GWAR entertains eager fans at Baltimore Soundstage on Nov. 9, 2018. (Photo by Shantel Breen)
GWAR rocked the Baltimore Soundstage this past Friday as devoted fans crowded the front of the stage to take part in the theatrics! It was definitely a fun way to spend a Friday evening! Despite the passing of lead singer and front man, Dave Brockie in 2014, GWAR has carried on. This creative band continues to gather a devote fan base who come to their shows for not only the music, but to enjoy the show… the messy show!
Formed in Richmond, Virginia, in 1984, GWAR has always included a rotating list of band members. Their performance and music centers around fictional characters and storylines that come alive on stage. GWAR tends to focus on outlandish topics related to sex, violence, and politics, often including a theatrical performance showcasing an untimely death of a person in the public light. Those in attendance take part in the theatrics by being drenched in fake blood as the band rocks out to their songs.
GWAR is touring in support of their newest release, The Blood of Gods, which their first album since 2013. The setlist for the show at Baltimore Soundstage included many songs off this latest recording such as “War on GWAR,” “Viking Death Machine,” and “El Presidente.” The band also made sure to play some old favorites and ended with the 1990 single and fan-favorite, “Sick of You”.
Miss May I opened for GWAR on Nov. 9, 2018. (Photo by Shantel Breen)
Opening for GWAR on this tour is the hardcore band Miss May I, who did a fantastic job of getting the audience ready for the main act. The band’s lead singer, Levi Benton, engaged the crowd continuously and would not settle for a passive audience. Crowd surfing and a massive mosh pit commenced and continued until the very last song. American Sharks, the heavy metal band from Austin, Texas, was the first opener for the evening and surprised the early arrivals with a guest guitarist appearance from GWAR!
This was the second to last show for GWARS’ The Gore, Core, Metal, and More Tour 2018; however, if you are a GWAR fan (or even just a curious spectator wanting to experience an exciting performance), you will get your chance! GWAR is playing the 9:30 Club on Dec. 29! (Buy your tickets for the GWAR show at the 9:30 Club!)
Stream The Blood of Gods by GWAR on Spotify:
Enjoy some images of GWAR, Miss May I, and American Sharks performing at Baltimore Soundstage on Nov. 9, 2018. All photos copyright and courtesy of Shantel Breen.