SEETHER, DAUGHTRY, P.O.D. & KAMI KEHOE Bring the Heat to Chicago's Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom

11/9/2025

By: Evan J. Thomas

This past Thursday night at the historic Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom in Chicago delivered a rock lineup that hit hard, hit genuine, and left the crowd buzzing well after the lights came down. From rising star Kami Kehoe to the veteran powerhouse of Seether, the evening marched through riff-heavy terrain with confidence and swagger.

Kami Kehoe set the tone with a punchy, high-octane set that injected the night with raw, driven energy. While still early in her climb, her powerful presence and gritty vocal delivery proved her more than ready to open a night of rock. The highlight of her set for me was when she took over on drums and tore it up. At the age of 22, Kami Kehoe is a name to keep an eye on.

Next up, California’s nu metal legends P.O.D. brought their signature blend of rap-metal and spiritual grit, turning the ballroom into a cathartic bounce pit. Tracks delivered with their trademark urgency had fans moving and singing back every line—proof that the band still know how to command a large room.

When Daughtry took the stage, it was stadium-level rock in an intimate club setting. Frontman Chris Daughtry’s soaring vocals paired with polished hooks delivered one arena anthem after another, the set shimmering with melody without losing that raw live edge. The emotion that pours out of the veins of Daughtry is immeasurable, as you can see by my photographs. I saw him back in April in Indianapolis opening up for Disturbed and was very excited to photograph the former American Idol contestant.

Finally, Seether closed out the night with intensity and authenticity. The South African trio leaned into their heavier mood—crunchy guitars, brooding textures, and those familiar sing-along moments that feel earned. They balanced nostalgia with modern grit, reminding everyone that post-grunge still has teeth. Lighting was a struggle throughout since it seemed like the band didn't want us photographers in the pit.

This was a rock night built for both die-hards and those craving fresh yet familiar energy. From the opener to the closer, the lineup proved more than just nostalgia—it proved relevance, vitality, and gritty artistry. Chicago got a statement show on November 6: rock is alive, and it still packs a serious punch.