SEVENDUST

Prong @ The Troubadour

May 18, 2002

When I saw the blurb for an upcoming Prong show I didn’t believe it was THE Prong. A few weeks later I received the official announcement and I let out a big “Oh, hell yeah!” Obviously, many others felt the same way because the Troubadour was P-A-C-K-E-D when Prong returned to Los Angeles. How’s that for a warm reception?

The postings on the band’s website indicated that this was a must see event, so I was very excited to experience every moment first hand. The anticipation built as a couple hundred hardcore fans and myself waited for Prong to take the stage. The band went on a little later than expected, but all was forgiven once the show got rolling.

Tommy Victor’s flame red hair caught me by surprise. I was quite fond of his dark locks, but the red seems to fit his new, brighter outlook on life. Within minutes it was evident that Prong has gone back to its roots. Tonight it was all about the music, the fans, and having fun. Tommy held court on the right side of the stage—leaving the center to bassist Brian Perry, guitarist Monte Pittman, and drummer Dan Laudo. Tommy’s voice was in prime form and his bandmates exhibited a skillful knowledge of their instruments. One didn’t outshine the other. They were each equally talented and equally important. Their overall performance lent a fitting visual to the (blistering) sounds that emanated from the speakers.

True to form, energy reigned supreme and the smooth transition between songs kept the excitement flowing. Prong covered all aspects of their career and even threw in a few new tunes that proved the pioneering industrial rock act is ready to battle with current contenders. I forgot how heavy the old stuff was and how much I loved the Rude Awakening album. But, I have to admit that I was all about letting loose to “Snap Your Fingers, Snap Your Neck,” as were all the other fans and they proved it by kicking the mosh pit into overdrive.

Prong’s new line-up is solid and exhibits more energy and enthusiasm that past incarnation. Collectively they exuded a genuine love for performing in front of their audience. Prong came, they played, and they rocked!! Welcome back. -NIN