Static-X – The Fillmore – Minneapolis MN – May 30th 2025

By Kyle Hansen 2 weeks ago

Live Nation presents Machines and Monsters tour staring Static-X with special guests GWAR, Dope and A Killer’s Confession

Review and photos by Kyle Hansen

A Killer’s Confession brought thunder and emotion to The Fillmore in Minneapolis on Friday night, delivering a visceral and cathartic performance that reminded fans exactly why Waylon Reavis remains one of the most compelling frontmen in modern metal.

The night kicked off with a dense fog rolling over the stage, as pulsing lights signaled the arrival of the band. Reavis emerged, wearing his signature war paint and a wild, tattered trench, immediately commanding attention with the opening notes of “Purpose.” The energy in the room surged as fans surged toward the stage, fists pumping in sync with the crushing rhythm section.

Drawing heavily from their 2024 release Victim 1, the band tore through new anthems like “Sun,” “Greed,” and “Hollow.” Each track was met with roaring approval, proof that the album has struck a chord with both longtime followers and newer fans alike. The raw emotion in Reavis’ vocals was impossible to ignore—especially during “Kill or Be Killed,” where the crowd sang back every word like a rallying cry.

Musically, the band was tighter than ever. Drummer Daniel Fox delivered machine-precise blasts, while guitarist Steve Watson’s riffs cut through with a menacing clarity. The band’s industrial-metal backbone stayed strong throughout, with synth layers adding a cinematic flair without overwhelming the core heaviness. Ripping on bass was JP Cross.

The highlight of the night came during “Filth,” with the crowd fully synchronized—hands raised, heads banging, the kind of moment that makes you remember why live music still matters. They closed the set with “Qwerty,” a Mushroomhead song that remains as gripping now as when it first dropped. The final scream faded into a standing ovation and a few tears from fans who had clearly been moved.

Final Verdict: 9/10

This wasn’t just a metal show. It was a purge, a celebration, and a reminder that even in the darkest sound, there can be light. A Killer’s Confession continues to evolve while staying brutally honest—and Minneapolis witnessed that evolution in full force.

If nostalgia had a soundtrack and a fistful of middle fingers, it would sound a lot like Dope’s performance at The Fillmore in Minneapolis on May 30th. Blistering, unapologetic, and refreshingly self-aware, Edsel Dope and company reminded the packed venue why their name is still etched in the DNA of early-2000s industrial metal.

Taking the stage under blood-red lights and feedback-drenched ambience, Dope launched into “Blood Money” with a ferocity that had the floor jumping instantly. The band’s energy was raw and relentless, with Edsel’s snarling vocals cutting through a wall of distorted guitars and thunderous drums like a chainsaw through concrete.

Unlike some legacy acts that phone it in for the sake of nostalgia, Dope brought a renewed intensity to their set. Their performance felt hungry—like a band that still had something to prove. Tracks like “Die MF Die” and “Bitch” lit up the room with crowd-wide screams and circle pits. And when they dropped into “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record),” the Dead or Alive cover that’s become a cult favorite, the entire room sang along in chaotic harmony.

The band’s lineup was tight, with Virus (guitar) on leave to take care of his mother we had. a special guest, Koichi from Static-x and Acey Slade (bass) trading riffs and energy like veterans who never stopped grinding. The rhythm section hit like a freight train, providing the perfect backbone to Edsel’s venomous delivery.

Though the set leaned heavily on fan favorites from almost all their albums, Group Therapy, American Apathy, Blood Money Part One, Felons and Revolutionaries and Life.

In between songs, Edsel took time to talk to the crowd—not just shout slogans, but actually talk. He spoke about the band’s 25+ year journey, about loss and resilience, and gave heartfelt thanks to the fans who’ve stuck with them through the chaos. It was gritty, honest, and somehow uplifting.

Final Verdict: 8.5/10

Dope delivered exactly what fans came for: a no-frills, high-energy, punch-you-in-the-teeth kind of set that felt both nostalgic and vital. They may have emerged in the late ’90s, but on this night in Minneapolis, Dope proved they’re still a force to be reckoned with—louder, tighter, and more pissed off than ever.

GWAR’s performance at The Fillmore Minneapolis on May 30, 2025, as part of the “Machines vs. Monsters” tour with Static-X and Dope, delivered the band’s signature blend of theatrical chaos and heavy metal intensity.

Show Highlights

  • Visual Spectacle: GWAR’s stage presence was as outrageous as ever, featuring elaborate costumes and mock decapitations that drenched the crowd in fake blood—a hallmark of their live shows.

  • Setlist: While specific details of the May 30 setlist are not available, previous performances have included fan favorites such as “America Must Be Destroyed,” “Crack in the Egg,” and “Sick of You.”

  • Audience Reaction: Attendees reported an electrifying atmosphere, with many noting the band’s ability to maintain high energy and engage the crowd throughout the performance.

Venue Experience

  • The Fillmore Minneapolis: Located in the North Loop district, the venue offers a spacious general admission floor and a balcony for elevated views. Patrons have praised the venue for its acoustics and the staff’s attentiveness.

  • Amenities: The Fillmore provides free cold water stations, a thoughtful touch that enhances the concert experience.

Tips for Future Attendees

  • Ear Protection: GWAR’s shows are known for their high volume levels. Bringing earplugs is advisable to protect your hearing.

  • Attire: Be prepared to get messy. The band’s use of fake blood and other stage effects can result in a soaked wardrobe.

  • Arrival Time: Arriving early can ensure a good spot, especially if you prefer to be closer to the stage.

Overall, GWAR’s Minneapolis show was a testament to their enduring appeal and commitment to delivering a memorable live experience.

Static-X returned to Minneapolis on May 30, 2025, delivering an electrifying performance at The Fillmore as part of their “Machines vs. Monsters” tour. With GWAR, Dope, and A Killer’s Confession rounding out the lineup, the night promised—and delivered—an unforgettable industrial metal experience.

The Show

From the moment the lights dimmed, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. The stage was set with a massive video wall, intricate lighting, and a pulsating energy that hinted at the chaos to come. As the opening notes of “I Want to Fucking Break It” echoed through the venue, the crowd erupted, and Xer0, the band’s enigmatic frontman, emerged from behind a towering chrome podium, paying homage to the late Wayne Static.

The setlist was a masterful blend of classics and new material. Tracks like “Push It,” “I’m With Stupid,” and “Cold” had the audience singing along, while new songs from Project Regeneration Vol. 2, such as “Z0mbie,” showcased the band’s evolution and Xer0’s commanding presence.

Stage Presence and Production

Static-X’s commitment to theatricality was evident throughout the performance. The stage was adorned with bubble machines, creating a surreal atmosphere as Xer0’s silhouette loomed large. The video backdrop featured dynamic visuals, including tributes to Wayne Static, adding an emotional depth to the performance.

The band’s chemistry was palpable. Tony Campos’s thunderous bass lines, Koichi Fukuda’s intricate guitar work, and Ken Jay’s relentless drumming provided a solid foundation for Xer0’s powerful vocals, ensuring that the legacy of Static-X remained intact.

Fan Reception

The audience was a mix of longtime fans and newcomers, all united by a shared appreciation for Static-X’s unique blend of industrial metal. The energy was infectious, with fans moshing, headbanging, and singing along to every song. The emotional tribute to Wayne Static during “Cold” resonated deeply, with many fans expressing their gratitude for the band’s dedication to honoring his memory.

Final Thoughts

Static-X’s performance at The Fillmore Minneapolis was a testament to their enduring legacy and commitment to their craft. They successfully balanced nostalgia with innovation, delivering a show that was both a celebration of their past and a glimpse into their future. For fans of industrial metal, this was a night to remember.

Rating: 9/10
An electrifying performance that honored the past while embracing the future.