Black Label Society’s Madison takeover started before the show even began. The night prior featured an album release party at a local bar alongside a local rock station, celebrating the release of Engines Of Demolition. Some fans even got early copies and meet and greet access with the band.
The day of the show, more fans lined up at The Sylvee for another meet and greet. Some even brought guitars to be signed, setting the tone for what felt like a full day celebration of all things Zakk Wylde.
The lineup alone made this show special. Not only was it Black Label Society, but also Zakk Sabbath, meaning both of Zakk Wylde’s bands in one night. Opening the show was Dark Chapel.
Even arriving close to start time, the line wrapped around the block. The show sold out day of, filling the venue with fans in Black Label Society gear. The merch line stretched across the entire room for much of the night, easily one of the busiest booths I’ve seen.
Dark Chapel kicked things off at 7:30. Fronted by guitarist Dario Lorina, the band delivered sludgy grooves mixed with melodic hooks and bluesy grit. Opening with “Afterglow,” “Hollow Smile” and “Sign of Life,” the set immediately connected. Their cover of “Ain’t No Sunshine” brought a blues soaked moment that the crowd fully leaned into. A strong opener and a band worth watching.
Next came Zakk Sabbath. Seeing Wylde tear through Black Sabbath classics live was everything you’d expect. “Supertzar” opened the set, followed by staples like “Children of the Grave,” “Fairies Wear Boots,” and “N.I.B.” The highlight came during “War Pigs” when Wylde walked into the crowd and played a long solo from the middle of the pit, guitar behind his head and eventually picking with his mouth. Pure showmanship.
Black Label Society closed the night. Wylde returned in his signature kilt and vest and launched into “Funeral Bell.” The set was packed with crushing riffs, soaring solos, and Wylde’s signature pinch harmonics that cut through the room. His connection with the crowd was constant, fists raised, guitar lifted high, feeding off the energy.
The emotional centerpiece came with “In This River,” performed on piano as a tribute to Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul. The room went silent before erupting in applause.
Later, the band debuted “Ozzy’s Song” from Engines Of Demolition. Photos of Ozzy filled the backdrop as the crowd watched the first live performance. It was a powerful moment that clearly moved fans, with chants for Ozzy breaking out afterward.
The set also included “Name In Blood,” “Destroy and Conquer,” “The Blessed Hellride,” “Suicide Messiah,” and a massive closer with “Stillborn.” A surprise performance of Ozzy’s “No More Tears” sent the crowd even further.
The entire show was filmed for Veeps, and if this tour hits your city, it’s absolutely one you don’t want to miss.
