First off let me start by Thanking Michael Brandvold for his assistance in me getting to cover this show!! I also did the VIP Meet n Greet experience and let me tell you, if you undecided, Do it! One of the best VIP's deal out there, not your usually cattle line vip where your ushered through in a few short minutes. Blackie was excellant host of it! Now on too my Review of the Show!!
The legendary Ryman Auditorium served as the backdrop for a night of metal fury as Armored Saint and W.A.S.P. unleashed their power on November 26, 2024. Both bands, decades into their careers, proved they still have the fire that has defined their legacy in the heavy metal world.
Armored Saint kicked off the evening with their trademark blend of traditional heavy metal and hard rock. Frontman John Bush, as charismatic as ever, delivered a performance full of intensity and passion, proving why he remains one of the most respected voices in metal. Opening with "End of Attention Span," the band wasted no time in getting the crowd roaring. Their set was a showcase of fan favorites, including "Reign of Fire," "Book of Blood," and "March of the Saint." Guitarists Phil Sandoval and Jeff Duncan delivered scorching riffs, while Joey Vera’s bass work and Gonzo Sandoval’s drumming kept the foundation heavy. The chemistry between the members was undeniable, and their performance highlighted both the raw power and melodic finesse that have kept Armored Saint relevant for decades.
As the set drew to a close with the blistering "Can you Deliver (sung from the Balcony!)," it was clear Armored Saint left a lasting impression on the Ryman audience. They set the bar high for the night, perfectly priming the crowd for the mayhem that W.A.S.P. was about to unleash.
When W.A.S.P. took the stage, the atmosphere shifted. The band, led by the enigmatic Blackie Lawless, brought their signature shock rock aesthetic to the historic venue, transforming The Ryman into a theatrical metal spectacle. Opening with the explosive "I wanna Be Somebody," the band immediately commanded attention. Lawless, draped in his iconic leather and chains, delivered a dripping performance with attitude and theatrical flair. His vocals were powerful, carrying the sinister edge that has defined W.A.S.P.’s sound since the ‘80s.
The setlist was split into 2 sections, first being the entire Debut album in its entirety from start to finish IN ORDER! keeping long-time fans and newcomers alike enthralled. Songs like "Hellion," "L.O.V.E. Machine," and "B.A.D. " took the audience on a ride through W.A.S.P.’s early wild career. The visuals were as striking as the music, with lighting and effects amplifying the dark, rebellious energy of the performance. Blackie Lawless showed that age hasn't dulled his edge; his presence was commanding, and his interaction with the audience made it feel like a true rock-and-roll ritual.
W.A.S.P. closed out the night with a medley of hits that included “Inside The Electric Circus ,I Don’t Need No Doctor, Scream Until You Like It”, Wasp followed the medley with other Classics such as “The Real Me” "Forever Free"( amazing Live Version) and "The Headless Children," leaving the crowd chanting for more, which they got in the form of a a cappella intro to “Wild Child” , as the final notes of “Blind in Texas” echoed through the legendary venue. It was a night where two heavy metal titans showed Nashville that rock is far from dead. Armored Saint and W.A.S.P. delivered a performance worthy of The Ryman’s storied history, with both bands proving they remain at the top of their game.
For fans of traditional heavy metal, this was a night to remember—one where the past and present collided in a celebration of the raw power and theatricality that only bands like Armored Saint and W.A.S.P. can deliver.
Find out more about both bands on their websites and Socials!
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