Page 23 - ION Indie Magazine JULYAUG 2024

The Von Braun Center is an amazing venue. It is nearly sold out. As I make my way to
the photo pit, I realize the crowd is greatly diverse. My age group is definitely
represented, but I also spot that group of 16-year-olds that remind me of me nearly

forty years ago. A whole lot of every other age is here as well.

The arena is pure electricity. The show opens with the Swedish band Sabaton. A band

with a long history, and honestly, could have headlined their own show. The stage is
outfitted with a huge Army tank and mic stands that are rifles with helmets on top. Lead
man and vocalist Joakim Broden hit us with a very gritty metal sound. The crowd was

pleased. The band ended their set with the hit “To Hell and Back.” We didn't need to
know the words as we were there with the sole purpose of rockin’!