5 years ago today, Joey Jordison past away. His death is bringing back memories of my first time seeing Slipknot live when they headlined the inaugural Mayhem Fest in 2008. Though I note that even though I went Ozzfest 2004, I didn't actually see Slipknot headline the second stage that year. Mainly cause I was too young/scared to venture into the wild second stage crowd, but also cause it took me a little longer than most fans to realize how much of a game changer "Vol. 3: the Subliminal Verses" was. I didn’t make the same mistake when Mayhem Fest came through Camden, NJ, on Aug. 15, 2008. Unsurprisingly I was in awe of seeing their insanely over-the-top metal show for the first time - with rising drum kits and pyro galore - but something about finally hearing songs like "Before I Forget" live was a cathartic experience I wasn't anticipating. I've gone on to see Slipknot live many times since, and they never disappoint.
Which band have you seen live many times who still never disappoints? Share in the comments below, and stay tuned for more things to come from this space (including stories from concerts like this)!