Bayou Mayhem: Wage War brings the Swamps of the South to Pennsylvania
ARCHER MUSIC HALL - ALLENTOWN, PA
Emerging from the swamps of Ocala, FL, Wage War brought their signature metalcore ferocity to Allentown, PA, headlining to a sold-out crowd at Archer Music Hall on their IT CALLS ME BY NAMETOUR. Formed back in 2013, the group quickly rose to fame with a sound that fuses crushing heaviness, melodic hooks, and an unmistakable southern grit. Their debut album Blueprints put them on the map, while follow-ups like Deadweight and Pressure cemented their reputation for crafting emotionally charged songs that hit just as hard as they sound. After signing to Fearless Records in 2015, Wage War’s influence stretches worldwide, with millions of streams and a fiercely loyal fanbase that continues to grow with every release.
To start off the night, fans rushed through the venue doors to pack themselves tight against the barricade, where they eagerly waited for the show to begin. Nashville, TN, band Orthodox opened first, igniting the night and winning over the crowd with an incredible opening set. Already known for pushing the boundaries of modern metalcore, their blend of down-tuned riffs and hardcore grit further proved why they are one of the underground’s most talked-about live acts. Next up was the band Nevertel, a strong duo from Tampa, FL, bringing their unique fusion of genre-bending energy to the stage. Their set started off explosive with their latest single "Break The Silence" featuring Sleep Theory, instantly connecting with the crowd. Tracks like "OTHERSIDE" and the anthemic "Some Things" also showed why fans love their style. The dynamic presence and genuine onstage passion alone whipped the audience into a mania, perfectly setting the stage for Wage War.
After a brief intermission, the sound of crickets and frogs chirped through the speakers as the lights dimmed. Wage War emerged from the shadows, like alligators surfacing at dusk. The crowd exploded as the band dove into their hour-long set, packing it with tracks from their latest EP It Calls Me By Name while still making room for fan-favorite anthems. "Stitch" and "4x4" were among my favorites as the crowd became a surging mass, filling the already humid venue with pure adrenaline and camaraderie. At the height of the chaos, inflatable gators sailed overhead, a playful wink to their Florida roots and a perfect snapshot of the night’s wild spirit. Amidst the chaos, frontman Briton Bond paused, sweat pouring down his face, to declare this crowd one of the heaviest and hottest of the tour. The crowd's electric response only fueled the band further, launching them into the final songs with renewed energy.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their swamp-soaked sound, Wage War’s performance proved why their reach now extends far beyond the Florida swamps and bayous.
