Odin's Court Encompass Black Widow ENGAGE Burning Shadows
February 19, 2005
Jack Frost mugs for a shot during Seven Witches pre-show sound check. They took the time to make sure everything sounded perfect and it paid off later.
The band strike a pre-show pose in the lobby.
Burning Shadows kicked things off with a hybrid melodic power-death-thrash sound that was very entertaining. Front man Greg Jones displayed his guitar skills with some intricate and melodic solos. Watch out for this band as they mature - the talent is there! Their set included a well executed cover of Death's "Crystal Mountain".
Engage came next and demonstrated ample skill while delivering a solid power metal attack. Their cover of Iron Maiden's "Hallowed Be Thy Name" was a highlight of the evening and drew a rousing applause and an appreciative comment later in the evening by Seven Witches front man James Rivera.
Jesse and Staci (both from Alexandria) were among the many Engage fans.
Black Widow appeared from the fog and soon made their presence heard and felt!
Delivering a pummeling dark thrash sound, Black Widow were an evening standout among a group of fine bands. They were loud, tight and very professional. Local talent does not get any better than this!
Aileen, Jordan and Tracie were among the many Black Widow fans.
Encompass were the first true progressive band of the evening and demonstrated their remarkable playing skills with some very catchy songs. The keyboard interludes were fantastic and really added to their unique atmosphere.
Odin's Court were another progressive band but with a much heavier style than Encompass. This band had many fans and it was easy to see and hear why. Crushing guitar melodies and interwoven keyboard touches gave them a distinctive and very loud sound.
Energy was abundant during their performance and they were clearly having fun.
Lori and Mike drove all the way from St Mary's County, MD to see Odin's Court. They had a great time and wisely secured nearby accommodations.
Seven Witches hit the stage running and firing on all cylinders. Showing no evidence of fatigue at the end of a long tour, their enthusiasm was infectious.
Jack Frost demonstrates his prodigious guitar talents while showing where his hockey allegiances lie. He commented on the NHL labor woes and encouraged the Washington Caps fans to hang in there.
Lead Vocalist James Rivera remarked that the local talent on display at Jaxx this night was the finest he'd seen on their whole tour. Jaxx is keeping metal alive and well in the DC area.
Tracee, girlfriend of James Rivera, worked the Seven Witches merchandise counter.
The crowd wanted more and they got it. After an extended set featuring many Seven Witches classics and a handful of tracks from their latest release, "Year of The Witch", the band finished the evening with a Judas Priest tribute. Included was a short excerpt from the classic track, "Victim of Changes" (complete with the Rob Halford style trademark scream) and evening closer, "Diamonds and Rust". (which of course was originally a Joan Baez song)
Wow !!! 2005 is off to a great start! Metal is alive and well in Northern Virginia. Let's keep the flame burning and Jaxx thanks everyone for their continued support.
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