Concert Review – Freedoms Reign

Freedoms Reign Review
Erika War, RockNotes

On Sunday, Nov 4, 2013 I had the extreme pleasure of seeing Freedoms Reign perform live at Dingbatz in New Jersey.  I took the trek all the way from Eastern Long Island, over the bridges,  just to see this powerful band play, and let me tell you it was definitely worth it. They never fail to put on an amazing show, no matter the size of the audience or the size of the venue.

Freedoms Reign was started by Victor Arduini, founding member and former guitarist of Fates Warning.  Victor brings his unique style to this band, a style that sets him apart and above all other guitarists.  And he is relentless.  I took my non-metal friend with me to this show and when it was over I looked back to see how she was doing.  She had a look of complete and utter shock on her face.  “Uh-oh”, I thought.

“What did you think?” I hesitatingly asked her.

“That was……unbelievable.  They were incredible.” Her eyes still followed Vic as he removed his equipment from the stage.  “He was unreal.  He never stopped.  He never took a breath.  And the talent! The whole band, such energy.  They were flawless.”  She kept staring at the stage.  And indeed, this is what I have heard at other Freedoms Reign shows as well.  In June in 2013 at a venue called The Zebra Club I had the pleasure of seeing them as well.  People said that they were true professionals; tight, energetic and perfect.

Freedoms Reign performed with their new lead singer, Jeff Craig, who has an incredible voice and great stage presence.  Indeed, all members have great stage presence, totally professional, in tune with what each other is doing, and still conveying a sense of fun.  A great  camaraderie exists between bassist Michael Jones and guitarist Tom Vumbeck.  Drummer Christopher Judge brings his brutal, pounding time-keeping to the mix.  All in all a band that blends seamlessly on stage, consummate professionals and unmatched talent.

From the opening song, “Believe”, they jumped right into it, followed by “Long Way”.  The third song, “No Excuses”, was my favorite, partially because of Vic’s amazing guitar skills.  I was blown away. They completed the set with  “Up from Down”, “Brother”, “Shadows of Doubt”, “Looking around” and finally closing with “Ritual”.  As my friend kept repeating that night; flawless.

If you want to see a great band who kills every concert, take the trek no matter how far and come see Freedoms Reign.  You won’t be disappointed.