their own hits; they included covers like Separate Ways by Journey and Changes by The Deftones, showcasing their range and paying homage to rock legends. Chris shared a moment of introspection, expressing his wish that he had written Changes. They took fans down memory lane with It's Not Over, while also offering a glimpse into the future with a brand-new track, The Dam.
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A lot of times artists are kind of precious about, put your phones away this is just for you. (expletive) I want y’all to film it, post it, tell everybody how cool it is
Daughtry closed their set with Artificial, reminding fans of their chart-topping success and giving a shout-out to local Rock Station WIIL for years of support. While the absence of Home was felt, the rock-heavy set resonated well, fueling the audience with energy and anticipation.
As the lights dimmed, the amphitheater brimmed with excitement for Breaking Benjamin, the acclaimed rock band from Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Formed in 1999, their legacy of hard-hitting rock has only grown stronger over the years. Launching their set with Failure and Until The End, Breaking Benjamin set the bar high with a relentless energy that captivated the crowd. With a 16-song set list that included fan favorites like Follow, So Cold, Dance With The Devil, Crawl, and Breathe, the band demonstrated their musical prowess and heartfelt gratitude to the fans.
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Lead singer Benjamin Burnley's voice resonated with clarity and strength, affirming their place as rock titans. Closing the set with Dear Agony and I Will Not Bow, the crowd's cheers demanded more, prompting an encore with Had Enough and The Diary Of Jane. Breaking Benjamin's performance was a masterclass in rock excellence, leaving the audience invigorated and yearning for more.
Finally, it was time for the headliner, Staind, to take the stage. The roar from the crowd was thunderous, a testament to their anticipation and love for the band. However, the night took an unexpected turn as technical issues marred the opening song Lowest In Me. Guitarist Mike Mushok's guitar malfunction left the stage in a brief but palpable tension, with lead singer Aaron Lewis visibly frustrated as he slapped his mic stand to the ground. After a short pause, the band returned with Eyes Wide Open, determined to reclaim the energy of the night. Despite the early setback, Aaron Lewis took a moment to apologize and connect with the crowd, lighting a cigarette as he candidly shared his appreciation for their presence.
The set continued with songs like Fade and Right Here, though the energy seemed to wane, possibly due to the earlier disruption. Aaron Lewis's gratitude to the audience was evident, acknowledging those who stayed with them through the hiccups. As the set closed with So Far Away and For You, Staind returned for an encore with It's Been A While and Mudshovel, delivering a powerful conclusion despite the night's challenges.
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In the end, the concert was a testament to the resilience and passion of live music. Despite the hurdles, each band brought their unique flair and dedication to the stage, inspiring fans with their music and commitment. Breaking Benjamin's standout performance set a high bar, while Staind showed the tenacity to push through and deliver for their fans. The night at the Credit Union 1 Amphitheater was a celebration of rock music, a reminder of the power of perseverance, and an invitation to music fans to continue seeking out those moments that make us feel alive.
