HICKORY, N.C. — For the second straight year, I had the privilege of attending and helping behind the scenes at Breaking Darkness Music Festival, and once again it proved why this has become one of my favorite events of the year. Hosted at The Hickory Premier, the festival is much more than a concert. It is a place where heavy music fans gather to worship, encourage one another, and build lasting friendships centered on Christ.

Founded and organized by Seth Olsen of Counter, Breaking Darkness exists to promote unity, fellowship, hope, and redemption while raising support for Christian outreach and addiction recovery organizations. Every ticket sold helps fund ministries making a real difference in people’s lives. This year, Glenn Remsen served as the festival’s emcee, keeping the day moving with enthusiasm while engaging the crowd between performances.

My sons, Leo and Max, joined me again this year, making it another memorable family experience. We arrived early Saturday morning to help unload equipment, assist bands with load-in, and prepare the venue before the doors opened. It turned into a long day, but one filled with great music, amazing people, and plenty of unforgettable moments.

This year also marked an exciting partnership between SoundLink Magazine and Breaking Darkness. Our team was on site throughout the day, with Josh Lowe and Trenton Worsham filming performances and capturing behind-the-scenes moments. SoundLink also partnered with the festival and Cody Fields of Westminster Effects, who also plays in Igniting the Sky, to create one of the coolest raffles I have ever seen. The grand prize featured a custom skateboard displaying the official Breaking Darkness artwork, signed by every band on the lineup, along with a custom Westminster Effects guitar pedal engraved with the words “Jesus Is King.” It was a perfect representation of what this festival is all about.

Between sets, fans had plenty to enjoy beyond the music. This year’s food trucks served fresh pizza, loaded fries, chicken wings, and coffee throughout the day. Combined with vendors, giveaways, and conversations happening all over the venue, there was never a dull moment.

Opening the festival was North Carolina pop-punk band Splitcast, who proved to be the perfect choice to kick off the day. Their energetic set immediately got the crowd moving and set the tone for everything that followed. It was great seeing them back after several years of inactivity. Their bassist made the trip from France to reunite with the band for the festival, making the performance even more special.

One of my favorite performances came from Autumn Eve. Her energetic stage presence and genuine love for her fans are impossible to miss. Beyond delivering a fantastic rock performance, she continues to advocate for emotional health through songs like “You Matter,” a message that undoubtedly resonates with many listeners. Festival moments like this often produce unexpected surprises, and one of the highlights was seeing Jermaine and Matt Sassano join her on stage for a song that had the audience cheering.

Returning to Breaking Darkness, Counter once again brought one of the most entertaining sets of the day. Their self-described “sugarcore” sound combines catchy pop vocal hooks with crushing metalcore guitars, creating one of the most unique sounds on the bill. Their performance was simply fun from start to finish, and the crowd fed off every minute of it.

Billy James was an outstanding addition to this year’s lineup. The local rapper completely changed the atmosphere in the best way possible. Rather than performing over backing tracks, he brought a full live band featuring keyboards, drums, two guitarists, bass, and a hype man. His incredible talent quickly won over a crowd made up largely of rock and metal fans. Whether delivering rapid-fire bars or leading worship, Billy proved that praising King Jesus transcends musical genres.

Matt Sassano brought a real authenticity to the stage with his Linkin Park influenced rock sound. He delivered an excellent cover of Linkin Park’s “In the End,” while songs like “Dear God” and the new fan favorite “Fuel” were among the highlights of his set. Wearing his custom Him Not My Name jacket, Sassano closed with the powerful song of the same name. I was honored to film his entire performance for a future live release.

The biggest surprise of the festival for me was Irae. Their brand of worshipful hardcore, often referred to as Christcore, created one of the day’s most memorable moments. Before taking the stage, a worship song filled the venue while vocalist Kashif knelt in prayer behind the stage. When the band exploded into their opening song, the energy shifted instantly. Kashif wasted no time pulling the crowd closer, encouraging movement, and creating the first mosh pit of the day. Their passion for Christ matched the intensity of their music, making them a band everyone should keep an eye on. One of my favorite memories happened during Irae’s set as my son Leo and Jermaine’s son Keighan ran through the pit together.

Returning after last year’s festival, Tricord once again delivered an outstanding performance. Their musicianship is exceptional, but what continues to impress me most is who they are off the stage. Throughout the day they could be found talking with fans, supporting every other band, and simply enjoying the festival alongside everyone else. During their set, vocalist Jermaine proudly wore his homemade jacket with “Born to Be a King” across the back, a tribute to one of the band’s fan-favorite songs. It’s little details like that, along with the band’s genuine love for people, that make Tricord a favorite every time they take the stage.

XIII Minutes continued the momentum with their signature hard rock sound. Their performance was every bit as tight as expected, showcasing just how talented each member is as a musician. We also enjoyed spending time with the band throughout the day, making the performance feel even more personal. A standout moment came when Matt Sassano joined them on stage to perform one of their biggest songs, “Cult Leader,” drawing another huge response from the audience.

Although Relentless Flood has been around for years, this was my first opportunity to experience them live. I’m glad I finally did. Their combination of melodic hard rock and infectious energy quickly made me a fan. The crowd sang along throughout the set, and I enjoyed it enough to pick up their newest EP before leaving.

One thing that stood out this year was the attendance. The venue filled much earlier than it did in 2025, a great sign that the festival continues to grow.

This is more than a festival. It has become a family reunion for the Christian rock and metal community. Fans traveled from multiple states not only to see their favorite bands but also to reconnect with friends they have made through festivals like this. Throughout the day, musicians could be found watching each other’s sets, talking with fans, taking photos, praying together, and supporting one another. That sense of community is what makes Breaking Darkness unlike any other festival I have attended. You don’t leave feeling like you just went to a concert. You leave feeling like you’ve spent the day with family.

Headliners Convictions closed the festival exactly as expected. There is a reason fans drove from states like Pennsylvania and Virginia just to see them. Their musicianship is among the best in today’s metalcore scene, and their live performance is absolutely relentless. Frontman Michael Felker commands both the stage and the audience with confidence that only comes from years of experience. Standout moments included crushing performances of “Hurts Like Hell” and the fan favorite “Hurricane.” The band closed with “Metanoia,” creating one of the most powerful moments of the entire festival. As the song reached its climax, the crowd joined together in one voice, passionately shouting, “I am made in the image of God.” It was far more than crowd participation. It became an act of worship and a bold declaration of identity in Christ, providing the perfect musical conclusion to a festival centered on the Gospel.

One moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the festival happened after the show when Kashif from Irae sat down and patiently answered question after question from my 10-year-old son. It wasn’t a quick autograph or photo opportunity. He genuinely invested time in a young fan, and those moments leave a lasting impression far beyond the music.

Before wrapping up, I want to thank Seth Olsen, Glenn Remsen, their families, the volunteers, stage crew, and everyone who worked behind the scenes. Festivals like this don’t happen without countless hours of planning and hard work. From load-in early that morning until the last trailer was packed, everything came together because of people who willingly served.

As the final notes of “Metanoia” faded away, Kashif stepped forward and delivered a passionate message reminding everyone that Jesus Christ and the Gospel are for anyone willing to call on His name. It was the perfect conclusion to a day built on incredible music, authentic community, and the hope found in Christ.

Breaking Darkness is not just another music festival. It is a reminder that heavy music can build community, strengthen believers, and introduce people to Jesus. Whether you came for the breakdowns, the fellowship, or the message of hope, Breaking Darkness delivered on every level. If you have never experienced it for yourself, make plans now to be there next year.

Resurrection Fest Makes Its South Carolina Debut This August

A new chapter for Christian heavy music is about to begin in the Upstate. Resurrection Fest will make its South Carolina debut on Friday, August 29, bringing together four Christian rock and metal artists for an evening of powerful music, worship, and hope at Resurrection Church in Greer.

Presented by Resurrection Records, the inaugural event showcases a lineup that reflects the diversity of today’s Christian rock and metal scene while sharing one common purpose: pointing people to Jesus Christ through music.

Headlining the night is Tricord, the South Georgia alternative nu-metal and rapcore band known for combining heavy riffs with transparent lyrics about addiction, anxiety, depression, and finding hope in Christ. Their music is both aggressive and deeply personal, connecting with listeners who have faced life’s darkest moments while reminding them they are never alone.

Joining them is Brent Tatum, a singer, songwriter, and worship leader from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Blending contemporary Christian music with rock, Tatum’s songs focus on faith, hope, and pursuing God’s calling, offering a worshipful and encouraging contrast to the heavier acts on the bill.

Charleston-based Ziggie and the Suffering Gift delivers heartfelt rock born from real-life struggles and redemption. Formed by lifelong friends who have endured life’s trials together, the band writes music intended to inspire, uplift, and remind people that healing and hope are always within reach.

Representing the Upstate is Igniting the Sky, Greenville’s own post-hardcore powerhouse. Known for explosive live performances, the band balances crushing breakdowns with soaring melodies and brutally honest lyrics that challenge, encourage, and point listeners toward Christ.

As the first Resurrection Fest in South Carolina, organizers hope the event becomes more than just another concert. The vision is to create a place where music, ministry, and community come together, giving fans an opportunity to discover new artists, encourage one another, and celebrate their faith through powerful live performances.

With tickets priced at just $10 at the door, Resurrection Fest is an affordable opportunity for longtime fans of Christian rock and metal as well as anyone looking to experience a night of music with a message of hope.

Event Information

Resurrection Fest
Friday, August 29, 2026

Doors: 6:30 PM
Show: 7:00 PM

Resurrection Church
900 N. Main St.
Greer, SC

Admission: $10 at the door

Learn More

Discover more about the artists on the Resurrection Records roster:
https://resurrectionrecordsofficial.com/artists

Listen to Igniting the Sky’s latest single, “There Are Four Lights,” here:
https://ignitingthesky.bandcamp.com/track/there-are-four-lights

Fans of Christian rock and metal have a rare opportunity this month as Fear Not headlines a special night of music at Hop Springs Beer Park in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on Friday, August 15. Presented by Anchor Events and Hop Springs, the concert also features legendary Christian metal band Whitecross, along with Applehead and Devin Williams.

Fear Not first emerged in the early 1990s with the support of acclaimed producers John and Dino Elefante, releasing their self-titled debut on Pakaderm Records. Over the years, the band has built a loyal following through powerful songwriting, memorable performances, and lyrics centered on hope, perseverance, and faith. More than three decades later, Fear Not continues to write, record, and perform, proving their music still resonates with longtime fans and new listeners alike.

Also appearing is Whitecross, one of the most influential Christian metal bands of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Formed in Illinois in 1985 by guitarist Rex Carroll, Whitecross earned three Dove Awards and became known for Carroll’s blazing guitar work and songs like In the Kingdom, No Second Chances, and We Know What’s Right. The band remains a favorite among classic Christian metal fans and continues to deliver the signature musicianship that made them legends.

Applehead, the long-running project of guitarist Greg Minier, brings another legendary name to the lineup. Best known for his work with thrash pioneers The Crucified, Minier originally launched Applehead in 1992 before returning with new music in recent years. The project blends groove metal, classic heavy metal, and thoughtful lyrics into a fresh modern sound while honoring its roots.

Rounding out the bill is Devin Williams, a Billboard-charting Christian rock artist and worship pastor whose music combines melodic rock with messages of faith, hope, and perseverance. Williams has shared stages with artists including Fireflight while continuing to encourage audiences through both his music and personal testimony.

Fans looking for an enhanced experience can purchase a $55 Early Entry Meet & Greet ticket, which includes early admission and a special performance. General admission tickets are $25.

With four artists representing different eras and styles of Christian rock and metal, this promises to be a memorable evening for fans of faith-based rock, from classic metal to modern worship-infused rock.

Event Details

Date: Friday, August 15
Venue: Hop Springs Beer Park
Address: 6790 John Bragg Hwy, Murfreesboro, TN 37127

Featuring:

• Fear Not
• Whitecross
• Applehead
• Devin Williams

Tickets: https://anchormerchandising.com/store/fearnotconcert7/

There is something special about watching a hometown crowd rally around a band they love, and that’s exactly what happened when Islander headlined Radio Room in Greenville on August 2. While the venue wasn’t packed when doors opened, fans steadily filled the room throughout the evening, creating an atmosphere that grew louder and more energetic with every set.

Opening the night was Grave Hunter, a hardcore band making their first appearance at Radio Room. The band mentioned it was their first time playing the Greenville venue, and they made the most of the opportunity with an energetic set that got the early crowd moving and set the tone for the night.

Next up was Chrrry Vanilla, delivering a fast-paced hardcore punk performance. Before taking the stage, they shared that this would be their final show in South Carolina, giving local fans one last chance to catch them live in the state.

Greenville’s own Wiltwither followed with a crushing metalcore set. As the hometown band on the bill, they had plenty of supporters in attendance, and the crowd responded enthusiastically throughout their performance. It’s always encouraging to see local bands receive that kind of support from their community.

One of my favorite sights of the evening was seeing members of HeartSupport in attendance, connecting with fans and continuing their mission of bringing hope and mental health awareness to the heavy music community. If you’re unfamiliar with their work, I encourage you to check them out at https://www.heartsupport.com/. Organizations like HeartSupport have become an important part of the heavy music scene, reminding everyone that these concerts are about more than just music.

By the time Islander took the stage, Radio Room had filled in nicely and the anticipation was obvious. Frontman Mikey Carvajal once again wore his signature skull-inspired face paint and immediately had the audience in the palm of his hand. From the opening moments, the energy inside the venue reached another level.

The band’s performance of “Coconut Dracula” had nearly everyone singing along, proving once again why it has become one of their signature live songs. When they launched into their newest single, “Dead Youth,” the room absolutely erupted. The breakdown hit with incredible force, the pit exploded into motion, and the crowd responded with nonstop energy from start to finish. It was easily one of the highlights of the evening.

Perhaps the most memorable moment came between songs when Mikey shared a story about meeting two kids at a local restaurant. They had told him they were attending their very first concert to see a band called Islander, never realizing they were talking to the band’s vocalist. During the set, Mikey invited both of them onto the stage. Before they jumped, he asked the audience to tighten together so they could safely experience their first stage dive and crowd surf. The crowd embraced the moment, giving the two young fans an unforgettable first concert experience.

Moments like that perfectly capture what makes Islander stand apart. The band doesn’t simply perform for their audience. They create experiences with them. Their genuine care for their fans is evident every time they take the stage, and the fans respond with that same passion. On this night, the Greenville crowd absolutely showed up and showed out.

One of the best parts of covering concerts is reconnecting with friends who share the same passion for live music. It was great seeing Joshua Gilmore, Jody Jennings, Isaac Phillips, and Jacob Mullikin. We’ve experienced many Islander shows together over the years, and nights like this remind me how close-knit the heavy music community really is.

I also had the privilege of working with Trenton Worsham and Josh Lowe for SoundLink Magazine to film Islander’s entire set. Working behind the cameras provided another perspective on just how much energy the band pours into every song.

From the first breakdown of the evening to the final crowd surf, this was another memorable night for Greenville’s heavy music scene. Every band brought something different to the stage, the audience fed off every performance, and Islander once again proved why they remain one of the most exciting live bands in heavy music today. Radio Room continues to be one of the Upstate’s premier venues for heavy music, and nights like this are exactly why fans keep coming back.

Be sure to watch the full performance and our exclusive interview with Islander on SoundLinkTV.

For More Information

HeartSupport
https://www.heartsupport.com/

Islander
https://www.islanderband.com/

Radio Room
https://www.radioroomgreenville.com/

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The Radio Room in Greenville, SC, hosted an incredible night of heavy music as Maylene and the Sons of Disaster kicked off their summer tour alongside Atomic Rule, Across Five Aprils, New Rituals, and local openers Reviler.

The crowd grew throughout the night, and by the time Across Five Aprils hit the stage, the room was packed. It was my first time seeing all five bands, and each one brought something different to the lineup.

Greenville’s own Reviler got things started with a solid hometown performance. New Rituals followed with a strong hardcore set, and it was fun seeing Josh Scogin in the crowd supporting the band.

Across Five Aprils proved they haven’t lost a step. Steve Taylor joked that the band only plays a few shows each year and called their music “hardcore adjacent,” but they sounded great. One of the coolest moments of the night came when the band discovered it was a six-year-old fan’s birthday. The crowd wished him a happy birthday before helping him experience his first crowd surf in a safe way.

The biggest surprise for me was Atomic Rule. Their sludgy, groove-heavy sound immediately got the crowd moving with the first pit and crowd surfers of the night. Featuring former Every Time I Die guitarist Andy Williams, the band was incredibly tight and definitely earned some new fans.

Then came Maylene and the Sons of Disaster. Dallas Taylor still brings an unbelievable amount of energy to the stage, and every member of the band looked like they were having the time of their lives. The crowd responded with nonstop singing, pits, and crowd surfing throughout the set.

The best moment may have happened after the show. Dallas Taylor stayed to meet fans, take pictures, and spend time with everyone, especially the kids. It’s always encouraging to see artists invest in the people who support them.

Overall, this was an outstanding way to kick off the tour. Great bands, a great crowd, and another reminder of why the heavy music community continues to be one of the best around.

Following the release of Trials and Tribulations, Evan Ryan Canady returns with Providence, an eight song album that boldly places Scripture at the center of its message. Combining heavy guitars, soaring melodies, and thoughtful songwriting, this release offers more than just another metal record. It is a collection of songs rooted in biblical truth and personal faith.

The album artwork immediately captures the eye. A lone tree stands in the middle of a barren desert beneath a brilliant night sky. While open to interpretation, it beautifully reflects the album’s title. Even in the driest places, God can bring life and hope.

The opening instrumental, On the Road to Damascus, wastes no time showcasing Evan Ryan Canady’s impressive guitar work. Following a solid drum introduction, soaring guitar melodies blend seamlessly with a tasteful piano section, creating a powerful beginning that sets the tone for the rest of the album.

The biblical themes continue throughout the record. Rise Before the Fall calls listeners to repentance with the challenge to “tear down the wall of immorality” while the addition of female background vocals and spoken passages adds depth to an already powerful song. Return of the King features crushing guitar riffs, creative time changes, and one of the album’s strongest lyrical moments as it speaks of walking with the Spirit while carrying the sword and shield of God.

The title track reminds listeners that God’s plan is often beyond our understanding. Its memorable guitar solo and encouraging message to “trust in providence” become the spiritual centerpiece of the album.

One of the record’s most emotional moments comes with The Life I’m Meant to Lead, a song addressing domestic violence while drawing inspiration from James 1:6 and Matthew 5:4. The Storm on the Sea of Galilee revisits Christ calming the storm from Mark 4, challenging believers with the timeless question, “Oh ye of little faith, why are you afraid?”

Closing tracks Alleluia and Sons of Perdition continue exploring biblical themes, ending the album on a thoughtful and sobering note.

Although Providence contains only eight songs, it feels complete from beginning to end. Evan Ryan Canady has crafted an album that balances impressive musicianship with an unapologetically Christ centered message. For fans of melodic Christian metal that values substance as much as technical ability, Providence is well worth adding to your playlist.

.

Tabernacle – Atlanta, Georgia
July 8, 2026

The Tabernacle remains one of my favorite venues, with excellent acoustics and a setting that always makes a show feel special. I made the trip with two of my regular concert buddies, Brian Tanguay and Steve Morse, and this was my first time seeing all three bands on the bill.

Heal The Hurt made the most of a short opening set. I had interviewed Trevor Tyson about a year ago and had met him at a Cleansing of the Temple and With Blood Comes Cleansing show in Greenville, so it was good to finally catch the band live. Trevor spoke between songs about hope, reminding the crowd that they are loved and not alone. That message matched the band’s performance, which was energetic, heartfelt, and strong enough that my friends actually preferred them over Wolves at the Gate that night.

Wolves at the Gate delivered exactly what you would expect from a veteran Christian metalcore band. Their mix of screams and clean vocals hit hard, and their set kept the energy moving. The frontman worked the stage constantly and did a great job engaging the crowd, while the band continued to show why they have set such a high standard for heavy music with substance.

This was my first time seeing Flyleaf, and getting to see them with Lacey Sturm made it even more memorable. The band is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its self-titled debut album, and there was a real sense that Atlanta was witnessing something special as the first night of the tour. Before Flyleaf took the stage, “The Red” by Chevelle blasted through the PA in tribute to their late sound engineer Rich Caldwell, a meaningful moment that gave the opening even more weight.

Flyleaf’s set mixed nostalgia, emotion, and gratitude. Lacey spoke openly about hope and reminded the packed room that they are loved and not alone, and it came across as sincere rather than rehearsed. One of the biggest moments of the night was hearing “This Close” played live for the first time ever. She also shared how thankful she was that Sameer Bhattacharya was able to be there after recovering from a motorcycle accident. Meanwhile, Pat Seals brought nonstop energy on bass, and the whole band looked fully locked in.

Songs like “All Around Me,” “I’m So Sick,” and “Fully Alive” had the crowd moving, while “Cassie” and “Sorrow” brought plenty of singalongs. Flyleaf’s catalog has clearly held up, and this lineup still knows how to connect with a crowd.

After the show, it was good to see Cindy Blankenship, aka The Mothership, another familiar face from several concerts this year. It was a fitting end to a memorable night and a strong opening date for Flyleaf’s anniversary run.

Suffer Not The Witch is more than a one-man extreme metal project. For Jarrod Butler, it’s a ministry born from personal experience. Having spent years in the death and black metal scene, Butler now uses his music to share the Gospel with the same community he once called home. We spoke with Jarrod about his testimony, his music, and why he intentionally takes Christ into some of the darkest corners of the metal world.

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From the Occult to Christ

Jimmy Lamar Sorrells: Tell us about “Witch’s Den.”

Jarrod Butler: “Witch’s Den” is my personal testimony in song form.

The strongest line in that song that really summarizes what it’s about is:

“I went from the witch’s den to born again.”

Having a background early on in black metal, I got heavily into witchcraft, all kinds of different forms. I got into Satanism from the black metal scene. I have an obsessive personality, so I got really heavily into it.

I was seventeen when I was saved.

The strange part of my testimony is that even after I was saved, I kept playing extreme metal. I toured Europe with death metal bands and sang about gore and fornication. I joined black metal bands and didn’t care what the lyrics said because I was being intentionally ignorant.

I thought, “I’m saved. It doesn’t matter what I sing about because I don’t believe it.”

That wasn’t true.

I found out the hard way.

Eventually it caused me to walk completely away from the metal scene for at least a decade.

When I came back, I gave everything musically to Christ. That’s what brought me back into metal.

Originally it was through America Inc., but Suffer Not The Witch became one hundred percent dedicated to Christ, using my testimony as a ministry weapon.

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The Meaning Behind the Name

Jay Goodwin: Tell us about the name.

Jarrod Butler: It comes from Exodus 22:18.

The obvious meaning grabs your attention. Being black metal, you’re not subtle.

But there’s another meaning.

“Crucify and Deny” is about denying your flesh. Crucifying your old man.

My old man is a witch.

So anytime that old man tries to rear his head, I’m to suffer not that witch to live.

I’m to crucify him.

Kill him.

Be gone.

That’s what it means for me, and that’s the conversation I can have with members of the occult when they come to talk to me.

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Taking the Gospel to Black Metal Shows

Jimmy Lamar Sorrells: You’re intentionally playing secular black metal shows?

Jarrod Butler: Absolutely.

I intentionally play at the darkest black metal shows I can because I want to minister to the community I was saved from.

I know how to talk to them.

I know about it.

I equate it to escaping a collapsed mine and taking the light. Because I know the way out, I can go back in with the light and show everybody else the way out too.

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A Life Changed

Jimmy Lamar Sorrells: Have you seen lives changed already?

Jarrod Butler: Yes.

The bass player from that satanic band wanted to talk afterward.

We started texting back and forth.

He had all the hard questions you would expect.

Then he disappeared.

Later I found out he started coming to every Suffer Not The Witch show.

Today he and his mother have both given their lives to Christ.

Praise God.

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A Warning and an Invitation

Jimmy Lamar Sorrells: What would you say to someone involved in witchcraft, Satanism, or Masonry?

Jarrod Butler: The reason people fall for witchcraft is because it works.

People don’t like hearing that, but it’s true.

The question is, at what cost?

What is happening to your soul?

All the things you’re looking for…

You know you haven’t found them.

You’re still empty.

The only answer you’re going to find is Christ.

If you’re willing to dig into witchcraft…

If you’re willing to memorize everything you do as a Mason…

You have it in you to dig gloriously into the Word of God.

Everything you’re searching for is there.

The world makes complete sense when you have Scripture in front of you.

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Supporting the Ministry

Jimmy Lamar Sorrells: What can the Christian metal community do to support the ministry?

Jarrod Butler: Buy merch. Buy music on Bandcamp. Come to shows.

But more than anything…

Tell people about it.

Share it.

You’re not just creating fans of the music.

You’re helping this ministry spread the Gospel.

Jarrod Butler’s solo project Suffer Not The Witch delivers three tracks of uncompromising Christian extreme metal that blend blackened aggression with a bold Gospel message. A veteran of the extreme metal scene, Butler uses his experience and testimony to create music that confronts darkness while pointing listeners directly to Jesus Christ.

The EP’s lyrical focus is clear from the opening moments. Songs like “Rains on the Wicked” celebrate God’s mercy and grace, while “Crucify and Deny” highlights transformation through the Holy Spirit. The standout track, “Witch’s Den,” shares Butler’s journey from spiritual darkness to redemption through Christ, culminating with the powerful declaration, “I went from the witch’s den to born again.”

Musically, the EP delivers everything fans of Christian black metal and extreme metal could want. Crushing riffs, fierce vocals, and a dark atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for a message centered on salvation and freedom in Christ.

This is another strong entry in the growing New Wave of Christian Extreme Metal movement. Short, intense, and unapologetically faith-driven, Suffer Not The Witch proves that extreme metal and a Christ-centered message can coexist without compromise.

For more information on the band, visit:

suffernotthewitch.bandzoogle.com

Anniversary tours have become a major part of today’s concert scene, but sometimes the right lineup comes together and creates something that feels bigger than simple nostalgia. That was the case on May 28, 2026, when Anberlin, Emery, and Watashi Wa stopped at The Senate in Columbia, South Carolina.

I attended the show with Joshua Gilmore, Joshua Thomas, Joey Noyes, and my son Max, which made the night even more memorable. Concerts are always about the music, but they are also tied to the people you experience them with and the memories attached to them years later.

Watashi Wa opened the evening and immediately reminded fans why their return matters. This was the band’s first tour in a long time, and there was a noticeable excitement from the crowd to see them active again. Fans sang along throughout the set, showing that the band’s music has continued to connect with listeners even during their long absence from touring. The performance carried a positive and heartfelt energy that set the tone for the rest of the night.

Emery followed with a shorter but high-energy set that quickly turned the venue into controlled chaos. The band has always balanced melody and aggression well, and that chemistry was on full display live. Their closing song, “Walls,” became one of the biggest moments of the night. The crowd instantly erupted into a massive mosh pit, creating more pit action during that one song than the entire rest of the concert combined. Fans screamed every word while bodies collided across the floor in classic post-hardcore fashion.

The night closed with Anberlin performing on the twentieth anniversary tour for Never Take Friendship Personal. Surprisingly, this was my first time ever seeing the band live, and they did not disappoint. Much of the attention surrounding the current version of Anberlin has centered around Matty Mullins taking over vocal duties, and after seeing the performance firsthand, it is easy to understand why he was chosen.

Mullins faces the difficult task of stepping into a role strongly associated with Stephen Christian, but he handled it extremely well. What stood out most was his vocal versatility. He has the range necessary for the melodic and harmonized style of Anberlin while still maintaining the intensity fans know from his work with Memphis May Fire. Rather than feeling like a replacement trying to imitate the past, Mullins helped the performance feel both respectful to Anberlin’s history and fresh at the same time.

During the show, I also found myself reflecting on The Senate itself and how certain venues become connected to different seasons of life. This was the third memorable concert I can remember attending there. The first was Stretch Arm Strong performing the twentieth anniversary tour for Rituals of Life. The second was P.O.D.’s twentieth anniversary tour for Satellite. Now this Anberlin anniversary tour joins that list. It is interesting how venues can quietly become part of your personal music history over time.

Overall, this was an outstanding night of live music filled with nostalgia, energy, and appreciation from both the bands and the audience. Watashi Wa’s long-awaited return, Emery’s explosive ending with “Walls,” and Anberlin’s anniversary celebration all combined to create a concert experience that reminded fans why these bands still continue to matter decades later.