OPUS’ BLIZZARD BIRTHDAY BASH – TOAD’S PLACE – NEW HAVEN
By Donna Marie Eriquezzo
Opus‘ Blizzard Birthday Bash was held at Toad’s Place on Jan. 11th with a slew of amazing artists including Dead By Wednesday, Skinlab, Dirt, Casting Shadows, Inverter and Zack Attack.
Winter is not just about snow and cold, it brings a special celebration that music lovers eagerly await after the holidays. Opus’ Blizzard Birthday Bash, on January 11, 2025, at Toad’s Place in New Haven, Ct is an event that warmed the hearts of many and once again created some seriously unforgettable memories. This event is looked forward to annually by many and is comprised of some amazing bands. Music has such a unique ability to bring people together to celebrate and this event is no exception. Local favorites and well known bands all performed on two stages ensuring an exciting experience for everyone and this year had one heck of an amazing lineup.
The event was kicked off with a fairly new artist to the stage, Zack Attack, aka Zachary Eriquezzo, hails from Danbury, Ct. He is a solo guitarist who performs his own music and hopefully, in the future, we will see him in a band as well. Zack kicked off the event on the upstairs stage playing his own original music. He was amazing. He exuded confidence and passion and he is definitely an inspiration to other up and coming young musicians. I look forward too seeing him perform again in the future.
Next up was a metal band called Mourn The Light from Ct., on the mainstage downstairs. These guys have some serious riffs, classic power metal influences and a sound that is memorable and engaging. They are able to create a heavy atmosphere with melodic elements which appeals to a wider audience. Mourn The Light is signed to Argonauta Records and they are definitely making waves in the music world. The band is comprised of Andy Small-Vocals, Dwayne Eldredge-Lead Guitar, Kieran Beaty-Guitar, Bill Herrick-Bass, Kyle Hebner-Drums and Autumn Night-Keyboards.
Skin Crawl
Skin Crawl , another metal band from Ct, was up next and at a perfect time as their music video for their brand new single “Failed State” came out on January 15, 2025 a few days after the show at Toad’s. These guys are deep and powerful, with crushing guitar riffs, aggressive vocals, and intricate melodies. They deliver an unforgettable musical event as they connect with their fans. In addition, they create an experience that leaves a lasting impression. The band features Nick Brunetti, Giovanni Rodriguez, Damian Manigat, and Dominic Paul
Dystopica
Dystopica, another band from CT, was up next on the mainstage. They are a female fronted band who have been making quite a name for themselves in the metal scene. This group has a unique blend of metalcore and progressive elements and they really stand out as a band to watch. They bring an infectious energy to the stage while engaging the crowd and creating an electrifying atmosphere. I really enjoyed watching them perform their set especially their cover of “Freewheel Burning” by Judas Priest. What an intense performance. The band is Becky Brideau-Vocals, Rob Muller-Guitar, Lucas Dellaporta-Bass, Christian “Ham” Peragine-Drums and Jeremy Conboy-2nd Guitar for Toad’s Place.
Photos Jason Dube
Next upstairs was another CT band named Fear The Masses. Wow these guys did not disappoint either! Fear the Masses is a rap rock, alternative metal, heavy metal, funk metal, hip hop meets social and political awareness band. You can find their newly released album Regime Change on Youtube, Spotify, and all other major streaming platforms so be sure to check them out. They are definitely worth a listen. Their music doesn’t talk about women problems, daddy issues, or killing themselves. It’s only about issues that hurt mankind as a whole. Be sure to catch this amazing nu-metal band if you haven’t already done so. Their line-up is Doug, Derek, Franco, and Josh and Nick.
Murder Monday is a deathcore band. They were solid and intoxicating. These guys have been making waves in the local scene with their unique blend of genres and high energy performances. Their sound combines hardcore and deathcore with crushing guitar riffs, raw destructive vocals, and intense drumming. They had an incredible energy and a strong connection with the crowd. The house was headbanging and really into the music. Their stage presence is marked by a mix of charisma and authenticity. This really resonates with their fans and the crowd overall. If you haven’t seen them, please be sure to catch them at an upcoming. Line-up is Rich Tobin-Vocals, Kenny Storrs-Bass, TJ Monaco-Drums, Rob Peck-Guitar, and Steve Soldi-Guitar.
I can not say enough about Inverter. These guys always slay me and they did not disappoint at their Toad’s show. The room was packed and full of energy with the crowd jumping up and down to the music and thoroughly enjoying themselves. Inverter is a metal/hardcore/hip-hop band from Boston, MA and signed to Salt of the Earth Records. In 2021 they received the Boston Music Award for Metal Act of the Year.
With their compelling sound and dynamic performances, they are definitely a band that must be seen. Fans of rock and metal will find much to appreciate in their work. They will definitely leave a lasting impression on anyone who experiences their music live. The band consists of Derek “Deek” Diedricksen-Vocals, Bill Bracken-Guitar, Jimmy E-Bass, and Jeff Lawn-Drums
I was thrilled to see Dirt in this year’s lineup of Opus’ Blizzard Birthday Bash. This hard rock/metal band from CT will pull you in from the moment they hit the stage. Dirt is known for their high energy shows, and catchy riff driven sound. They blend elements of modern hard rock as well as old school cool, in order to create a unique sonic identity that resonates with a very broad audience. The band’s music is characterized by rapacious and complex guitar riffs, powerful drumming, catchy basslines as well as dynamic vocal displays.
Dirt provides engaging live shows where their energy and dynamics really connect with the audience through their love for music. The audience was engaged and in awe throughout their performance starting with “Storm Before the Calm” which really pulled people in. These guys are a very tight band and their prowess is evident on stage. They have such a driving groove and really ravaged the crowd. I spoke to a few people who were seeing Dirt for the first time and they loved these guys. It blows my mind how they are so in sync with each other .
Ray Sylvestre joined Dirt in December of 2023 as their lead vocalist and he fits the band to a T. The way he holds the high notes is mind boggling and he has a certain aggressive style to his higher pitch vocal parts. Fred Bemis, aka Freddy Fingers, also blows my mind with his ferocious bass playing style. Ralph Guzzi and Scott W Kadish have very different guitar styles but they seamlessly blend together really well. Paul Bourdeau has a very demanding drumming style and is quite the heavy hitter. Together these guys are definitely going places.
Their fairly new release “Rock Ain’t Dead” was the last song of the set and let me just say this a profound radio play song, I for one, can listen to this song and all of their songs over and over. Wreckage is an amazing album and my words cant do it justice. Each album they do just gets better and better. If you haven’t picked up a CD or seen them live, be sure you do. It’s a must.
Syfon was next on the upstairs stage. These guys are a death metal band hailing from Ct. Syfon is really propulsive and have a fast and forceful style. This was my first time seeing Syfon and I’m so glad I did. The crowd was headbanging away to this very brazen band and I thoroughly enjoyed their set. Please be sure and catch them soon if you haven’t already. The band is Jay Corradino-Vocals, Angel Wanko-Guitar, Ernie Wright-Guitar, Rich Vilalobos-Bass and John Okpych-Drums
Casting Shadows is an American rock band that has garnered attention for their unique blend of melodic hard rock and modern alternative influences. Originating from Connecticut, the band has built a reputation for their engaging sound and vigorous performances while appealing to a wide range of rock enthusiasts. Musically, Casting Shadows is characterized by soaring vocals, catchy guitar riffs, and a rhythm section that drives their songs forward. Their sound often incorporates elements from various rock subgenres, creating a fresh and contemporary approach while still paying homage to classic rock roots.
Casting Shadows has been active in the local music scene, performing at various venues and music festivals, where they have developed a loyal fanbase. Their live shows are noted for their vigor and connection with the audience They often create an immersive experience that draws in fans and newcomers alike. The band has released several singles and EPs, showcasing their evolution as artists and their commitment to refining their sound. Their recordings reflect a polished production quality that complements their musical style which allows their creativity to shine.
As Casting Shadows continues to grow and evolve, they remain a promising act within the rock genre. With their compelling music and inspiring performances, they are well positioned to make an impact on a broader scale. If you’re looking for fresh rock music with emotional depth and melodic hooks, Casting Shadows is a band worth checking out. The ensemble consists of Matt Barnes-Vocals, Daniel Jackson-Bass, Nick Gallagher-Drums, Adam Bice-Guitar and Scott Harrington-Guitar.
IKILLYA
Last on the upstairs stage but certainly not least was a metalcore band, Ikillya from NY, New York. In 2024 Jason reunited members after a few year hiatus in order to showcase the band’s first two albums. After that event, the group rekindled. This was my first time seeing them and they truly left an impression. The room was packed and the crowd was really into this heavy NYC band, with their raw, powerful vocals and indivisible rhythmic beat. Be sure and get out to see them. Here’s the band; Jason Lekberg -Vocals, Drew-Drums, AJ-Guitar and Phillipe-Bass.
Skinlab is a West Cast based heavy metal band that has been a force in the music scene since their formation in 1994. Known for their spellbinding and savage sound, Skinlab has gained a loyal following of fans who appreciate their singular blend of thrash, groove, and alternative metal. One of the standout aspects of Skinlab’s music is their audacious live productions. The band is known for putting on ruthlessly high-energy shows that leave audiences wanting more. They did not disappoint at Toad’s which, by the way, was their first time back on the East coast in 5 years.
From the moment they got on the stage, Skinlab engaged the crowd with their powerful and intrepid presence. Their music is characterized by gnarly riffs, pounding drums, and sharp vocals that creates a visceral experience for fans. Their music is raw and had an emotional depth to it. The band definitely puts their heart and soul into every song. They deliver each lyric with passion and conviction. Skinlab resonated with the crowd and created a sense of connection and camaraderie between themselves and their fans.
Skinlab has 5 studio albums released between 1997 and 2019 as well as 2 other releases, Eyesore in 1998 and Nerve Damage in 2004. Other releases are Bound, Gagged and Blindfolded (Century Media-1997). Disembody: The New Flesh (Century Media-1999), ReVoltingRoom (Century Media-2002), The Scars Between Us (Stand and Deliver Records-2009) and Venomous (2019).
The band members exuded confidence and charisma, and owned the stage with a commanding force. They have a knack for engaging the audience, whether it be through banter between songs or encouraging crowd participation in the form of mosh pits and head banging.
Overall, Skinlab’s live performances are a must-see for fans of heavy metal music. With their powerful sound, emotional intensity, and magnetic stage presence, Skinlab delivers a concert experience that is both exhilarating and unforgettable. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a new listener, seeing Skinlab live is an experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression as it did on me. I am definitely looking forward too seeing them again. Skinlab is Steev Esquivel-Vocals, Marcos Medina-Guitars, Steve Lujan,-Guitar and Fabian Vestod-Drums.
To culminate this wonderful event, Dead By Wednesday took the stage with their song “Vejka” and immediately the crowd was pumped and loving their performance. DBW fans have been awaiting this performance all evening. I love the way Esteban interacts with the crowd. He loves jumping off the stage and right into the mosh pit. The fans love moshing with him and the crowd keeps it up throughout the set. Dead by Wednesday is an international band that hails from New Haven, CT. Formed in 2006, the band consists of Esteban Alvarez-Bonilla on vocals, Opus Lawrence on drums, Mike Modeste on bass, and Dave Sharpe on guitar.
Their influences range from thrash metal to hardcore punk. Their sound is a very unique blend of aggression and melody that has captivated audiences around the world as they most certainly achieved with the throng at Toad’s. One of their standout songs is “You & Die”. It’s a song that perfectly encapsulates the band’s heightened energy and raw emotion. This song had the crowd moshing and headbanging in unison. Another standout song was “Pawns” which was last on the setlist and the band had a surprise for the audience. David Ramos joined Esteban on vocals. David is Opus’ cousin and one of the original DBW vocalists.
DBW have released one EP, which of course I have a copy of, and four full length recordings including their guest vocalist album Darkest of Angels. Their self-titled release is on David Ellefson’s (Megadeath) newly created Combat Records which is a division of EMP. Their albums are as follows: Democracy is Dead (2005), The Killing Project (2008) The Last Parade (2011), Dead By Wednesday (2019) and Capitol Conspiracy (2022).
Lets not forget also that Dead By Wednesday won the New England Music Awards for rock/metal act of the year in 2024. This award was so rightly deserved. Not only are they a tight band but they are also very kind and down to earth guys who interact with their fans before and after their shows. You must see these guys if you haven’t already, I can promise you will have a killer time and an amazing experience, with their blazing stage presence and powerful music. The band never fails to deliver an all-devouring show!
Opus‘ Blizzard Birthday Bash is an event that is looked forward to every January. Each year that I have gone, there has been a killer lineup of bands. This year was no exception. The event brought together music lovers from all walks of life and age groups. It was a night that won’t soon be forgotten and a testament to the power of music to bring people together. The sense of community and camaraderie at Toad’s was palpable as friends and fans came together to celebrate Opus’ birthday. This show was a huge success and I am already looking forward to the show in 2026.
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