Less seasoned performers might have been freaked outwhen the tractor-trailer carrying their sound equipment from St Louis to Indianapolis caught on fire, but Rob Zombie, John 5, Piggy D, Ginger Fish, and their crew just rolled with it. These masters of the macabre and theatric pulled off a KILLER show at the packed Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville during the second stop for the Freaks on Parade Tour.
Although I’m sure they were frustrated by the whole ordeal (see my recap article here:https://www.audiophileoholic.com/post/recap-freaks-on-parade-tour-at-ruoff-music-center-july-21-2022-photos-and-review-by-laura-fox), they channeled all their energy into 12-song set that was full of swagger, groovy graphics, giant creatures, and head-banging fun.
Rob Zombie, of course, was a mass of flying hair, beard, and fringe as he belted out lyrics and danced his way across the multi-level stage. His energy fueled the band,as well as the crowd, all evening.
Guitarist John 5 was in especially fine form as he calmly and gracefully played extremely complicated riffs with incredible ease. Every time I see him, I appreciate his skills and stage presence more. I don’t remember him doing the drooling thing before, but that was pretty entertaining to watch, too! (Apologies to those of you who have older brothers and are experiencing flashbacks.)
Bassist Piggy D was an imposing sight in his signature striped pants and a super-creepy mask that reminded me of a Gremlin from the 80s movie by the same name. I personally I was glad when he removed it. His face is full of expression when he plays, which you just can’t see when he’s wearing the mask. I love watching him doing what he loves!
Drummer Ginger Fish doesn’t attract a lot of attention from behind the drum kit, but he skillfully provides the backbone for Zombie’s tunes. I think that’s part of what makes them all so danceable. He had a smile on his face the whole night –you could tell he was having a good ol’ time.
Fans who stayed for the entire set received a special reward for their loyalty and patience when Powerman5000 and Static-X joined forces on stage for a couple of songs. (https://www.audiophileoholic.com/post/recap-freaks-on-parade-tour-at-ruoff-music-center-july-21-2022-photos-and-review-by-laura-fox.) It was the highlight of the night for me – what an amazing thing to experience all these powerful, talented musicians on the same stage.
You can (and should) catch Rob Zombie and Mudvayne, along with Powerman 5000 and Static-X, on the Freaks on Parade Tour through October 2022. For more information and tickets, click here: