It was a night of great significance Saturday night on Lansdowne Street. Not only was it a homecoming for Godsmack, the iconic band out of Lawrence, MA - it was also the grand opening of MGM Music Hall at Fenway. And on top of THAT, this show was a benefit for the Scars Foundation and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The buzz starts early, with the line quickly forming to check out the new venue, grab some merch in the lobby, as well as get the perfect spot to see the show of a lifetime. Comments about the upcoming show, as well as the venue itself echo throughout the floor crowd, as those with tickets in the balconies take their seats and talk with their neighbors. Taking a quick glance through the floor, it was clear that distance was no concern for Godsmack fans - proven by one sign in the crowd that read “I traveled 2,860 miles to be here!” I was quick to realize that the feeling emanating from the audience was one of community and shared passion for the upcoming event.

Right at 8 PM, Otherwise opens as strong as expected, immediately getting the crowd warmed up to enjoy the night. Embracing the energy of opening night, the frontman, Adrian Patrick, jumps out to the center of the stage and starts with a bang; band members Ryan Patrick (lead guitar,vocals), Nick Bedrosian (bass), and Joe Conner (drums) appear shortly after their lead singer. Old songs and new are played by the band, with the newest singles “Exit Wound” and “Full Disclosure” defining the peak moments of the set. Ending with a message of love, Patrick reminds people that it’s ok to not be ok, that it is important to check in on loved ones, and ends with one last “We love you!” and a quick selfie with the floor. The reaction could not be more positive, with cheers and applause still strong as the band took their leave off the stage.

At intermission, the audience is welcomed to the new venue in grand fashion, noting that before the show even started, over $100,000 was raised - with proceeds split between the two organizations. The crowd erupts with applause, as the purpose of this particular show is not lost on them. The Scars Foundation was established by Godsmack frontman Sully Erna, with the purpose of raising awareness to the importance of addressing mental health issues. Partnered with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, this event held importance that is felt throughout the entirety of the performances and this announcement in between sets.

Finally, the moment everyone is waiting for: 9 PM. It was as if the switch for the lights was also a switch for the crowd - as soon as the lights cut, a roar of excitement and newfound energy took over the 5,000 capacity venue, with people of all ages standing a little bit straighter and putting their attention back on the main stage. Godsmack starts their performance with a video projected over a giant white curtain blocking the stage, getting MGM ready for what was to be a great “welcome home” for the band. The curtain drops, and the band steps out, greeting those that have been waiting for this moment since they purchased tickets. Band members Sully Erna (vocals, guitar), Tony Rombola (guitar), Robbie Merrill (bass), and Shannon Larkin (drums) are in position and are ready to bring the house down. Midway through the performance, MGM Music Hall’s production ability is flexed, with a mini laser show highlighting the band to the beat of their best numbers being played. The energy is consistently strong, never faltering once, throughout the entire night - thousands singing along to their favorite songs.

A night of firsts and bests, without a doubt. As this was my first show of this genre, I can confidently say I had the best of the best to introduce me to this world - and I will be back.