Article and photos by: Wendy Podmenik Darugar

NORFOLK, VA: Sevendust and a slew of metal/ rock bands held another sold out show at the NorVA, which made for an intense evening of music that hit the spot for attendees suffering from the winter blahs. Originally slated to co-headline with Clutch in Norfolk last year, Sevendust had to reschedule their visit, and the demand was certainly there.

Emerging from Athens GA, opening band Lullwater brought their heartfelt brand of music sonically inspired by 90’s alt greats and personalized with lyrics that delved into the band’s collective experiences with not only their own relationships but also the trials of dealing with the music industry. Cane Hill followed with a moody and intense set that took the night into a deeper, darker place.

Tremonti, featuring guitarist/vocalist Mark Tremonti of Alter Bridge and formerly of Creed, started off with “Cauterize,” off of his 2015 album. Their nine song set list touched bases with all four of their studio albums, with “Flying Monkeys” and “A Dying Machine,” culminating with a shot of speed metal in “Wish You Well.”

Sevendust took the stage amid geysers of fog and cheers from the crowd, vocalist Lajon Witherspoon showing love and appreciation back to the audience. Well known in the metal scene for his soulful delivery and his friendly personality, Lajon made frequent eye contact and engaged fans throughout the show. Sevendust cruised through several of their hit singles such as “Pieces,” “Dirty,” “Thank You,” and the two song encore ended with one of the singles from their forth studio album Seasons, “Face to Face.” The tour is supporting latest work All I See is War, the twelfth studio album of a prolific and successful career. For upcoming tour dates, check the link:

https://sevendust.com/