Eyes Set to Kill & 15 Years of "Reach"
This past weekend I had the absolute honor to attend Big Rob's in Ft. Worth, TX to catch a band that has molded my musical journey just as much as many others: Eyes Set to Kill. If you were a scene or emo kid back in the day, I'd guarantee that Eyes Set to Kill was one of those bands that blew you away from the first listen. Accompanied by Sleye & RVNT, the night was full of amazing music, magical memories, and feelings of happiness that will be tough to match.
Sleye was the local opener for the night and got the night off to a phenomenal start. I had no idea what to expect but they fit the bill perfectly. With a blend of emo rap, some metalcore vocals, and lyrics that cut you like a knife, the entire set was a vibe. And the fact that Sleye jumped onto the show last minute is a testament to their musical talent. I'm sure this won't be the last time the people of Dallas & Ft. Worth are graced with their presence (I know it's not. Keep your eyes peeled for October).
Hailing from Virginia Beach, RVNT took the stage next and kept the party going with some ferocious metalcore. With a masterclass ability to blend groovy riffs, flawless vocals, devil-like gutturals, & some intense breakdowns, the entire venue was drawn to them like moths to a flame. And, if that's not enough for you, the lyrics capture you in an emotional chokehold. It's amazing the band doesn't need to travel with a paramedic with the amount of headbanging I saw. Not only were they world class musicians, but they're also word class people who are extremely humble and not taking this for granted. I'd put my money where my mouth is and bet that it's only a matter of time before they're back and get to party with DFW on bigger stages.
After an entire night of moshing, it was finally time for the moment everyone was waiting for: Eyes Set to Kill. For starters, the band consists of some of the nicest people I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. From being extremely humble and kind to appreciative of each and every fan, Eyes Set to Kill really is "that band". I learned of Eyes Set to Kill way back in the days of middle school when I used to come home and immediately search YouTube for bands to add to my iTunes & Limewire library. Upon hearing "Darling" for the first time, I was immediately hooked. Although the band has had some lineup changes over the years, the current lineup consists of: Caleb Clifton (drums), Alexia Rodriguez (vocals, guitar), Anissa Rodriguez (bass), & Jeremy Anderson (RVNT, touring guitar and vocals).
The moment the band took the stage, the crowd erupted with a roar of applause and jaws hitting the floor. With studio-quality live vocals, some amazing guitar and bass work, and some of the crispiest drumming I've heard, the band did not miss a beat as they played the night away. Each song was even more magical than the last. One of the best moments had to have been when Anderson told the crowd to split the pit down the middle, but instead of a Wall of Death, it was more of a "Wall of Embrace" where fans hugged and had some party vibes! Oh! How could I forget the closing of the show? As the band left the stage, Alexia remained to play "Give You My All" and I was brought to tears.
It might have taken me over 10 years to finally get the chance to see the band play, but this was easily one of the best shows that I've ever had the luxury of attending. Thank you Eyes Set to Kill for being one of the, arguably the most, influential scene/ emo band ever. Thank you for one of the best concert experiences ever. Thank you.
