On Friday, October 18, 2024, the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City became the epicenter of nu-metal and progressive metal as Korn, alongside special guests Gojira and Spiritbox, delivered a thunderous performance that left the crowd in awe.
The evening kicked off with Spiritbox taking the stage at 6:30 PM. The Canadian heavy metal group, led by the dynamic Courtney LaPlante, set the tone for the night with their blend of ethereal melodies and crushing riffs. Their set, drawing heavily from their latest EP ‘The Fear Of Fear’, showcased the band’s evolution and their ability to push genre boundaries.
At 7:30 PM, Gojira took command of the stage. The French quartet, known for their environmentally conscious lyrics and technical prowess, delivered a set that was both brutally heavy and surprisingly introspective. Tracks from their Grammy-nominated albums resonated through the arena, with the crowd particularly responsive to their signature blend of groove metal and progressive elements.
The anticipation reached its peak as Korn, the night’s headliners, emerged at 9:10 PM. Celebrating their 30th anniversary, the nu-metal pioneers demonstrated why they’ve remained at the forefront of the genre for three decades. Opening with classics from their self-titled debut album, they quickly had the packed arena on their feet.
Frontman Jonathan Davis, his voice as powerful and emotive as ever, led the band through a career-spanning setlist. Hits like “Blind”, “Got the Life”, and “A.D.I.D.A.S.” had the crowd singing along word for word, while deeper cuts satisfied long-time fans. The rhythm section of Ra Díaz and Ray Luzier provided a thunderous backbone, while guitarists Head and Munky’s down-tuned riffs cut through the mix with precision.
A highlight of the night was Korn’s performance of tracks from their latest works, which showcased their continued relevance and willingness to evolve. The band’s energy never wavered, with Davis prowling the stage, bagpipes in hand, for “Shoots and Ladders,” much to the delight of the audience.
The production was top-notch, with a light show that perfectly complemented the music’s intensity. The sound at T-Mobile Center was impeccable, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining the band’s signature wall of sound.
As the night drew to a close, Korn encored with blistering renditions of “Falling Away From Me” and “Freak on a Leash” leaving the Kansas City crowd exhausted but exhilarated. The concert was a testament to the enduring power of metal and Korn’s status as genre titans.
This show, part of Korn’s 25-date North American tour, proved that after three decades, the band still possesses the ability to captivate audiences with their unique blend of aggression, emotion, and musicianship. For fans of heavy music, this was an unforgettable night that will be talked about for years to come.
Photos by Thomas Woroniak Photography