What a week for Maine, what a week for metal and hardcore.

A far cry from silver trumpets, Portland rolled out the blood-red carpet for Cruel Hand, razing Geno’s to the ground –

Okay, rewind…

Concert reviews are cool, but what about a PARKING review?

Imagine:

It’s Saturday evening, and not only is Geno’s sold out, but Emo Night’s taking over Aura, The Disco Biscuits are grooving at the State, and the puck is just about to drop at the Mariner’s game…

In other words, Hell.

You drive slowly, strangling the wheel as the clock on your dashboard marches forward, not the least bit concerned that your blood pressure resembles a long-division problem…

Teeth clenched, you navigate the vapor trail left by kids dashing to Henry’s, perplexed by the stampede of Nike Dunks and white pants…

Wow, that does sound like Hell…

Never mind, I’m having flashbacks…

Okay, back to the music!

If one thing stands out here at home, it’s the genuine passion for music, friends, and family.

Secret Work opened the show, but based on the crowd-killing and number of people screaming every word – this all-star quintet could have headlined.

Crushing fan favorites from their eponymous debut and its successor, Secret Work set the tone, captivating a packed club.

***

As Cruel Hand hit the stage, bodies flew by me, streaming for the pit like it was the last train home after a terrible week…

The band hadn’t even struck a chord when the crowd started surging, all the usual suspects tasting blood in the air…

“If you don’t know, you better ask someone!” Spat Link, his trademark braids swinging madly.

All gave some, and some gave all –

And some will still be feeling it next week!

From Bangor to Bucksport, people made time to pay homage to Maine royalty, playing their part in keeping this community afloat.