FROM ASHES TO NEW / CONNECT IT – LIVE AT AURA

FROM ASHES TO THE NEW / CONNECT IT – LIVE AT AURA

By Kerri Nelson

The Halloween spirit was alive and well at the Aura in Portland, Maine, and if it wasn't for me, New Years Day, From Ashes to New, and Set It Off delivered a night of unforgettable performances. From costumes and theatrics to crowd-surfing and mosh pits, each band—and their crews—brought a unique flavor to the terrifying celebration.

The first band to take the stage was the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles… or rather, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's If not for mefully decked out in turtle suits. Performing in Maine for the first time, they wasted no time winning over the crowd with their high energy set. Tracks like “Blameless” and “Feel Me Now” had the crowd raising their hands and moving to the beat, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

Between songs, the band kept things light, showing off their humor and staying true to their ninja turtle personas. They dedicated “No Thanks to You” to everyone who has said they can't eat pizza for every meal, earning cheers and laughter from the crowd. They even invited fans to “show some karate in the pit”, mixing playful antics with the high energy of their performance.

Many of the songs in their set were taken from their 2024 album Everything you wanteda testament to their ability to combine metalcore grit with catchy melodies. As they closed out their set, the audience – a mix of first-timers and long-time fans – were completely “out of their shells”, primed and ready for the night's escalating intensity.

Stemming from their 2022 debut album PraiseIf Not for Me has steadily built a reputation for delivering high energy performances. Their mix of heavy riffs, melodic hooks and infectious humor made them the perfect band to kick off the Halloween-themed concert, setting the tone for a night to remember.

It was next new year, brings Halloween to life with a full horror-inspired wardrobe. Each member of the band transformed into iconic horror characters, including Jason, Chucky, Ghostface and Sam, while frontwoman Ash Costello took center stage as the vampire Pennywise. Commanding the stage with a mixture of powerful screams and soaring vocals, Ash's dynamic presence was electric. Her voice channels the essence of badass women in the rock and metalcore scene, combining power and emotion seamlessly.

Their setlist was packed, with fan favorites such as “Vampyre” and “Shut Up” which had the crowd, especially the ladies, hanging on to every word. Ash's connection with the audience was undeniable, whipping the room into a frenzy with energetic calls for participation, creating a unified wave of energy.

Songs like “Fearless” and “Gangsta” showcased the band's chemistry, with each member fully embracing their horror personas while delivering tight, high-octane performances. Guitarists Nikki Misery and Jeremy Valentyne entertained with wild antics, bassist Brandon Wolfe laid down thunderous grooves and drummer Tommy Rockoff added theatrics, spinning sticks and adding character-driven touches as Ghostface. The emotionally charged closer, “Hurts Like Hell,” left the crowd in awe, covered in Ash's playful promise of a T-shirt to the most intense pit-goer – a fitting Halloween.

Hailing from Anaheim, California, New Year's Day first burst onto the scene in the early 2000s, gaining traction through MySpace—a nostalgic nod to the platform that launched them. In March 2024 they released their fifth album, Half Black Heartan evolution from their 2007 debut, My dear. The latest record leans heavily on spontaneous screams and deep guitar riffs, solidifying the band's transformation into a heavier, darker sound while staying true to their roots.

From Ashes to New didn't just play – they dominated the stage with a performance that was equal parts passion and fire. Kicking off their set with explosive tracks like “Nightmare” and “Monster”, they unleashed a sonic onslaught that sent the crowd into an electrifying wave. Their signature blend of rap-rock, ferocious screams and melodic harmonies provided the perfect backdrop for the chaos that erupted in the pit.

Vocalists Danny Case and Matt Brandyberry displayed impeccable chemistry, with Danny's soaring, emotionally charged vocals driving the choruses and Matt's raps injecting raw energy into each verse. Together, they brought tracks like “Heartache” and “My Name” to life, hitting harder than ever on a live stage. Meanwhile, guitarist Lance Dowdle laid down intricate riffs with precision and drummer Mat Madiro kept the tension soaring with thunderous beats that shook the venue.

The band's connection with the crowd was palpable, turning their set into more than just a show – it was an experience. A cheering competition, designed to break the tour's record of 118 decibels, had the audience screaming, clapping and raising their hands simultaneously, adding to the electric atmosphere. Mid-set, Danny took a moment to acknowledge their journey, expressing gratitude for their fans' unwavering support. “Tonight, this is your place to feel alive, to feel free,” he declared, inspiring a new wave of energy that swept through the crowd.

Photos by Kerri Nelson

As they closed out their set, the pit opened wide for the final track, bodies surged forward and fists pumped in time with the music. Even fans in elaborate Halloween costumes threw themselves into the mayhem, a fittingly cathartic end to an ensemble that deftly balanced raw tension with heartfelt connection.

From Ashes to New have been grinding since their formation in 2013, making their debut with Day One and the breakout single 'Through It All'. Although often compared to Linkin Park, the band has firmly established its own sound, combining hip-hop and rock with a fresh perspective. Their latest album, Faint (2023), builds on their signature style, adding depth and energy sure to leave anyone listening feeling empowered and ready to take on the world.

Turn it off closed the night with a Halloween-themed theatrics that combined carnival creepiness with high-energy pop-punk anthems. The band's crew joined in the fun, donning masks and costumes, while an on-screen countdown set the stage for hits such as 'Parasite', 'Fake Ass Friends' and crowd favorite 'Wolf in Sheep's Clothing'. The visuals and atmosphere were masterfully created, from the eerie lighting to the playful, spooky elements scattered throughout the set.

The band's interaction with the crowd was electric, with frontman Cody Carson, dressed as Star-Lord from Guardians of the Galaxy, leading the way. He encouraged fans to open the pit for “Evil People” and later led a raucous sing-along during “Forever Stuck in Our Youth,” splitting the crowd down the middle to compete for the loudest section. His infectious energy made it impossible for anyone to stay still.

Although their costumes didn't last long – aside from the laughs – the energy never wavered. The hauntingly atmospheric “Kill the Lights” shifted to the emotional intensity of “Hypnotized,” showcasing the band's ability to flip seamlessly between theatrics and deeply emotional moments. It was a testament to their versatility and their command of the stage. One of the biggest highlights of the night came during “I'll Sleep When I'm Dead,” when Cody switched instruments, jumping behind the drums as Maxx Danziger took over on vocals. This unexpected role reversal gave the crowd a new burst of excitement and kept the momentum high. But the surprises did not stop there.

The night reached its climax when Ash Costello made a triumphant return to the stage for a performance of “Partners in Crime”, joining Turn it off for an unforgettable high-energy finale that left the crowd humming long after the last note. The entire show was a perfect blend of playful, theatrical fun and heart-pounding punk rock, proving why Turn it off continues to be one of the most exciting live acts on the scene.

Turn it off has left their mark on the music scene for over a decade. Formed in 2008, the band quickly became known for their unique blend of pop-punk and theatrical elements, capturing the attention of fans with their energetic performances and catchy, emotionally charged anthems. Their debut album, Cinemawas released in 2010, introducing their signature sound and setting the stage for the band's evolution. Over the years, Turn it off they continued to develop and refine their music, embracing a more elegant and expansive sound with each album.

Their latest release, Elsewhere (2023), sees the band take a bold step forward, combining their pop-punk roots with influences from alternative rock and electronic music. The album reflects their growth not only as musicians but also as storytellers, with a more introspective and mature approach to topics such as self-discovery, mental health and the search for belonging. Throughout their journey, Turn it off is constantly evolving, balancing their theatrical live performances with increasingly complex and nuanced songwriting, while maintaining the dynamic, exciting performances that first won them a devoted fan base.

The Halloween show at Aura was more than just a concert. it was a celebration of music, theater and community. Each band embraced the holiday spirit with creative costumes and electrifying performances. The crowd, from first-timers to seasoned fans, left the venue energized and ready to carry the Halloween vibe into the next day. This show was a testament to the power of live music to bring people together, costumes and all, for a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Editors note: Due to external conditions, AMP was only allowed to photograph From Ashes to New. Hopefully the next Set It Off tour will allow us to offer our readers a more in-depth photographic journey.

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