Photos and writing by Dillon Reesor
A packed night at the The Fillmore Charlotte made for one of the more energetic crowds the city’s seen in a minute, even if early traffic meant missing opener Heavensgate. By the time Boundaries hit the stage, the room was already filling in, and they wasted no time getting people moving. Their set leaned heavy and urgent, with plenty of pit action early in the night, always a good sign. They felt right at home in this lineup, bridging the gap between newer aggression and the more established acts to follow.
The Amity Affliction delivered a strong, balanced set that pulled from across their catalog. The crowd response stayed consistent throughout, especially as they worked in both newer material and fan favorites. Closing on “Pittsburgh” and “Soak Me In Bleach” was a smart move, both hit hard live, with the room fully locked in and singing along. It wasn’t flashy, but it was tight, emotional, and exactly what you’d expect from a band that’s been doing this at a high level for years.
By the time August Burns Red took over, the energy had reached another level. They’ve built their reputation as a top-tier live act for a reason, and this set only reinforced it. The performance was sharp and relentless, with zero drop-off in intensity from start to finish. The crowd matched energy step for step, constant movement, nonstop pits, with a level of engagement that never really dipped. It felt less like a headline set and more like a full-room release of pent-up energy.
Overall, it was one of those nights where everything clicked: a stacked bill, a crowd that showed up ready, and a lineup that delivered exactly what their reputation promises.
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