Queensrÿche recently delivered a powerful and unforgettable performance at The National in Richmond, Virginia!
The National Theater is a staple of Richmond’s live music scene, and Queensrÿche fans filled the 1,500-capacity venue. The historic theater’s design, with its balcony seating and deep stage, enhanced the concert’s visual impact. As the audience eagerly awaited the band, there was a buzz of excitement that hinted at the special night ahead.
At The National on Oct. 12, the evening began with a strong support performance from the entertaining rocker Jared James Nichols, a blues-rock guitarist known for his raw, soulful sound. His set featured explosive guitar solos, a blend of heavy blues, and energetic showmanship, providing the perfect contrast to Queensrÿche’s more polished and progressive style. Nichols managed to engage the crowd early, priming them for the main event.
The venue stage was adorned with atmospheric lighting and several backdrops featuring sigils from their EP and The Warning album, and as the lights dimmed, the anticipation for Queensrÿche’s performance was buzzing through the crowd.
Queensrÿche kicked off the show with “Queen of the Reich,” instantly igniting the crowd. The classic track showcased frontman Todd La Torre’s powerful vocals, and resonated with both the grit and melody that defines the band’s sound.
Stream the Queensrÿche EP by Queensrÿche on Spotify:
La Torre’s vocals were a highlight throughout the evening. Although comparisons to Geoff Tate are inevitable, La Torre has firmly established himself as a powerhouse in his own right, hitting the high notes and emotive tones with precision.
It was a powerful showcase of the band’s enduring legacy and ability to captivate audiences with their intricate musicianship and theatrical stage presence.
The setlist consisted of all the songs from Queensrÿche’s original EP and their first full length album, The Warning.
The band’s current lineup exuded confidence and chemistry, delivering a sound that felt both fresh and nostalgic. The crowd was a mix of longtime fans and newer followers, but everyone was united in their enthusiasm for the band’s performance and the intimate venue allowed for an up-close experience.
Guitarists Michael Wilton and Mike Stone delivered some of the night’s most electrifying moments, their harmonized riffs and solos adding layers of complexity to each track.
Eddie Jackson’s bass lines and Casey Grillo’s drumming provided a thunderous rhythm section and kept the energy high throughout the set.
While the band let the music take center stage, the lighting and visuals complemented the performance perfectly. Dramatic lighting shifts punctuated the more intense moments, particularly during heavier tracks like “Take Hold of The Flame” and “The Warning.” There were no over-the-top special effects, but the understated use of visual elements allowed the music to shine.
The band closed the night with a powerful encore featuring “Eyes of a Stranger,” a track from the Operation: Mindcrime album that has become a staple of their live shows. The song’s soaring vocals and epic structure made for a fitting end to a memorable and exciting evening of progressive metal brilliance.
Queensryche:
Todd LaTorre – vocals
Michael Wilton – guitar
Mike Stone – guitar
Eddie Jackson – bass
Casey Grillo – drums
Setlist
Queensryche EP
1. Queen of the Reich
2. Nightrider
3. Blinded
4. The Lady Wore Black
The Warning
5. Warning
6. En Force
7. Deliverance
8. No Sanctuary
9. NM 156
10. Take Hold of the Flame
11. Child of Fire
12. Roads to Madness
Encore
13. Prophecy
14. Eyes of a Stranger
Here are some photos of Queensrÿche performing at The National in Richmond, Virginia, on Oct. 12, 2024. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Michael Sprouse/Odd Rocker Photography.
