RockWatch:me102204

This evening at the Main Event was mostly a show laced with a mix of anticipation for the return of the band '13th Step'. After a move to California about six months ago, they returned for one show with a new singer. Expecting a large crowd at this music venue where they always have had a good showing when they were based here in the Twin Cities. Joining them was 'Banehinge' and opening the evening line-up was 'Downside of Truth'. A good size crowd came out early and grew to most likely meet expectation for a nearly packed house. 'Downside of Truth' opened heavy and keen on bringing forth a good start to the evening. With a sound that may at times come across a bit like 'Godsmack'. Chris Winters on guitar has added a extra twist to the songs as they progress along as a band with a growing fan base. Most everyone in the crowd knew of 'Banehinge' with their hard core edge. Sounds like they are reshaping some of their songs as they reach out for a broader fan base. With this set they brought out the retired 'Unruly Mob' party song know as "I need a Beer" where Matt of 13th Step along with others joined in on stage. But, this night was mostly about '13th Step' and their new singer. A few of their fans may have ventured out to the west coast to see them in action out there. For most this would be the first time seeing them with a new singer and a new sound. Most of the 13th Step fans were originally drawn to the band by way of their line-up of songs along with the vocal approach of Tick up front driving the stage action. Here fans found a set of mostly new songs with a more so heavy edge along with the aggressive vocals of Drew. The crowd seemed to take to Drew as he moved well on stage and dug into the songs with an energetic style that sets well with the heavy new 13th Step. Some fans may be more so fond of the original 13th Step, yet all seemed to enjoy the show. This new approach of theirs may work well for them and perhaps even more so on the west coast as they dig in and work the scene.