The 93X Family Reunion at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul is one of the shows I look forward to most each year. They never fail to put together a killer lineup, and this year was no exception. From the moment the first band hit the stage, the night felt alive with energy, and it only built from there.
I had never heard of Black Map before tonight, and I didn’t know what to expect. I was impressed at how tight they sounded, considering they are only a three-piece. It was interesting to see the bass player also being the lead singer. Their songs are dark and a little moody. They opened with “Disintegrate” and “Witching Hour,” and then played their latest hit, “Hex.” I particularly liked their closing song, “I’m Just the Driver,” and would encourage readers to check it out here.
Dorothy came on next, and I was especially excited because I’ve been playing her newest album, “The Way,” nonstop. The band came out, jamming hard for a couple of minutes before Dorothy emerged and belted the lyrics to “Down to the Bottom.” This band does a fantastic job blending hard rock with a bluesy swagger. That’s probably what draws me to them so much. Their setlist was a good mix from each of their albums, including songs like “Rest in Peace,” “Whiskey Fever,” “Mud,” and “The Devil I Know.” Dorothy Martin is a great performer, and it’s hard to take your eyes off her. The band closed their set strong with “Tombstone Town.”
Poppy was the wildcard of the night, bouncing between heavier tracks and songs with a more electronic edge. I’ve never cared for the doll-type act she does, and I didn’t know many of her songs, but by the third song of the set (which was her collaboration song with Bad Omens), she won me over. She puts on one heck of a show! Based on the crowd’s reaction, I’m guessing many of the thousands in attendance came just for her. From her opening song, “Have You Had Enough,” to her closer, “New Way Out,” she entertained us all with high-pitched singing, animalistic growls, smoke, and pyro. Poppy showed she’s connecting with people beyond just the music.
We all waited for Evanescence to take the stage, and when Amy Lee appeared, it was immediately apparent why she commands such a presence in a room. The band played a mix of songs from all of their albums. They played several from “The Bitter Truth,” such as “Wasted On You,” “Yeah Right,” and “Use My Voice,” as well as older tracks like “Call Me When You’re Sober,” “Going Under,” and “Imaginary.” It was a real treat to hear new tracks like “Afterlife” and “Fight Like a Girl.” Amy Lee is one of my favorite vocalists, and it truly amazes me how well she performs. Her powerful voice is almost always on pitch- something challenging to do live and especially with the range she sings at. They closed their set with “My Immortal” and “Bring Me to Life.” Incredible set. Incredible night. Thanks again, 93X!
(Evanescence did not approve or provide photos)
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