Review & photos by Joe Schaeffer
Dark Chapel opened the night with songs from their debut album, 2025’s Spirit In The Glass. They have become the surprise standout opener. Featuring guitarist/singer Dario Lorina of Black Label Society, their live set captured the moody and cinematic of that record.
Zakk Sabbath is where the show exploded. The crowd really came to life as Zakk Wylde channeled Iommi with his crushing guitar tone. He added his signature pinch‑harmonic chaos to the tracks. The extended solos brought the songs a new life as only Wylde can do. The set ender “War Pigs” included one such solo and saw Wylde playing throughout the crowd.
The iconic Black Label Society hit the stage and broke out with their song “Funeral Bell,” setting an insane tone for the evening. The band brought incredible energy, crushing guitar riffs and a raw sound that feels both classic and timeless.
The “LA Chapter” of BLS (as dubbed by Zakk Wylde), matched the band’s upbeat energy through a brilliantly curated array of songs like “Destroy and Conquer” and “Heart of Darkness.” They only slightly slowed down for a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne with the guitar solo and ending of “No More Tears.”
“Name in Blood” from the new album Engines Of Demolition was greeted well by the raucous crowd. There were flawless twin solo moments and hand-offs to fellow guitarist Dario Lorina for some killer guitar shredding. Bassist J.D. DeServio and drummer Jeff Fabb showed off their fantastic showmanship during the set.
BLS plowed through the night like a menacing freight train on a collision path with your head, until the final notes of “Stillborn” rang out.
Whether you’ve been a longtime fan or are seeing them for the first time, Black Label Society puts on a performance that’s loud, passionate, and unforgettable. Definitely a must for any metalhead. The tour continues into April with an appearance at the 2026 Monsters of Rock Cruise.
