Periphery

No exaggeration, progressive djent metal pioneers Periphery are one of the most incredible live acts you could ever hope to witness. Having seen this powerhouse of raw, riff-driven talent a few times in the last few years, I can attest that however epic their thrusting basslines, intricate guitar-weaving and singer Spencer Sotelo’s chill-inducing mix of clean vocals and throat-aching screams sound on their albums, it is even more amazing live. Every time I’ve seen the Maryland-based six-piece, I’ve been blown away by their polyrhythmic prowess, and at just how talented and inventive each member is- true masters of their respective instruments. The band was first formed by musical maverick Misha Mansoor back in the Myspace days of the early 2000s, and has since then (with a few line-up changes in between) spawned into the creativity-fuelled, thrashy, intricate, incredibly progressive metal band of today. Periphery’s self-titled debut in 2010 made the band a success, with hauntingly heavy singles like ‘Icarus Lives’ and ‘Jetpacks Was Yes!’. Their follow-up ‘Periphery II: This Time It’s Personal’, only skyrocketed them further, with tracks like ‘Scarlet’, ‘Ragnarok’ and my personal favourite, ‘Mile Zero’, all of which take the listener on a journey of epic proportions. Their music is so intricately melodic, while at the same time being as hard-hitting as a sledgehammer on steroids, which translates into awesome albums and even better live shows. If you have a rock or metal-loving bone in your body, do not miss the chance to see these guys live!

I saw Periphery on their 'Juggernaut' tour with guests Nothing More and Wovenwar.

I wish I could say Periphery was the shining star of the concert, but Nothing More was the crowd favorite by far. Why is this? I'm a huge Periphery fan and looked forward to hearing them live. The problem isn't their performance or musicianship, It came down to their songs and the ones they picked to play.

I was most surprised by Periphery not playing any off their EP 'Clear', which had amazing concert songs (Parade of Ashes, Feed the Ground) with great lyrical hooks to please the crowd. They shied away from playing any of these. Why? My guess is because they wanted to play more complex and heavier songs. Most of the time, people had a hard time bobbing their heads to the complicated rhythms and beat changes. You could easily hear the singer when he screamed, but the soft singing got overpowered by the 3 guitarists and heavy bass along with the insane drum solos from Matt the entire night.

Would I recommend this band? Yes, but get their early enough to scream along with Wovenwar and Nothing More before Periphery comes along and it's more like watching a concert than interacting with it.

Awesome show, tiny venue, but that only made it more personal. I had VIP tickets, which allowed me to meet the band before they went on, strum on Mark Holcomb and Misha Mansoor's guitars, and talk to the rest of the band, who were just nice guys overall. The show was nuts, and I don't have any complaints. The mosh pit was hardcore, and I had front row for most of the time, and it was just an awesome vibe. Misha dove into the crowd, guitar and all, and was dropped, but all was well. They played several encores and then promptly told us to GTFO, but not before throwing out some drumsticks and dozens of picks, of which, I was lucky enough to snag a bulb pick. Again, amazing show, even more amazing than I expected, and I will definitely see them again. #heroes

After seeing Xerath perform, I was a little bored of being at the gig, due to their sound really not hitting home for me. However, Periphery seriously stole the show. The tone live is exactly as it is on the tracks. All round tightness from everyone, especially impressed by Spencer. I've seen videos before of Spencer doing some copping out of high notes or not hitting them, yet this gig was very different to that as I could not find fault at all! The sound effects during the whole performance were super good, especially during Masamune.
This gig has no doubt got me back into their music and will hopefully buying the new albums at some point in the near future.
Rick rolling was uncalled for though ;)

Periphery was FANTASTIC. They're sound quality and skill was f$@in' ON POINT. Everything was tuned beautifully and they just really have it their all. They have a great stage presence too, not missing a beat while guitarists are goofing off all over the stage- it was an all around great time. They were touring with Veil of Maya which they are apparently friends with, so there was great support for both groups and on Maya's last set Spencer of Periphery got on stage and screamed a few lines along with them. It was amazing! My husband has loved these guys for years and I always thought they were good, but it wasn't really my jam- after this concert I'm definitely a fan.

Periphery: A household name in the world of djent. Known for their impeccable sense of rhythm, unique sound, and bombastic live performances. On their most recent tour with the Contortionist, Norma Jean, and Infinity Shred, they certainly do not disappoint. I spent every second of that show jumping, singing, and screaming. Phenomenal sound quality, fantastic crowd participation, and top-notch performances from every member.

What a great show! Very technically good as far as sound and accuracy, which is very impressive for how precise the guitar parts are and the fact that there are three guitarists. The crowd was nuts, knew all the words! A good bit of push moshing, but nothing super aggressive. Most people were actually enjoying the show.

First time at one of their shows. The sound was amazing. They pretty much kicked ass on every song. I Would definitely see them on the next tour through Dallas. The crowd was moving nonstop and the vibe was great all throughout the show. Everyone that likes music should check them out.

The periphery show was a total blast. All the bands that performed were exceptionally awesome. I brought my family to there first concert and i nust say they had an awesome first concert experience. I will definitely be taking them back to see these bands again. Great time.

I came for periphery but all the other bands were better. Maybe just my opinion. Periphery played my favorite song scarlet however. I bought a nothing more shirt because periphery shirts didn't have the tour on the back which is stupid. Overall I had an amazing night.