Nonpoint Proves Why They're Still One of Hard Rock's Most Underrated Live Bands at Blue Note Harrison

By: Evan J. Thomas 

Sometimes the best concerts don't happen in arenas. Sometimes they happen in intimate venues where you can feel every guitar riff, every bass note, and every ounce of energy coming off the stage.


That was exactly the case when Nonpoint brought The Even More... Outta Control Tour to the intimate confines of Blue Note Harrison in Harrison, Ohio.  I wasn't a fan of the venue layout as there was a small "Pit" area with tables and chairs scattered throughout the venue for the non standers to sit. 

Joining Nonpoint were two legendary names from the late '90s and early 2000s heavy music scene (hed) P.E. and Spineshank creating a lineup that felt like a love letter to the golden era of nu metal and alternative metal.


Opening the night, (hed) P.E. wasted little time reminding fans why they've remained one of heavy music's most unique acts and did they put on a show!


Blending rap, punk, reggae, metal, and pure chaos, the band put on a set that was as unpredictable as it was entertaining. Frontman Jared Gomes worked the room effortlessly, mixing humor with high energy performances while keeping the crowd engaged between songs. Their performance leaned on material spanning their long career while also giving fans a taste of newer music, proving the band still has plenty left in the tank.  I've seen (hed) P.E. several times over the years and this was probably the most impressive set i've seen to date.  

If there was any doubt about whether Spineshank still had it after returning to the stage, those questions were answered almost immediately.


Jonny Santos commanded the room with the same intensity fans remember from the band's heyday. His vocals were powerful, emotional, and relentless, while the band ripped through a set packed with crushing riffs and mechanical grooves that made the room feel twenty years younger.


There was a genuine sense of nostalgia, but it never felt like a nostalgia act.  This was a band playing with purpose.  Their performance reminded everyone why so many fans have hoped for a full-fledged return.


What can I say about Nonpoint that hasn't already been said?   From the moment Elias Soriano stepped on stage, it was clear whose house this was. Nonpoint has always been one of those bands that somehow sounds even heavier live than they do in the studio, and that trend continued in Harrison.


Soriano remains one of rock's most underrated frontmen, constantly moving, encouraging crowd participation, and delivering every lyric with passion. Drummer Robb Rivera once again proved why he's one of the genre's most consistent musicians, laying down thunderous rhythms that never let the momentum dip.


The chemistry between the band members was undeniable.  Whether it was guitarist Jaysin Zeilstra ripping through soaring leads, Rasheed Thomas locking down crushing rhythm parts, or bassist Adam Woloszyn providing the low end punch, every member had moments to shine.


Oh and by the way, Elias made it clear that the masses upcoming album, The Last Word, is due out on September 18, so much he got it stuck in my head.  While mixing in the fan favorites that have made Nonpoint a staple of hard rock for more than two decades. The crowd responded with nonstop energy from start to finish.


One of the biggest advantages of seeing a show at Blue Note Harrison is the intimacy.  Fans weren't separated from the bands by massive barricades or giant video screens, there wasn't even a photo pit for the photographers. 


Instead, they experienced the music up close, creating the kind of connection that's becoming increasingly rare in today's concert landscape. The venue's close quarters and rock club atmosphere made the performances feel personal, amplifying the energy throughout the night.


If The Even More... Outta Control Tour is heading anywhere near you, don't make the mistake of skipping it.​