Photos and Review by Raven Divito
@rockinshots

The atmosphere at the Golden 1 Center was electric as fans gathered to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Disturbed’s groundbreaking debut album, The Sickness, released in 2000. 

The anticipation of the sold-out crowd was high, with a diverse mix of longtime fans and newcomers eager to relive the raw energy and emotion that the band is known for.

Nothing More and Daughtry ignited the intensity, as both bands delivered stellar performances opening up the show. 

The volcano was primed, and with the iconic opening notes of “Voices” echoing through the arena, the crowd erupted into a frenzy as vocalist David Draiman was wheeled out in a Hannibal Lecter-style straitjacket, eliciting wild cheers from the metalhead audience. He escaped bondage, and the band launched into the opening track, igniting the night with powerful energy. Fans were singing along to every word, rapping and screaming in unison.

The setlist was a perfect blend of classic tracks from The Sickness, including “Stupify,” “The Game,” and “Down with the Sickness,” played in album order, which brought back memories of the initial CD experience. Side A of the album has remained a staple in their live shows, and hearing these songs live was exceptional. Side B offered a deeper dive, with Draiman’s distinctive scampering-style vocals shining on songs like “Violence Fetish,” “Fear,” and “Conflict.” These deeper cuts created a nostalgic flashback for older fans and a fresh, exhilarating experience for newer audiences.

The band’s tight instrumentation and Draiman’s commanding stage presence kept the energy high throughout the night. The impressive stage production featured dynamic lighting and visuals that perfectly complemented the music’s intensity. Draiman engaged with the crowd, encouraging sing-alongs and fostering a sense of unity. Mosh pits formed, and fans passionately sang every lyric, creating an infectious atmosphere.

Midway through the concert, the band took a heartfelt moment to reflect on the impact of The Sickness and its themes of struggle and resilience, resonating deeply with attendees. Following this, the band delivered a thunderous performance of “Numb,” which was met with applause and cheers.

A short intermission led into a “Best Of” set from other albums, with favorites like “Bad Man,” “Indestructible,” and “I Will Not Break.” The second half of the show ramped up the intensity, with raging pyrotechnics igniting on the first song after the break and continuing nonstop until the final note. The stage was ablaze with fire and light, heightening the adrenaline rush.

The night concluded with a powerful encore, leaving fans exhilarated and renewed in their appreciation for the band’s enduring legacy with “The Light” and “Inside the Fire.”

Overall, the concert was a celebration of Disturbed’s impact and evolution over 25 years. The 25th anniversary of The Sickness was not just a nostalgic trip but a testament to their influence on the rock and metal scene, solidifying their connection with fans across generations. As the final notes faded and the lights came up, fans departed the Golden 1 Center with a renewed sense of admiration for the music that has shaped their lives.

For up-to-date tour information and news, visit Disturbed’s official website at disturbed1.com