Concert Review: Asking Alexandria (Piedmont Hall)

BY MAUI CABRAL

All my friends are gonna be on stage and I GOTTA SHOOT THAT SHOW! I hear my friend in The Word Alive is gonna be in town, with a couple of other buddies from bands Asking Alexandria , Memphis May Fire, and Archers. A part of me knew that this one was gonna be heavy an oh boy was I ready!

First to the stage was Archers. Loved the vibe that these guys put out! So much so that after their set I went right up to the lead singer and joked with him. “Hey! Have you ever watched the movie Step Brothers?" "YEAH!" (With a big smile on his face.) I responded, “BROOO!! Your voice is like a combination of Fergie & Jesus!” We gave each other a big ol hug while laughing hysterically.

Second was The Word Alive I was very nervous to shoot this set. I’ve known these guys a few years now, and their original photographer/videographer Wolfe I had some big shoes to fill for the night! Seeing my friends on stage gave me such a nostalgic feeling. Reminded me of the very first time I saw them live. This was shortly after concert restrictions were lifted from the Covid Pandemic. First two songs pass and I’m in a rhythm! Third song “Trapped” (One of my Favorites) comes on and it’s FUCKIN GO TIME! As I’m following the lead singer Telle in this tight pit full of passionate photographers, ge notices me, walks right up and screams! He grabs my shoulder with a big smile on his face letting me know “I see you Dude!” Soon as this set was over I met them over at the merch booth where we all got to talking and he thanked me for coming out and finally being able to shoot for the band! As I gave him a massage on his shoulder he injured the night before, it was truly amazing to be able to shoot for what is really one of my favorite bands and good friends.

Third to the stage was Memphis May Fire and these dudes know how to make an electrifying pit throw down! I was waiting for them to joke about the 5 pounds of brisket to intensify Bass Vocals, but it didn’t happen. Although , things got pretty wild because during midset one of the CO2 vannons went off in my face/arm! I was covered in some COLD Ice, but the pictures couldn’t stop.

Shortly after that was the main act, Asking Alexandria! Here comes the intro! Our guys are on stage and the madness begins! One of the guitarist comes right up to me and gives me the head nod. And there goes my inner Kevin Hart: “Shits about to go... down.” Opening up with “Welcome,” the crowd starts to move around a bit when suddenly there's crowd surfers! The energy was awesome! Although we got slightly shuffled between fans, security, and photographers. Asking Alexandria kept up what they are truly known for: an incredible, energetic performance. This show was 10/10 recommended to all friends! If they are in your area, tune in! You will not be disappointed!

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JOSH "MAUI" CABRAL

Hey! I'm Maui. Originally from Queens, New York, now making Raleigh, NC my new home. I'm a touring photographer and Nomadic Motorcycle Rider, obsessed with seeing the world through different lenses!

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