It’s been seven years since Bullet for My Valentine last visited Houston. A sold out House of Blues welcomed the band back, and a memorable night was made. The band kicked off the show with their latest single “Knives,” which was released in 2021. What a great commodity to fans of metal core in the midst of a pandemic when all seemed uncertain, we received this gem. For it to kick off the tour was a great gesture as it signifies our ventures out of those times, and back into the grateful feeling we get to experience live music again.
The show continued and the crowd grew in excitement as front man Matt Tucker exchanged words with fans. “Thank you very much for not forgetting who we are,” he stated as the setlist transitioned into tracks from 2006 release, “The Poison.” This clearly attributes to the fact that music is timeless. Even 17 years later, the entire venue was in sync shouting the lyrics to “All These Things I Hate”, while the band took a moment to appreciate the crowd. It’s always a sight to see when your creation is truly long lived.
In between the set-list, Matt continuously thanked Houston for our constant support. He mentioned, “This year marks a milestone for Bullet. 2023 marks the 20th year anniversary.” The crowd unanimously agreed to sing Happy Birthday to the band. It was a very moving moment. Jumping through the years seemed to be the theme of the show. The band continued to play tracks from various albums, getting fans in their feelings as they played “Tears Don’t Fall,” and “Suffocating Under Words of Sorrow” back to back. Truly heartfelt lyrics were shouted during the duration of the performance. The engagement from fans was bittersweet.
The show ended on a very upbeat, and harmonious note. Tucker engaged with the crowd mentioning they were turning up the tempo of the room. “Waking The Demon,” and “Hearts Burst Into Fire” closed the show.
Setlist:
Knives
Over It
Your Betrayal
Piece of Me
4 Words (to Choke Upon)
The Last Fight
All These Things I Hate (Revolve Around Me)
Shatter
Scream Aim Fire
You Want a Battle? (Here’s a War)
Rainbow Veins
Don’t Need You
Tears Don’t Fall
Suffocating Under Words of Sorrow (What Can I Do)
Waking the Demon
Encore:
Hearts Burst Into Fire
Photos: Krystiee Lee Photography (Website)
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