The first decent week of weather in Toronto and nice way to celebrate with a concert at TD Echo Beach featuring Corrosion of Conformity, Clutch and Lamb of God.
What this age of corporatism means for the concert-goer so far is not yet clear. Definitely more visits from established bands, with acts coming through town at least twice a year. Also more food truck vendors seem to be getting into the venue. And better drink selection (finally).
First time seeing any of these bands. I only knew Corrosion of Conformity through Pepper Keenan's audition for the Metallica bassist position documented in Some Kind of Monster. Keenan is a gentleman and very classy and full of praise for TO as the opener. I liked two of their tracks and will have to spend some more time appreciating their contributions to 90s metal.
Never heard of Clutch until this gig and thought they (almost?) stole the show. Great rhythmic sensibilities. Love their sound. Bought a T-shirt. Definitely check them out if you like metal with some groove or southern flavour.
Have always wanted to see Lamb of God. Most of the concert attendees were sporting Lamb of God Ts. A few had "Free Randy Blythe" Ts. They did not disappoint with Blythe jumping around the stage in an energetic but sadly short set (venue at fault not the band). I'm a bit of a novice to Agnes Dei but thoroughly savoured three from Ashes of the Wake, an album I love. Also got a L o G T.
Sound was decent for a smallish open air venue. Sightlines were a bit challenging as the concert ground is flat not sloped; fortunately I got a half way decent spot in the sand. The venue kept to the set times fanatically. Beer selection was very good with some good quality domestic tallboys albeit at 3x LCBO price and well spaced throughout the venue. Food trucks aplenty - I skipped out on these - but looked like a good selection. Merch tent stayed open after the concert and was well-stocked. Had a sense the promoters might not have sold out the entire venue. Shoutout to the lady with the cast on her right arm!
