Category: Concert Reviews

Jelly Roll•Chase Rice• September 1, 2023•USANA Amphitheatre

Reviewed and Photographed by Logan Fang

On September 1st, renowned country artist Jelly Roll performed for a sold-out crowd at the USANA amphitheater. After topping the Billboard’s Emerging Artist chart for a record-breaking 25 weeks, Jelly stopped by Utah as part of his 44 state Backroad Baptist tour. As I arrived at the USANA amphitheater, I was greeted by an already staggering line that snaked its way into the parking lot. Rowdy concertgoers whooped as they walked through security, prompting other people in line to do the same.

Pantera•Lamb of God•Spirit in the Room•August 29, 2023•USANA Amphitheatre

Reviewed and Photographed by Nate Bonney

Alright! It’s about time for this concert! It has been 22 years since Pantera has toured. A lot has happened since then. Break up, sidebands, recovery, the untimely death of guitarist and brother/co-founder Dimebag Darrell, and the death of his brother, Vinnie Paul in 2018. It was about time for their songs to be heard again live and that is what this tour was about.

Mind the Gap Music Festival•August 26, 2023•The Gateway

Reviewed and Photographed by Logan Fang

To celebrate National Women’s Equality Day on August 26th, Live Nation Women hosted a festival featuring various female artists at The Gateway. Titled “Mind the Gap”, this festival focused on bringing to light the gaps in equality that many women face in their lives, be it through disparities in income, political representation, or educational attainment. In partnership with Salt Lake Community College, Mind the Gap donated a portion of ticket sales towards funding scholarships for students in the entertainment industry. Hence, this concert was an excellent way to spread awareness and help remedy the gender gaps that are quite prevalent in Utah. 

Cigarettes After Sex•Ogden Twilight•August 23, 2023•Ogden Amphitheater

Reviewed and Photographed by Kevin Rolfe

Cigarettes After Sex is a band that has captivated audiences with their dreamy and ethereal sound. The band recently performed at the Ogden Twilight Concert series, and it was a night to remember. The band’s music is characterized as “Dream Pop”, providing soft, soothing vocals, and a slow, steady tempo. I admit that I wasn’t very familiar with Cigarettes After Sex.  But I knew this show sold out really fast and people were clamoring to find anyone willing to sell their ticket.  Ogden Amphitheater was packed when I walked in.

Sylvan Esso•August 22, 2023• Ogden Amphitheater

Reviewed and Photographed by Kevin Rolfe

Sylvan Esso’s performance at the Ogden Twilight Concert Series was a dazzling display of musical talent and showmanship. The duo of Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn delivered a high-energy set that kept the audience on their feet and dancing throughout the entire show.  There was quite a bit of rain leading up to the concert.  I think it may have scared off a few fans.  The show was sold out, but it looked like some people stayed home in fear of being caught in a major storm.  Fortunately for those who were brave enough to show up, they were able to enjoy the show without any major precipitation issues.

Sam Smith•Jessie Reyez•August 19, 2023•Delta Center

Reviewed and Photographed by Alisha Gregson

On Saturday, August 19, the Delta Center welcomed Sam Smith to Salt Lake City. As I drove downtown in the pouring rain, I was grateful to be attending an indoor concert that evening. The arena was filled with fans excited to attend the much-anticipated show. 

Carin León• August 18, 2023• Delta Center

Reviewed and Photographed by Kevin Rolfe

Carin León’s concert at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City was an incredible experience. From start to finish, León’s energy and passion for his music was evident and infectious. This concert was a new experience for me.  I’m what some might call a “gringo”. While I come from Mexican heritage, I don’t speak Spanish.  Embarrassing I know.