Metal Shock Finland (World Assault )

Report and Photos by Erik Hernandez

When CROWBAR first hit the metal scene in 1991 with their debut, Obedience thru Suffering, the metal world was going through significant change. The arrival of grunge had been eating away like a cancer in genres both Metal and the L.A. scene dubbed “Hair Band”. It seemed that all things Metal would disappear. Fast forward 32 years and CROWBAR are still touring in both Europe and America, and the grunge scene that had nearly wiped out all things Metal, has all but disappeared.

I caught their October 4 show in East Nashville, Tennessee, at The COBRA.

When CROWBAR is on, they are always hitting on all 8 cylinders. This show was no different. The band took the stage and instantly demanded respect with their signature sludge filled riffs and hard-hitting bass and drums, supporting the onslaught. The house was sold out, and even with a limited capacity, the crowd was worked into a frenzy from the energy emitting from the stage.

Opening with the energy of Conquering, you just knew that CROWBAR was going to kick everyone’s ass! Following it up with High rate Extinction, the crowd brought their own energy during the entire set. A highlight is always Planets Collide which brings even the dead back to life with that signature riff that only Kirk can conjure. The night was filled with riffs, madness, and horns in the air, and it is like that each and every show CROWBAR puts on. One would never know that it was the night before the tour would end. The energy was high! Kirk rallied the crowd, Shane brought that mean muggin’ bass playing that is all his own, Tommy was on point with his drumming and Matt, as always, brought heavy, solid guitars.

Kirk was kind enough to talk with me a bit about future plans. His project with former CROWBAR bassist and friend, Todd Strange and former Type O Negative members Johnny Kelly and Kenny Hickey called EYE AM, will be releasing a new song soon, DOWN will be entering the studio, and more greatness from CROWBAR is to come. 2024 looks to be shaping up very nicely for “Nawlins” metal!

Kirk and company are due for some much-needed rest after 4 European runs and tons of American dates this year.

Keep your horns held high, and always follow your dreams!

-Erik

More information on Crowbar:
https://www.facebook.com/crowbarmusic
https://crowbar-zeroandbelow.com/