Pallbearer, Orlando 2025
I have a somewhat controversial opinion. Mind Burns Alive was my AOTY when it came out; and it's leaps and bounds my favorite Pallbearer record. It's just a powerhouse of emotion and innovation. I hated it at first. I was like, "What the hell is this?" But a seed was planted and I kept listening. And over the next few weeks it was on constant rotation. So much so, that when the titular track comes on, my son and I stop whatever we are doing and let the sound bathe us.
So when I heard that Pallbearer was coming to Florida–four stops no less!–I bought three tickets sight unseen. I later found out that they were going to perform Foundations of Burden entirely and I was a bit let down, but still super excited to see them. Since purchasing the tickets the 2025 Redux was released and my appreciation of that album grew even more; the new mixing sounds fantastic. Exciting!
Last night, with my partner-in-crime in tow, we headed out and grabbed a pie at PIGZZA. After talking to the bartender a bit (Hey Josh!) we headed over to see Knoll play some.
Knoll is an interesting act; we weren't able to see much of their performance, due to coming in a bit late and with how many people were there. Which is unfortunate. They definitely have a vibe that they are going for. Black-shaded lamps on stage. Victorian decorations. I think they put on some kind of magic show too; pretty sure I saw the singer pull a lit candle from his mouth. Not sure about that one.
My daughter was fascinated enough to go get a sticker from them. She grabbed from their unmanned merch table (they were onstage) and then tried to give it to Joseph from Pallbearer (who was manning his table) to checkout. Joseph was rightfully confused as my daughter grunted a few basic sounds, trying to communicate that she intended to purchase said Knoll sticker, to which Joseph informed her he could not perform said task as it wasn't his merch. Good times.
How was the show? Fantastic. But you know that. Pallbearer are pillars of doom at this point and if you can, you should totally go see them. Do it.
I did pick up a t-shirt and the vinyl of Foundations. Which you should do anytime you go see your favorite bands if you can, it really helps! Until next time, as Aaron likes to say: Stay heavy and wear quality ear protection.
