On September 27th, 2024, a hot, dry wind blew across the Vina Robles Amphitheatre, nestled in the Central California mountainside, setting the stage for The Cult's electrifying performance in Paso Robles. With its scenic backdrop and superb acoustics, the venue became a sanctuary for devoted fans eager to immerse themselves in decades of the band's powerful rock legacy.
The show opened with a performance as much theater as musical set by Los Angeles duo Patriarchy. The pair made a name for themselves performing for a huge crowd at last summer's massive Cruel World festival in Pasadena. The young duo carries on the tradition of Goth music established by groups like Bauhaus in the 1980s.
If their name doesn't give it away, Patriarchy's music provocatively explores structural gendered violence and the obstacles to pleasure in the world today. Lead singer Actually Huizenga channels her personal experiences into hedonistic critiques infused with edgy humor. Their live performances feature a unique blend of pantomimed wrestling that is choreographed, consensual, and far removed from the toxic spectacles that often mar live music events, instead transforming oppression into critique and revenge fantasy.
Drummer AJ English joined Huizenga for their Gothic foray. The duo delivered a tight, energetic set with minimal stage banter. They fluidly transitioned between tracks, often weaving in extended harsh noise improvisations as Huizenga and English made quick adjustments on their pedals and drum pads.
The duo focused primarily on their 2022 album, The Unself, while peppering the set with "Hell Was Full" and a reworked version of "He Took It Out" from 2019's Asking for It. The night's highlight was an explosive, choreographed performance of a new track circulating online under "Boy on a Leash."
"If you wanna put a boy on a leash, the strategy is catch and release," Huizenga intoned repeatedly, winding her mic cable into a fist as she approached English, playfully wrapping a lasso around his neck and tugging. At the same time, he responded with a steady beat on his tom drum. The duo performed the entire set standing, allowing English to engage with Huizenga's provocative advances, showcasing a playful subversion of gender dynamics. His imposing figure was both diminished and emphasized, capturing the complexities of power dynamics while still critiquing them.
Overall, Patriarchy's performance was a compelling mix of art, humor, and incisive commentary, leaving the audience entertained and provoked to think more deeply about the explored themes. While it may have initially seemed an odd choice to open for the hard rock set to come, Patriarchy's performance made sense by cementing The Cult's roots in early Goth music.
Under a star-filled sky in the crystal-clear mountain air, anticipation mounted for The Cult's appearance as smoke enveloped the stage and the lights dimmed once more. The roar of excitement escalated, and when the band took the stage, they made an immediate statement. They launched into "In the Clouds," which set a high-energy tone for the evening. Following up with the tracks "Rise" and "Wild Flower," the band instantly transported fans back to the '80s and '90s. Celebrating their 40th anniversary on this tour, The Cult proved they still possess the same electrifying sound that made them legendary, with many in the audience praising the impressive 17-song performance.
Mid-set, the band slowed with an acoustic rendition of "Edie" that showcased their lyrical depth and emotional resonance. As soon as the last chord faded, the energy surged back with fan favorites like "Lucifer" and "Fire Woman," leading into an explosive finale with "Love Removal Machine."
Though the band exited the stage, the fervent crowd demanded more. They returned for an encore, delighting fans with "Brother Wolf, Sister Moon," followed by their defining hit, "She Sells Sanctuary." This last song turned the amphitheatre into a sea of voices as the iconic riff echoed through the venue, closing the night on a powerful note.
Overall, The Cult delivered an unforgettable evening that blended nostalgia with fresh intensity. Astbury's enigmatic stage presence and Duffy's unparalleled guitar mastery kept the energy levels soaring throughout the performance. This concert was a vivid reminder of why The Cult remains a dominant force in rock music after all these years. With a setlist that flawlessly integrated classic tracks with newer material, they captivated the audience from start to finish. The intimate ambiance of the Vina Robles Amphitheatre provided the perfect backdrop for this stunning masterclass in live rock performance.
