311•AWOLNATION•October 5, 2023•The Union
Reviewed and Photographed by Kevin Rolfe
When I heard that 311 and AWOLNATION were touring together I thought it was such an unusual pairing. Would they have the same fans? I wasn’t sure the very different sounding bands would be a palate best suited for a concert. But the show was a good time. Both bands came out, did their thing and the audience loved it.
AWOLNATION
Stepping into an AWOLNATION concert is like entering a sonic kaleidoscope, where Aaron Bruno’s musical prowess takes center stage. The audience is thrust into a whirlwind of electrifying energy and genre-defying sounds. Since their formation in 2009, AWOLNATION has carved a niche with their eclectic blend of rock, electronic, and alternative influences. Experiencing them live is an immersive journey into the heart of their sonic universe.
Aaron Bruno, the creative force behind AWOLNATION, emerges with a charismatic presence that immediately commands attention. His stage presence is a potent mix of raw energy and calculated showmanship, drawing the audience into the unique world he is about to create.
AWOLNATION concerts are a sonic rollercoaster, navigating through hits like “Hollow Moon (Bad Wolf),” a mega anthem that often elicits an eruption of cheers and fans jumping up and down. Yet, it’s not just about the chart-toppers; the band’s setlist spans their discography, weaving a narrative that showcases the evolution of their sound. From the high-octane beats of “Run” to the introspective melodies of “Handyman,” each song adds a layer to the rich tapestry of their live performance.
What sets AWOLNATION apart is their ability to seamlessly traverse musical genres within a single concert. The transition from rock-infused anthems to electronic beats is executed with precision, keeping the audience on the edge of anticipation. The dynamic interplay between electronic elements and traditional rock instrumentation creates a sonic landscape that is both innovative and accessible.
The concert experience is enhanced by the visual spectacle accompanying the music. Intricate light displays, synchronized visuals, and a carefully crafted stage design amplify the emotional intensity of each song. It’s not just a concert; it’s a multi-sensory experience where the visual and auditory elements intertwine to create a holistic journey.
The was a sense of camaraderie among concertgoers. AWOLNATION’s music, with its emotive lyrics and infectious beats, becomes a unifying force. Strangers become friends in this shared musical pilgrimage, and the crowd’s collective energy becomes an integral part of the performance.
As the concert reaches its zenith, the finale, “Sail” becomes a climactic celebration. The air is charged with the echoes of the final chords, and the audience is left in awe of the sonic journey they’ve just experienced. An AWOLNATION concert is not just about witnessing a band perform; it’s about immersing oneself in an audio-visual spectacle, feeling the pulse of the music, and emerging on the other side with a renewed appreciation for the artistry and innovation that define this dynamic musical entity. It was going to be difficult for 311 to top AWOL’s performance.
311
A 311 concert is not merely a musical performance; it’s a pulsating celebration of sound, rhythm, and unity that reverberates through the very core of the audience. The band, formed in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1988, has found a genre-defying blend of rock, reggae, and rap, creating a distinct sonic tapestry that comes to life in a concert setting.
From the moment the lights dim and the crowd’s anticipation reaches a crescendo, the atmosphere becomes charged with the promise of an unforgettable experience. Lead vocalist Nick Hexum takes the stage with an easy confidence, his voice carrying the weight of years of musical evolution. Paired with the rhythmic prowess of the band’s other members—SA Martinez, Tim Mahoney, P-Nut, and Chad Sexton—311’s live performance is a testament to their musical chemistry.
The setlist carefully spanned their extensive discography. It was like a journey through time. Hits like “Down” and “Amber” elicit cheers of recognition, while deeper cuts like “Beautiful Disaster” (Show opener) and “Creatures (For a While)” (Main set closer) showcase the band’s versatility. The seamless transitions between genres within a single song demonstrate 311’s ability to defy musical boundaries, keeping the audience on their toes.
One of the defining features of a 311 concert is the band’s infectious energy. Nick Hexum effortlessly engages the crowd, creating a symbiotic relationship between performers and audience. SA Martinez’s rap verses inject a rhythmic intensity, and the instrumental solos allow each member to shine individually, reinforcing the collective brilliance of the band.
The visual spectacle accompanying the music is an integral part of the 311 concert experience. Dynamic lighting and mesmerizing visuals enhance the journey. The band’s iconic logo—311’s arranged in a circle—serves as a backdrop, a visual anchor that symbolizes the unity forged through the shared love of music.
What sets a 311 concert apart is the sense of community it fosters. The audience, diverse in age and background, comes together under the common banner of appreciation for the band’s music. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, the inclusivity of the concert environment is palpable. Strangers become friends, connected by the shared experience of being part of something larger than themselves.
As the concert progresses, the energy in the venue intensifies. Crowd surfing becomes a communal expression of euphoria, and the rhythmic sway of the audience mirrors the pulse of the music. Each song is not just heard but felt, creating a sensory immersion that transcends the boundaries of a traditional concert.
In the encore, 311 leaves the audience with a lingering sense of elation. The final notes of “Down” echo in the minds of attendees long after the last chord is played. A 311 concert is not merely a musical event; it’s a celebration of diversity, a testament to the enduring power of music, and a collective experience that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to be part of the journey.