Author and Photographer: Catherine Patchell

This past Friday, December 15th, marked the final show for Vanna. The sold-out show was held at The Palladium in Worcester, MA, a venue that the band played countless times throughout their career. Vanna is known for putting on an explosive, high-energy show, but for this final one, they outdid themselves. 

Supporting Vanna on the Main Stage for their farewell show included Actor | Observer, Currents, Lions Lions, Like Pacific, Knocked Loose, and Eighteen Visions (yeah, that's right, they're back). But one stage was not enough space for the massive celebration, so the Upstairs of the Palladium was open as well to house an additional set of talent. This included Roseview, Sharptooth, END, Kublai Khan, On Broken Wings, and Old Wounds. Ever since I was first introduced to Vanna, I have seen them constantly work to build up the scene and promote an inclusive environment for everyone. It was no surprise to hear Davey Muise (vocals) note during their set that they had handpicked the lineup and brought together a group of bands that they fully endorsed to help celebrate that night.

The hour and a half set was no less than an emotional rollercoaster filled with an extensive set list spanning the band's lengthy discography. Lining the left and right sides of the stage, friends and family stood close by for the entire show. It wasn't long into the set that it became apparent that this show was about to turn into an even larger family affair. The plot twist of the night (which Vanna successfully kept under wraps for the weeks leading up to the show) was that ALL THREE generations of Vanna lead vocalists would be taking to the mic alongside former guitarists and drummers.

Chris Preece was the first to surprise the audience and was greeted with a roaring round of cheers as he emerged onto the stage. As a few more songs were played more and more former members cycled into the set - original lead vocalist Joe Bragel, lead guitarist/clean vocalist Evan Pharmakis, drummers Brandon Davis and Eric Gross. I can not have imagined a better way to have celebrated the Vanna family and music they created over the years. 

As an emotional Muise said "Thank You, Goodnight" to the crowd for the last time, many were left with a hole in their hearts. Though Friday marked an end to Vanna, the impact they have had on so many will not be forgotten.

Thank YOU - Goodnight, Vanna.

Author and Photographer: Ian Urquhart

​On December 1st, 2017, the Poison the Parish Tour made its way to the Worcester Palladium. Lined up for the evening’s entertainment included The Dead Deads, Shaman’s Harvest and the main event: Seether.
 
Surrounded by extraterrestrial decor, The Dead Deads set the stage to greet the Massachusetts friendly. Immediately, the “x” marked eyes were spotted on each band member. In fact, there were fans in the crowd found to be marked the same. Primarily found jamming in Tennessee, these Nashville rockers brought growls and unique time signatures to the table. Striking similarities could be found when considering the signature style of the Pixies. However, hints of punk-rock and metal were also noticeable as “Super Tiny” off of Flying Saucers (2017) was performed. Overall, The Dead Deads brought fire. There was nothing but positive energy on stage from beginning to end.
 
Ominously situated at stage front, a lone mountain goat-skull guided the way for Shaman’s Harvest. Immediately, the Worcester Palladium’s atmosphere molted into a Midwestern “shindig.” By no means could Shaman’s Harvest be considered a country rock band. However, a pinch of southern flavor had certainly been added to the hard-rock vibes these Missouri natives were giving off. An overwhelming response to their concluding song, “Dragon Fly” off of Shine (2009) could be felt with the crowd finishing the ending verse. Do not let the cowboy hats, boots and drawl sway you, these gentlemen know how to rock and put on a show.
 
Completing the evening, Seether lit the stage on fire with gasoline. Pumping their set off with a bang, “Gasoline” off of Fragile (2000), ignited many fans (primarily of the ages thirty and older) to rock out like they were back in high school. An impressive light display illuminated the stage while the Seether faithful belted out numbers such as “Driven Under” off of Fragile (2000) and “Rise Above This” off of Finding Beauty in Negative Spaces (2007). What was equally as impressive was Seether’s ability to go from hard rock, fast paced and heavy hitting riffs to the soft melodies found in the ever popular “Broken” track off of Disclaimer (2004). To no surprise, the hit of the night was Seether’s 2007 single “Fake It” off of Finding Beauty in Negative Spaces (2007). It’s always a pleasure being able to witness legends playing their favorite tracks for those who want to listen. The Poison the Parish Tour is certainly jammed packed with rock-loaded talent. If possible, check it out. You’ll thank yourself!