
April 11, 2005
Black Label Society has some of the most enthusiastic and dedicated fans on the planet. They came out in force for a show which had been sold out for months.
Sweden's Meldrum kicked things off with their brand of very heavy melodic hard rock. It's tuff to open for a crowd that is 99.9% there to see Zakk and BLS, but they were not deterred and put in a first class effort. The crowd, despite being restless for Zakk, was still appreciative.
Meldrum frontwoman Moa Holmsten had a great stage presence coupled with a powerful voice.
This estrogen laden quartet could flat play! They were also very appreciative to Zakk for giving them the exposure to US audiences. The serious Swedish heavy hitters are due later this month in the form of Soilwork, Dark Tranquillity and Hypocrisy, none of whom would be confused with a rock band.

This good looking group of young metal heads from Manassas were front row for Zakk. When offered ear plugs, they promptly declined and stated - "Man, this is our fourth time!" Thank God some of the new generation are not being weaned on the likes of Limp Bizkit.
Hells Angels usually provide sufficient protection from unwise stage rushers. (Just kidding - Zakk has a diverse fan base and this gentleman was enjoying the show with the rest of us.)
Zakk demonstrated his flash, style and prodigious talent all night long.
PBR's with Heineken chasers keep the fingers lubed.
It was loud and fun all night. BLS played their latest hit "Suicide Messiah" fresh from the new Mafia release.
The Mafia themed drum kit was a nice touch.
That's not Coca Cola! You didn't think they'd work for just money did you!
"Counterfeit God" from 2000's Stronger Than Death was instantly recognizable and cheered wildly.
An acoustic interlude was well received and a welcome respite from the sonic bombardment.
The crowd could simply not get enough of Zakk and Gang. Despite playing for over two hours and past midnight, very few left.
Here are a couple of hi resolution photos taken by Jaxx Night Club House Photographer - Susan Bardenhagen - enjoy! Thanks Susan - spectacular shots!
A Black Label Society show at Jaxx always draws a unique and fun crowd. This show was sold out for over two months and was the smallest club Zakk was playing on his current tour. Jaxx management would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Zakks manager, Bob Ring, for making this show happen. \m/
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Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society), Alexi Laiho
(Children of Bodom) and Steve Vai have all made the cover of the latest
issue of
Guitar World
as part of the new breed of super shredder axe men
currently making waves in the music world. Zakk will soon be
appearing at Jaxx where an admiring audience will view his
virtuosity first hand. Children of Bodom played Jaxx recently and
many witnessed Alexi Laiho's undeniable skill and energetic stage antics.
Finnish mates Amorphis, Sonata Arctica and Stratovarius are all scheduled
to appear at Jaxx this year.
First Review of Black Label Society's new release: "Mafia" at Ultimate Metal reviews with sample MP3