September 17th 2022
In the embrace of the San Bernardino Mountains, a venue soaked in history welcomed the revival of Staind’s soul-stirring melodies. The Yaamava Casino Theater in Highland, CA, resonated with the promise of a night steeped in haunting verses and gritty guitar riffs that defined Staind’s journey through the late ’90s.
While less active as a collective in recent years, Staind, led by the enigmatic Aaron Lewis, unfurled their melancholic anthems on Saturday, September 17th. The crowd, a tide of Gen-Xers numbering around 2,400, navigated the labyrinth of Interstate 210 traffic to rediscover the magic.
The lineup, anchored by the enduring presence of lead guitarist Mike Mushok and the rhythmic prowess of bassist Johnny April, showcased an enduring stability. Drummer Sal Giancarelli, a recent addition at 11 years, pounded out rhythms in a war-dance style, sending echoes through the expansive hall.
The 14-song setlist unfolded like a tapestry of Staind’s musical evolution, featuring classics like “Eyes Wide Open,” “So Far Away,” and “Right Here.” Mushok, his body bent over the guitar, alternated between gritty riffs and soul-stirring leads, while Lewis, in peak vocal form, delicately navigated the verses and unleashed a raw, growling intensity.
As the main set reached its zenith, Staind returned for a two-song encore, leaving the audience immersed in nostalgia. Lewis, known for his outspoken political views, adopted a different tone for the evening. Clad in a shirt declaring “NOT POLITICALLY CORRECT” and a cap that bluntly stated “F#CK NEWSOM,” he addressed the audience with a subtle nod to his wardrobe, steering the focus back to the music.
However, the only political statement of the night slipped into the song “Intro,” where Lewis modified a line to emphasize diversity of opinion. The crowd responded with a mix of cheers, reflecting the complex tapestry of perspectives in the audience.
Amidst the political undercurrent, the music reclaimed the spotlight as the crowd engaged in a collective anthem during “It’s Been A While.” The evening’s finale, “Mudshovel,” with its loping bass line and moaning guitar riff, sealed the performance. Mushok’s guitar reverberated, leaving a sonic imprint as Staind exited the stage.
The hour and forty-minute journey through Staind’s discography left the audience visibly satisfied, a testament to the band’s enduring resonance. As the current tour wraps up in Oklahoma on September 24th, it marks a fleeting opportunity for those inclined to catch a piece of the past, wrapped in the gritty, unapologetic sound of Staind.