Staind Returns to Harrah’s Stir Cove

Staind at Harrah's Stir Cove in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Sunday, September 10, 2023. (Photo by Pam Whisenhunt)

PAM WHISENHUNT | Go Venue Magazine

Staind strolled through Council Bluffs, Iowa, performing at Harrah’s Stir Cove, September 10th, 2023.  Staind coming off their co-headlining tour with Godsmack, has performed a few random shows (including this one) ahead of their new album release Confessions Of The Fallen which is scheduled to be released September 22nd, 2023. 

I was a little concerned about the weather and if the show would go off on time. Coming in from Lincoln, it was down-pouring. Thankfully, it ended up just a slight drizzle for the show. 

Arson City, tagged to be Staind’s opener for the night, took the stage on-time. What can I say about Arson City that hasn’t already been said? Together, these guys are a powerhouse group and brought the full “City” set up, including their three additional percussionists. Personally, I feel their opening set is always too short, but it’s enough to get the party started.

Staind was delayed a bit due to the rain, but eventually they kicked off with “Lowest in Me” their first number one Billboard song in over a decade. Staind made slow transitions between popular songs and more obscure selections.  Mike Mushok (guitar) never stopped slinging his hair and between songs, Aaron Lewis paused at the drum riser to grab a swig of his drink and take a puff of a cigarette.  At one point, Lewis commented the whiskey tastes “really good”! I could tell he was feeling the set. He looked very chill in his jeans, sweatshirt and ballcap, sometimes standing with his hands in his pockets, sometimes leaning into the mic and at one point hanging onto the mic with an almost consumed cigarette. Regardless of his relaxed demeanor, Lewis’ vocals were on point. They were smooth, yet powerful and just when he started lulling us into some heartbreaking melodies, he would make it gritty and release his signature growl.

I’m glad Aaron Lewis is back with Staind. I’m sure he made a great country artist, but his voice belongs in the metal world. I look forward to the new album and music to come. 

Staind

Arson City

All images © Pam Whisenhunt


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