With a dark overcast sky amidst the hustling and bustling city of San Francisco, the ambassador of Metal himself, Rob Halford, delivered a powerful message to those assembled at The Regency Ballroom. Real metal fans only, none others need apply.
Many of San Francisco’s metal royalty were in attendance, Geoff Thorpe from Vicious Rumors and Chuck Billy of Testament to name a few. However there was little doubt that Rob Halford was the main attraction.
From the galvanizing chants of, “Halford!! Halford!! Halford!!” to the energy that was completely electric, it was obvious that these fans weren’t going to be denied. When Halford and Company hit the stage it was clear that they were on a mission. Despite the fact this one off show was to be a warm up for the upcoming OzzFest tour, the delivery from the outset set the intensity level at 12+.
Opening the set with the slowly moody and ominous Silent Screams, the band was not only tight, but like a caged lion ready to roar. As the opener came to its crescendo they jumped right into Made of Metal, Made in Hell, Resurrection, and it was just getting hotter. The sweat was steaming from the walls and it was clear that band and audience were of one accord. Hearing Rob wail during Resurrection made it clear that he not only still has it, but could he be in his prime? It seemed pretty obvious to everyone that Halford was just warming up.
Leaving the audience in a near frenzy during such numbers as Never Again, Golgotha, and Heart of a Lion, Rob had the audience in the palm of his hand. As the band started up the stellar Priest classic Never Satisfied, the pit morphed in a place that only the bravest dared go. The swirling mass chanted, screamed, and had feet flying during the power chorded classic.
Closing the show with Savior and the obligatory double shot from ‘Crucible’ Crystal and Rock the World Forever, fans were left breathless. The auditory carnage was complete and the faithful left happy and satisfied. Selections were played from Priest, Halford, and Fight and it was spot on, and without fear of contradiction the sound was precise and powerful. Kudos to the front of house engineer, 125 decibels indeed!
If this performance is any indication of what attendees of the upcoming OzzFest shows can expect, they should be prepared for a metal onslaught unlike any other. The Metal God has brought his army with him; metal heads prepare to be crushed under the weight.