Surviving The Storm For An Unforgettable Sevendust Show

The snowstorm was relentless, blanketing the region in a thick, snowy layer that would have deterred most from venturing out. But for Sevendust fans, this wasn’t just another night; it was an opportunity to witness something special. As the streets of Milwaukee transformed into a winter obstacle course, determined concertgoers poured into The Rave Eagles Ballroom, their spirits undampened by the freezing conditions. There was an unspoken understanding among the crowd; everyone who made it through the storm had earned their place, and the shared excitement created an undeniable energy.

All Photos By: Aaron R. Shriver Photography

Inside, the historic venue seemed to come alive as fans chatted and laughed, shaking off the cold and gearing up for the night ahead. The ballroom, with its storied past and intimate yet expansive atmosphere, became a haven from the storm outside. People huddled together, not just for warmth but for the connection that only live music can provide. The buzz in the air was more than anticipation; it was gratitude for being there, for having made it. The camaraderie among the crowd was impossible to miss. Strangers exchanged stories about their treks through the snow, their laughter ringing out as they settled in for a night that promised to be as resilient and unshakable as the fans themselves.

Built in 1926, The Rave Eagles Ballroom stands as a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s cultural and entertainment history. Originally designed as The Eagles Club, the building served as a gathering place for the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, complete with unique amenities like a bowling alley, a swimming pool, and even a boxing ring. Over time, as the needs of the community shifted, so did the building’s purpose. What once hosted social and athletic events eventually transformed into a celebrated concert venue that has drawn music fans from near and far.

For decades, its walls have echoed with the sounds of countless performances, becoming a space where both legendary and emerging artists have shared their craft. The architecture itself exudes a sense of timelessness, with its elegant details providing a striking contrast to the raw energy that fills the space during live shows. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the ballroom has also earned a reputation for creating an atmosphere that brings fans and artists closer together, fostering a connection that few venues can replicate. For bands like Sevendust, this isn’t just a place to play, it’s a site woven into the fabric of their journey, where memories have been made and milestones celebrated time and again.

Cory Marks brought an undeniable spark to the stage, immediately drawing the crowd in with his dynamic energy and distinct blend of country and rock influences. His set wasn’t just music; it was storytelling, with lyrics that delved into themes of resilience, family, and life’s unpredictable highs and lows. Opening with "(Make My) Country Rock," Marks wasted no time showcasing his signature style, which bridges the raw grit of hard rock with the heartfelt narratives of classic country.

The audience responded with enthusiasm, clapping and swaying along as he transitioned seamlessly into songs like "Are You With Me?" and "Blame It On The Double." Each track carried a punch, grounded in authenticity that connected with listeners on a personal level. When he performed "Whiskey River," his command of the room was palpable, setting the tone for what became an intimate yet electric exchange between artist and audience.

Click The Image Above For The Full Cory Marks Photo Gallery

"Outlaws & Outsiders" stood out as a highlight, its bold attitude and infectious rhythm igniting the crowd. By the time he wrapped up with "Sorry For Nothing," the atmosphere in the ballroom was electric, the excitement in the room building in anticipation for what was to come. Marks delivered not just a setlist, but an emotional journey that resonated with everyone in attendance.

Sevendust's history with The Rave Eagles Ballroom is deeply rooted in the band’s journey, making it one of their most frequented and cherished venues. Over the years, this iconic Milwaukee venue has witnessed the evolution of the band, from their early days to the seasoned performers they are today. Having played there 25 times since their debut at the venue in 1997, Sevendust’s connection to The Rave goes beyond just familiarity; it’s a relationship built on years of unforgettable performances and shared moments with their loyal fans.

“This lovely place has probably been one of the venues, and I can honestly say that in our career, I think we have probably played this place more than anywhere in the United States.”

For the band, The Rave feels like a home away from home, a place where the stage is more than just a platform; it’s a canvas where memories are created. The walls of the venue have reverberated with their music countless times, and the energy of the Milwaukee crowds never fails to match the band’s intensity. That history was felt in every note and every interaction during this acoustic performance, as the band played with the confidence and comfort that comes from being in a space that feels almost sacred to them.

Each visit to The Rave holds its own unique significance, and this particular night added another layer to the bond between Sevendust and the Milwaukee crowd, creating yet another chapter in their shared story. The night took on a distinct energy as Sevendust settled onto their stools, starting the set with "Black." What immediately stood out was the raw, unfiltered connection between the band and the audience. While the performance was acoustic, the emotion and intensity were anything but subdued. The stripped-down arrangements gave the songs a new kind of depth, offering fans a chance to experience familiar tracks in a way that felt deeply personal.

Songs like "Disgrace" and "Beautiful" filled the room, with Lajon Witherspoon’s voice cutting through the air in a way that felt both commanding and heartfelt. The crowd responded in kind, their voices joining his to create a sound that was both intimate and electric. Tracks like "Skeleton Song," "Trust," and "Xmas Day" brought their own unique energy, and the band’s cover of Johnny Cash’s "Hurt" had the audience mesmerized. When they played "Angel’s Son," the collective voices of the crowd rose again, a moment that felt almost transcendent.

Every note carried the weight of the band’s connection to their fans, and every lyric resonated in the warm, buzzing atmosphere. Even seated, the members of Sevendust delivered a performance that radiated energy and heart. Lajon Witherspoon’s warmth and sincerity shone through as he connected with the crowd throughout the night. Between songs, he took moments to speak directly to the audience, sharing his appreciation for their commitment to being there despite the challenges of the storm.

“Last night we were in Minneapolis, and it started snowing, so we left a little early cause we didn’t think we would make it here. We didn’t think anyone was going to show up. Then we wondered where everyone was going to park, and you guys are here, so thank you.”

His voice carried genuine gratitude, creating a sense of togetherness that made the evening feel even more special. Referring to the audience as “storm troopers,” he acknowledged the dedication it took to make it to the show, a sentiment that resonated deeply with everyone in the room.

“You guys are the real storm troopers right here.”

Fans responded with cheers and shouts of encouragement, fueling the band’s energy. The room felt alive with the mutual respect and admiration that only grows over decades of shared experiences between a band and their devoted following. When Lajon shared that the band had recently wrapped up recording their latest album, the excitement in the crowd was undeniable. It was a moment that promised more to come, a nod to the ongoing relationship between Sevendust and their fans. The interaction was effortless, natural, and heartfelt, a reminder that moments like these are what make live music experiences irreplaceable.

The closing moments of the night brought a surge of energy that defied the acoustic setup, with Sevendust delivering a series of unforgettable performances. The crowd, already deeply immersed in the music, erupted as the band launched into "Rumble Fish," "Bitch," and "Too Close To Hate." Each song carried a dynamic intensity, proving that even in a seated format, Sevendust’s passion and raw power remained unmatched. The room felt alive, with fans singing along and feeding off the band’s undeniable energy.

When the set seemed to have reached its peak, the band returned for an encore that brought the evening full circle. "Face To Face" filled the space with an electrifying force, the perfect culmination of a night that had already exceeded expectations. It was a moment that blurred the line between performer and audience, as everyone in the room felt part of something larger than themselves. As the final notes rang out, there was an overwhelming sense of unity and triumph, a collective recognition of the magic that had just unfolded.

Click The Above Image For The Full Sevendust Photo Gallery

With waves of applause and cheers echoing through the venue, Sevendust left the stage, and fans left carrying the kind of memories only a night like this could create. The night wasn’t just a celebration of music but a tribute to the unwavering spirit of those who filled the ballroom. Walking back into the snowy streets, it was clear that this show had been worth every challenge to get there, a night where live music brought people together in a way only it can.

For More On Sevendust Click Here

Sevendust Set-List:

Black

Disgrace

Beautiful

Skeleton Song

Trust

Denial

Follow

Xmas Day

Hurt (Johnny Cash cover)

Angel's Son

Rumble Fish (snippet of “Walk” by Pantera.)

Bitch

Too Close to Hate

———————————

Face to Face