Staind and Godsmack Tour: Review and Photos

2023-08-10

Staind at Pine Knob, on tour with Godsmack, 2023

Staind and Godsmack Tour 2023: View photos and read a review of the tour’s stop at Pine Knob near Detroit

Rock bands Staind and Godsmack are touring the U.S. together on a North American amphitheater run, and the show reached Pine Knob near Detroit on Wednesday (Aug. 9). If there was any question about the staying power of these bands, both of whom have been rocking it for more than 20 years, that was put to rest with this tour. From the pavilion seats to the top of the hill at the end of the amphitheater, Pine Knob was packed, shoulder to shoulder, with adoring rock fans ready to see this Staind and Godsmack live.

“I’ve seen Godsmack five times and Staind many times, also,” one fan randomly said walking into the venue. The fact people come back to see these two bands multiple times in concert is a testament to their longevity and high-quality stage shows.

For Staind fans, this show was a long time coming. The band hasn’t been touring much lately, with vocalist Aaron Lewis instead doing his solo shows. But, now Staind are back and have their first new album in 12 years, “Confessions of the Fallen,” out this September. Meanwhile, Godsmack are touring being their latest album, this year’s “Lighting Up the Sky.”

Beastie Boys legend Mix Master Mike kicked off the evening with a rousing set, as fans filed in. Then, Staind took the stage around 7:20 p.m., playing to an already packed amphitheater. The Massachusetts band started the set with “Lowest in Me.” It’s the latest single off their aforementioned upcoming album, “Confessions of the Fallen.” The band sounded tight and solid from the start of their set to the finish. Also, every band member – Lewis, guitarist Mike Mushok, bass player Johnny April and drummer Sal Giancarelli – took reign of their role onstage and really put on a show. Musically, the set was heavy on Staind’s more melodic songs, such as “So Far Away,” “Right Here” and “Fade.” That said, they raged and roared with tracks such as “For You” and “Mudshovel.” Furthermore, the latter closed out the set.

Godsmack ended the night, bringing pyro and scorching hot flames to the show. Taking the stage around 9:20 p.m., Sully Erna and company started the set with “When Legends Rise,” off their 2018 release by the same name. Godsmack are statesmen of rock music, and it shows in their live set. Moreover, I’ve seen them perform live several times, and they bring a consistency to their shows that simply demands respect. Musically, Godsmack delivered plenty of classics (“1000hp,” “Voodoo”). They also played cuts off their latest album, “Lighting Up the Sky” (“Surrender,” “You and I”).

It’s hard to imagine rock radio without Staind and Godsmack. Both bands have dominated the charts from the 2000s to today. After seeing both these bands in action again, their high-caliber live shows show why they’ve enjoyed such longevity. View photos from the Staind and Godsmack 2023 tour stop at Pine Knob below.

Aaron Lewis at Pine Knob: Staind and Godsmack tour 2023 photos

Mike Mushok of Staind

Johnny April of Staind

Aaron Lewis of Staind

Aaron Lewis and Sal Giancarelli of Staind

Sully Erna: Staind and Godsmack tour 2023 photos

Robbie Merrill of Godsmack

Robbie Merrill of Godsmack

Sully Erna of Godsmack

Tony Rombola of Godsmack

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Anne Erickson

Meet the expert - Author, writer and editor Anne Erickson is a Detroit-based music reporter and radio host. She has written for the USA Today Network, Consequence.net, Blabbermouth.net, Loudwire.com and many more. Anne holds a master's degree from Michigan State University. Contact Anne at anne@audioinkradio.com.