Sevendust and Theory of a Deadman bring their The Dead Seven Tour to the Bel-Aire Backyard in Las Vegas, with support from Return to Dust.
Tonight, the Bel-Aire Backyard hosts an amazing rock show. Not only is this a co-headlining tour with two fan favorites, but it’s also at one of Las Vegas’ newer venues. It is unique because the Bel-Aire Backyard is an outdoor concert venue at the pool at the new Durango Casino. The crowd arrives early to choose between seats around the pool or standing on the lawn in front of the stage. The weather is perfect for the evening, so fans are going to enjoy it. Shortly after sunset, Return to Dust takes the stage. This is a new band to the scene, but they are quickly establishing themselves. They have a look a little reminiscent of early grunge, but their sound is pure rock. They are high energy, and the crowd loves it. A set like this is a perfect way to begin the night.
Up next is Theory of a Deadman. The people back by the pool begin to move closer to the stage as the band begins their set with “Barricade” and “Ambulance.” Tyler Connolly plays guitar for some songs and interacts with the crowd throughout. Everyone in this band has been there since the beginning, with the exception of drummer Joey Dandeneau, who is from Las Vegas, so this is an extra special show for him. Still, he has been with the band a long time, and his chemistry with Tyler, Dave, and Dean is undeniable. The set continues with fan favorites like “Winnebago (Lay Low) and “Santa Monica.” There are also a few covers in the set, including “Nutshell” and “Wicked Game,” for which Connolly plays piano. The crowd loves all of it. They sing along and jump up and down. Before too long, the set wraps up with “Bad Girlfriend.”
The fans are enjoying the set and the overall vibe of the venue, but now they start to pack the area in front of the stage in anticipation of Sevendust. Before the band takes the stage, what can only be described as a hype song or walk out music is played. It is customized for tonight, calling out the venue and the members of the band. It is unique, and it does seem to make the crowd feel special. The band takes the stage and launches into an explosive set with “One,” “Denial,” and “Is This the Real You.” It is difficult to know where to look because each member of this band has amazing stage presence. Singer Lajon Witherspoon is one of the great frontmen, drummer Morgan Rose is ferocious, guitarists Clint Lowery and John Connolly play with precision, and bassist Vinnie Hornsby is all over the stage matching all the energy. Lajon spends a lot of time interacting with the crowd, telling touching stories and throwing guitar picks to the eagerly waiting fans. The set continues with songs like “Waffle,” “Angel’s Son,” and “Black,” before ending with “Face to Face.” It is a perfect mix of their discography and a great set. This sold-out crowd has sung along to every note, jumped up and down, swam if they wanted to, and even engaged in some moshing despite the venue not wanting it. It seems like it has been a bit since Sevendust played in Las Vegas, and they clearly have a huge fan base here that can’t wait for them to come back.
Fans that came out for this show were treated to three great bands at an intimate venue with a unique atmosphere. If the Dead Seven Tour comes to your town, do not miss the opportunity to go see it.
THEORY OF A DEADMAN
Website Facebook X
