Legends Collide: SYSTEM OF A DOWN & KORN Shake MetLife Stadium 8.28.25

BY: Adam Bakelman

WISP
The night opened with Wisp, marking my first time seeing the band perform. With soothing vocals layered over hard hitting instrumentation, they wasted no time igniting MetLife with a high energy set that immediately engaged the early crowd. Vocalist Natalie Lu expressed her gratitude and excitement, sharing that this was only the band’s second time performing to an arena sized audience. Their debut on the MetLife stage had come just the night before. Wisp proved themselves a rising act not to be overlooked, leaving the impression that they’re a band worth following closely as their momentum builds.
POLYPHIA
Polyphia, the progressive rock instrumental kings, delivered a tight and dynamic set that showcased both technical precision and stage presence. From the flawless opener Loud to fan favorites like 40oz and The Worst, every note was met with enthusiasm. They closed with G.O.A.T., a performance that drew some of the strongest reactions of the night and cemented their reputation as masters of modern instrumental rock.
KORN
As anticipation grew, Korn brought a surge of nostalgia and intensity. Opening with Blind, the first strum of guitar unleashed a roar of excitement from the crowd. Jonathan Davis’s unforgettable “Are you ready?” set the tone for what would become an iconic set. The band powered through hits like Here to Stay, Twisted Transistor, and Shoots and Ladders closing with a stirring rendition of Metallica’s One as an outro. The movement of the audience never relented, a reflection of the band’s enduring energy. Davis paused mid set to take in the atmosphere of MetLife Stadium, a poignant reminder of their journey from small clubs to massive arenas over 32 years. Ending with Freak On A Leash, Korn once again proved there is no stopping them from delivering an experience fans will never forget.
SYSTEM OF A DOWN 
You could just tell System of a Down’s set was going to be on another level. They launched straight into heavy hitters like Prison Song, Violent Pornography, and B.Y.O.B., immediately setting the tone for the rest of the night. Whether fans were headbanging on the barricade, caught in one of the many circle pits, or dancing from their seats, not a single person stood still. With fan favorites like Chop Suey!, Lonely Day, and Lost in Hollywood, Serj Tankian (vocals), Daron Malakian (guitar), Shavo Odadjian (bass), and John Dolmayan (drums) delivered with flawless precision. Their energy throughout the show radiated love for their craft and passion for giving the fans something unforgettable.
The set stretched to 26 songs, including a powerful cover of Black Sabbath’s Snowblind as a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne. Daron took a moment to recall Ozzfest memories, thanking his idol for the inspiration and opportunity. Closing the night with Toxicity and Sugar, System of a Down left the audience exhilarated and cemented the concert as a masterclass in live performance.
Having System of a Down and Korn collide for an unforgettable two nights at MetLife Stadium proves that rock and metal will forever hold a special meaning in bringing people together.