Better Lovers – Skyway Theater – Minneapolis MN – November 21st 2024

Better Lovers Live: A Night of Explosive Energy and Raw Emotion

From the moment Better Lovers took the stage, it was clear this wasn’t just another show — it was an experience. The band, a supergroup formed by members of Every Time I Die and Dillinger Escape Plan, delivered a night that was as ferocious as it was cathartic, blending chaotic hardcore, metalcore, and post-hardcore influences into something unmistakably their own.

Sound and Performance: A Sonic Avalanche

Opening with the track “Lie Between the Lines,” Better Lovers immediately grabbed the audience’s attention with the onslaught of heavy riffs and furious drumming. The band’s live sound was absolutely punishing — thick, distorted guitars meshing seamlessly with machine-gun drum blasts and bass lines that rattled your very bones. At the heart of it all was the voice of Greg Puciato, who might as well have been channeling every ounce of his frustration and emotion into his performance. His vocals were a standout, ranging from primal screams to more melodic, almost haunting moments, showing off the versatility and depth of the band’s sound.

The energy in the room was palpable, with fans headbanging and moshing to every breakdown and crescendo. Tracks like “The Flowering” and “Become So Small” were particular highlights, with Puciato’s stage presence bringing an almost confrontational intensity to every lyric. It was one of those concerts where you could feel the crowd’s collective adrenaline fueling the band, and vice versa.

Stage Presence: Commanding the Chaos

The band’s stage presence was every bit as intense as their music. Puciato, known for his chaotic energy on stage, was a whirlwind of movement, leaping into the crowd, contorting with the music, and gesturing like a man possessed. The rest of the band — led by guitarist Jordan Buckley (formerly of Every Time I Die) — had a commanding presence of their own. Buckley’s guitar work, full of intricate riffs and face-melting solos, was perfectly complemented by the explosive drumming of Clayton “Goose” Holyoak, who was relentless behind the kit.

There was something about Better Lovers’ live show that felt like it had been crafted for those who are truly in tune with the rawest aspects of hardcore music. The band’s intensity made each track feel like an invitation to lose yourself in the sound, in the moment, and in the catharsis that only music this visceral can provide.

Crowd Interaction: A Bond of Shared Chaos

Better Lovers clearly understand the connection between band and audience. Between songs, Puciato took the time to speak with the crowd, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. There was no distancing between performer and audience — the barrier between the two was almost nonexistent. The crowd screamed along to every word, shouted in unison to the breakdowns, and held nothing back in the chaotic, joyful release that only a live hardcore show can bring.

Setlist and Overall Flow: Well-Paced Chaos

The setlist was a solid blend of the band’s heavier tracks alongside moments of atmospheric tension, giving the audience a chance to catch their breath before diving back into the madness. Standouts like “The Long Way” and “Burn Me Alive” were delivered with precision and passion, allowing each member to shine in their own moment. The show never lagged, with each song building off the last, culminating in a near-flawless performance of “Dreams of Fire,” which had the entire venue singing along with every guttural scream.

Final Thoughts: A Night to Remember

Better Lovers are not just another metalcore band. Their live show is a statement — one of power, precision, and pure emotional release. With their raw energy, tight musicianship, and unrelenting stage presence, they’ve proven that they’re a force to be reckoned with. If you have the chance to catch them live, don’t miss it. This is a band that brings every ounce of their being to the stage, leaving nothing behind. If anything, the concert felt like an invitation to join them in their cathartic exploration of sound — and that’s a journey worth taking.