Ministry Plays Philly – How Concerned Are You?

Al Jourgensen of Ministry headlining at The Franklin Music Hall, Phila. PA Photo by Carl Roccia 5.4.23

Philadelphia, PA – Front Line Assembly was an unforgettable experience that showcased the band’s skill, energy, and innovation. From the moment they stepped on stage, they captivated the audience with their driving beats, industrial soundscapes, and fierce visuals.

Front Line Assembly plays the Franklin Music Hall Phila, PA 5.4.23 photo/Carl Roccia

The band opened with “IED,” a synth-laden track that set the tone for the rest of the show. The crowd was instantly drawn in by the dark, atmospheric soundscape, and the hypnotic rhythm that filled the room.

Throughout the performance, Bill Leeb’s commanding presence was on full display, as he led the band with his distinctive vocals and powerful stage presence. The rest of the band matched his intensity, delivering a tight and flawless performance that left the audience in awe. Highlights of the night included performances of “Mindphaser,” “Killing Grounds,” and “Deadened,”  “Milllennium” which had the crowd dancing and headbanging along with the band’s electrifying sound.

Bill Leeb of Front Line Assembly plays the Franklin Music Hall in Phila, PA. 5.4.23 photo by Carl Roccia

The band’s visuals were also stunning, with a combination of projections, lights, and smoke that added to the overall atmosphere. The sound quality was exceptional, with each instrument and vocal perfectly balanced. The basslines were punchy and driving, while the synths and guitars added a layer of texture and depth to the music.

Overall, Front Line Assembly’s show was a testament to its lasting influence on the industrial music scene. 

Gary Numan’s performance at Franklin Music Hall was nothing short of mesmerizing. The iconic synth-pop pioneer showcased his talent, charisma, and musical vision in a show that left the crowd wanting more.

Gary Numan plays at the Franklin Music Hall in Phila. PA. on 5.4.23 photo by Carl Roccia

Numan’s signature tune “Cars,” instantly sends the audience into a frenzy. The song’s pulsing synths and catchy chorus set the tone for the rest of the night, with the crowd singing along to every word.

Numan’s stage presence was captivating, as he moved and danced with a robotic precision that matched the electronic beats. His vocals were pitch-perfect, delivering every lyric with a haunting intensity that drew the crowd in.

Gary Numan at the Franklin Music Hall in Philly 5.4.23 phot by Carl Roccia

The band’s musicianship was exceptional, with each member adding their unique flair to the music. The electronic drums and basslines were driving and punchy, while the guitars added a touch of raw energy to the mix.

The show’s visuals were also impressive, with a combination of strobe lights, lasers, and projections that added to the overall atmosphere. The stage was bathed in neon lights, creating a futuristic vibe that matched the band’s sound.

Gary Numan at the Franklin Music Hall in Philly 5.4.23 phot by Carl Roccia

Highlights of the night included performances of “Cars,” “Metal,” and “The Chosen,” which had the crowd dancing and singing along with Numan’s every move. 

 

Numan’s current touring schedule includes a mix of festival appearances and headlining shows across the UK, Europe, and the United States. 

Overall, Gary Numan’s show was a testament to his lasting influence on the electronic music scene. His music, performance, and stage presence were a true reflection of his artistic vision and left his soul on the stage and a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. 

Ministry, featuring Al Jourgensen (producer, writer, guitarist, vocals), Cesar Soto (guitar), Monte Pittman (guitar), Paul D’Amour (bass), Roy Mayorga (drums), and John Bechdel (keys), is a legendary industrial metal band. They put on an incredible show that left the audience in awe. From start to finish, they delivered an electrifying performance that was a perfect blend of aggression, energy, politics, and passion.

Al Jourgensen of Ministry plays the Franklin Music Hall in Philly, 5.4.23 photo by Carl Roccia

The opening song “Alert Level,” written during the shutdown, hits hard with aggressive guitars and pounding drums, setting the tone for the rest of the record. Frontman Al Jourgensen’s vocals are as powerful as ever, delivering biting social commentary and political critique that are characteristic of Ministry’s lyrics.

Throughout the show, frontman Al Jourgensen’s commanding presence was on full display, as he prowled the stage, bellowing out lyrics with ferocity. His energy was contagious, and the rest of the band matched his intensity with their musicianship.

Highlights of the night included the opening song “Alert Level” (great choice for opener) performances of “Just One Fix,” “N.W.O.,” and “Stigmata,” which had the crowd headbanging and singing along with every word. The band’s visuals were also impressive, with a backdrop of psychedelic colors and images that added to the overall sensory experience.

Al Jourgensen of Ministry play the Franklin Music Hall in Philly on 5.4.23 photo by Carl Roccia

The sound quality was also top-notch, with drums and bass perfectly balanced. The lighting and stage effects added to the atmosphere, Al’s haunting vocals bathed in red lights created a dark and intense ambiance that fit perfectly with the band’s music. 

Overall, Ministry is a show that is an unforgettable experience, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. The band proved that even after more than three decades, they are still one of the most relevant and powerful bands in the industrial metal genre. If you ever have the chance to see Ministry live, do not miss it.

Ministry Setlist:

  1. Alert Level
  2. Good Trouble
  3. Disinformation
  4. Believe Me
  5. Broken System
  6. Goddamn White Trash
  7. W.O.
  8. Just One Fix
  9. The Missing
  10. Deity
  11. Burning Inside
  12. Stigmata

Encore:

  1. Ricky’s Hand

PHOTO GALLERY

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Show Date: May 4, 2023