Article and photos by: Wendy Podmenik Darugar
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA– The music industry as a whole has been negatively impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, with issues ranging from loss of income streams to the danger of musicians being exposed to possibly infectious individuals in packed venues. It has been a long 18 months of closures already, and while we are all wishing to head back to normalcy at some point, there have been a few stumbling blocks along the way. Among those stumbling blocks are bands attempting to restart tours and having to cancel or postpone dates due to positive cases within their camp. Pop Evil recently made the news with vocalist Leigh Kakaty being diagnosed positive with the virus. As a result, the band took some necessary time off and either cancelled or postponed several dates on the current “Versatile” tour promoting their sixth studio album.
Elevation 27 in Virginia Beach proudly hosted Pop Evil in their return to the stage, with all members looking healthy and happy to be back on the road and in front of their fans. Opening bands Brkn Love and Zero 9:36 were an interesting commentary of sorts on music today as it constantly evolves; Brkn Love being a throwback to a classic rock sound and Zero 9:36 part of a new genre, rap with elements of electronica. In spite of the differences, the audience was consistently and evenly enthusiastic for both bands, giving the impression that they were there for the openers as much as they were there to enjoy Pop Evil.
Pop Evil’s set list was a nice mix of samples from several albums, hit-heavy and working 4 new singles from Versatile into the mix. As a surprise bonus, a little bit of Metallica made it into the evening too. Leigh Kakaty took pause before starting “Survivor” by speaking to the audience about his recent experience with Covid, and he managed to give a personal commentary that was encouraging yet never turned political, which was impressive in today’s charged atmosphere. And at the end of the day, it’s all about making smart choices and wishing the best for one and all.
With the world shut down, some things may have been put on pause, but creativity was not one of them. Current situations and tribulations lent some insight and influence on Pop Evil’s recent work, but overall, Pop Evil has stayed true to their unique sound on Versatile.
Back on the road and ready to rock you, here are some upcoming tour dates, with three festivals:
Saturday September 4- Rocklahoma, Pryor, OK
Wednesday September 8- Detroit, MI
Thursday September 9- Flint, MI
Friday September 10- Harrisburg, PA
Saturday September 11- Inkcarceration, Mansfield OH
Sunday September 12- Blue Ridge Rock Festival, Danville, VA
The tour extends through early October, please check out their website for upcoming dates and the newest album.