Norma Jean Concert Review
Tulsa, Oklahoma – Sounds of the Underground is one of the largest hardcore and metal tours around, showcasing more than 20 of the most popular bands in both genres alike – more of a traveling festival than a tour, if you ask me. Attending such an exhaustive tour, I found it hard to manage my time wisely, either missing out on a great set or an opportunity to meet a great band. Nevertheless, I did have the chance to see several of my personal favorites (Fear Before The March Of Flames, Every Time I Die), as well as watch some of the weirdest (GWAR) and most influential (Madball) bands in heavy music today. And then there was Norma Jean, the only Christian band on the bill, mind you!
Norma Jean took to the stage under a scorching sun and to a weary crowd. Not wasting any time, they went directly into their first song, “The Entire World is Counting On Me and They Don’t Even Know It.” It didn’t take long for the crowd to work up enough strength to make the guys feel welcome, going into a frenzy throughout the song. These boys weren’t about to let the crowd outdo them though, constantly bouncing from one side of the stage to another. Having to finish their set in the allotted time, they moved along quickly, playing several songs from their new CD, Oh God, The Aftermath. Up next was the mind-blowing “Face: Face.” Phew! Everyone knew that Corey Brandon had big shoes to fill (replacing the near legendary Josh Scogin), but after hearing him move through the song with ease, there is no doubt in my mind that he has what it takes. To close the night, Norma Jean went with the obvious choice: “Memphis Will Be Laid To Waste.” Through much of the song it was hard to look away from the drummer, whose performance was a show in itself. To spice things up, Dave Marion of Fear Before The March of Flames joined in on the action, trading off screams with Brandon. By the end of the song, several kids were getting their shot at the microphone, while Brandon shouted the last few lines of the song (which are done by Aaron Weiss on the recording). This was my first time to see Norma Jean, and after witnessing such an amazing performance, it won’t be the last.
Review by Darren Tindell
Photos by Mina Farzad
©2005 HM Magazine - All Rights Reserved
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Comments
yesss, norma jean puts on amazing shows. cory is amazing, but they just arnt the same without josh. but i still love them, and the chariot. they are real cool guys to hang out with, and they are very faithful to God. keep rockin, and def try and see NJ in concert. peace out
I agree wholeheartedly. NJ is one of the best hardcore groups ever, and that's beyond just the "Christian" realm. We need a ton more groups like these guys and the world will see just how genuine Christians really are. I believe that the next move of God is going to be coming through the metal and underground scenes.
I can't wait till God moves on the hearts of men by not having to be preached at, just ministered to, and we'll watch from afar as they are blessed by our genuinness and open hands.
I have not seen Norma Jean yet, and until a few days ago did not even like them! But then I looked at their lyrics, and I now have a deeper respect for them, and now that I know exactly where their hearts are, I love them! But this August they are going to be at Purple Door, and now they are the band that I can't wait to see...
:) my friend darren wrote this. im so happy for him. and norma jean has amazing talent. and mina took the pictures :)
i was there.
and it was amazing.
I saw NJ in dallas before the release of "O God the Aftermath," but after corey joined the band. the show was amazing, corey did an excellent job performing the lyrical genius of josh scogin. i've been dying to see them ever since.
I saw NJ on the HM stage at purple door and it was awesome. I have to agree with tyler that they just aren't the same without Josh, but i was lucky to see josh perform with them one last time :) During Memphis will be laid to waste, Josh sang with... the new singer.. and aaron from mewithout you sang his part of the song... i think i teared up a bit i was so happy !!!!!
hey danil its me Zack from the Church Life Point remember well u got my E-mail W/B ZAs90@msn.com
hey man its the other friend from church zach told me to pos a commment so i hope u get it but i listend to the band its kick A** lol but one of my friends is crazy about your band and hopefully u could hook us up w/ sum cd's? but ttyl and uhh try to cum up to the church
