On April 28th 2016, The Machine Shop in Flint was filled with enthusiastic metalheads for another night of rock and roll. First up was a West Michigan band, Coldville, who played to a sparse crowd. Lead singer Luke Ponce, delivered the songs with enthusiasm while Matt Millering played drums and Aaron Lutz played lead guitar. On bass guitar and quite the spark plug as he was everywhere on stage, was Jimmy Blankenship. Coldville went through a retooling of their bands lineup in 2012 and developed more of a mainstream sound. You can hear the influences from Shinedown, Papa Roach and Foo Fighters. Playing an all original set with songs “This Fight”, “Mad World” and “The Silence”, to name a few. Coldville has the potential to break out as long they keep honing their craft.
Next up was another local band, Westfall, out of Flint, Michigan. Comprised of three guys, Erik Hutson on bass and vocals, Jarrod Montague on drums and vocals and Bobbie Kurtz on guitar and vocals., Westfall had a fun chemistry as they delighted the growing crowd with a set mixed with original tunes and cover songs. Westfall showed their humorous side with a rocking rendition of Sir Mix-a-lot’s “Baby Got Back”, but also showed their talents with original material like,” Industrial Rodent”.
Headlining the evening was Devour The Day, who hit the stage with a presence you cannot deny. Like a well-oiled machine, Devour The Day wowed the audience who now filled the floor with energy and excitement. David Hoffman was electric as he wailed lead guitar. Ronnie Farris kept the tempo going on drums paired with Joey “Chicago” Walser on bass. Blake Allison on vocals was in top form as he belted out older fan favorites from the album ‘Time and Pressure’ with “Good Man”, “Respect” and “Blackout” amongst others. But what was great to see was how well the new material off the latest album ‘S.O.A.R.’ went over with the crowd. And things went great. Many new songs were played and each of them were well received. It’s a testament to how talented this band is when new material rocks just as much as time tested fan favorites. With songs like “Lightning in the Sky”, “Heaven” and “Golden City”, it’s a treat to know this band will be continuing to climb the ladder of success.
For those who came to witness Devour The Day, live, they were not disappointed, if anything, they left us wanting more. Don’t miss Devour The Day when they come to your town, these guys are the real deal.