West Palm Beach, Fl – The Banyan Live pulses with anticipation as Grin Cynic celebrate their album release party on May 18, 2024, marking a milestone for the local rock scene. The evening is a masterful blend of nostalgia and new beginnings, opening with a powerhouse performance by War Pigs, featuring former Black Sabbath bassist Dave “The Beast” Spitz, and hosted by the charismatic former VH1 host of That Metal Show, Don Jamieson.
Jamieson brings his unique blend of humor and rock knowledge to the evening, seamlessly connecting with the audience ahead of the show and in between sets. His witty banter and stories from his days on “That Metal Show” provides a perfect interlude, keeping the energy high and the audience engaged. Jamieson’s presence adds a layer of rock authenticity and excitement, perfectly setting the stage for War Pigs and Grin Cynic.
War Pigs set the stage ablaze with a ferocious set that pays homage to heavy metal’s golden era. Dave Spitz, with his signature bass lines, transports the crowd back to the heydays of Black Sabbath. The band’s renditions of classic Sabbath hits like “War Pigs” are both electrifying and nostalgic, resonating deeply with the diverse audience. Spitz’s presence is magnetic, his bass riffs anchoring the familiar tunes while the band adds their unique twist. Joining Dave in War Pigs is Andy Mendez (Vocals), Anthony Alfano (Guitar) and Steve Dewey (Drums). By the end of their set, the crowd is primed and ready for the main event.
As the lights dim and the first chords of Grin Cynic’s “Eyes Like 45’s” ring out, it was clear the band plans something special. Celebrating their latest album, Grin Cynic delivers a performance that is both a celebration of their journey and a bold statement of their future.
The band demonstrates their evolving sound—complex yet accessible, with tight musicianship and emotive lyrics. Lead singer James Wamsley’s vocals are a highlight of the evening, rich with intensity and passion, effortlessly shifting between powerful anthems and haunting ballads.
Guitarists Mike Lee and Sean Young’s solos are nothing short of powerful, showcasing technical prowess without overshadowing the band’s cohesive sound. The rhythm section, featuring drummer Rafael Lamardo and bassist Sean Hannon, provide a solid backbone, driving the energy of the performance forward. The audience, a mix of long-time fans and newcomers, respond with enthusiastic applause, creating an electrifying atmosphere that only grows as the night progresses.
The evening reaches its peak with the final song, “Let Me Go,” a powerful track to wrap up the album release party. As last notes echo through The Banyan Live, it is clear Grin Cynic have not only celebrated their new album but also cemented their place in the Florida’s rock landscape. As of the writing of this article, “Let Me Go” is steadily climbing multiple charts.
Grin Cynic’s album release party is more than just a concert—it was a testament to the enduring power of rock music and the band’s evolution. War Pigs provides a powerful opening, Don Jamieson’s hosting adds a touch of humor and history, and Grin Cynic’s performance was nothing short of solid. For those in attendance, it is an unforgettable night that celebrates the past, present, and future of rock.
Galleries
Grin Cynic
War Pigs
Grin Cynic Set List
- Eye’s Like 45’s
- Heal My Soul
- All For Nothing
- Ugly Meg
- Joke
- No Quarter (Acoustic)
- Caught In The Middle
- Hold On
- Fearless
- Stealing Time
- Fly High
- Cover The World
- Walk The Fire
- Let Me Go
Show Date: May 18, 2024