Pop Evil and Bad Wolves // Live @ Bogart’s // 11.6.24 -

Article and photos: Linda Carlson

Cincinnati, OH – Cincinnati’s Bogart’s entertained a crowd of rock and metal fans eager to rock to an evening with Pop Evil and Bad Wolves on their Animal Instinct Tour, with openers ONI and Sierra Pilot.

First on stage was ONI, a progressive metal band from Canada. The band put on a lively show with founder Jake Oni on vocals, supported by touring members Jared Dines (guitar), Eric Palmer (guitar), Nick Villarreal (bass) and Dylan Roy (drums).

Next up was Sierra Pilot, another Canadian band more than ready to deliver rock energy. The band brings life’s journeys and traumas to light through their music, including “Horizons,” an anthem sharing the story of lead singer Taylor Leith’s battle with addiction and ultimate redemption. The band is rounded out by Jay Thibault and Jason Holzscherer.

It was then time for Bad Wolves to take the stage. Bad Wolves has had its share of drama and lineup changes, and this was my first time experiencing a show without founding lead singer Tommy Vext. The current lineup now consists of Dan “DL” Laskiewicz (lead vocals), Doc Coyle (lead guitar), Kyle Konkiel (bass), AJ Rebollo (rhythm guitar), and John Boecklin (drums).

The Bad Wolves performance was well-received by the crowd (but better lighting, please!). However, there was a noticeably different feel compared to the previous lineup. Without Vext baring his intensely raw emotions in “Sober,” the song felt more performative and less personal. Similarly, the closing anthem, “Zombie,” lacked the same dynamic highs and poignant lows.

It’s no easy task to replace an iconic lead singer. That said, a band evolves over time, and it’s expected that Bad Wolves will continue to do so with Laskiewicz at the helm. As they release new music, Laskiewicz will bring his own persona, style, and influence to the songs, introducing fresh stories and energy that will help redefine the band.

Pop Evil closed the night with amazing force. Frontman Leah Kataky was joined by Dave Grahs (rhythm guitar), Nick Fueling (lead guitar), Joey Walser (bass), and Blake Allison (drums). The performance was visually electrifying, enhanced by tight staccato light bursts and industrial-themed projections on the venue’s side walls. The band members powerfully commanded the stage, moving between elevated platforms, ensuring nothing felt stagnant.

Notably, the performance took place the day after the 2024 Presidential election, a time when emotions were high, and division ran deep. Kataky acknowledged the election but assured the audience he had no intention of getting political. Instead, he emphasized that songs unite us and help us forget our differences.

Among the powerful rock anthems were mellower moments, such as “Torn to Pieces” and a graceful acoustic rendition of “100 in a 55.” Of course, the raging rock energy soon returned to close the set with vigor.

Their full set follows…