As the stage lights flickered to life and the crowd’s buzz reached a crescendo, it was clear that The Rockpile was about to witness something special on that Monday evening of September 11, 2017. As a photojournalist capturing the essence of the night, I found myself amidst an electric atmosphere, eager to see what The Fell had in store.
The evening kicked off with local support from The Jacob Hamilton Band, setting the stage with their infectious energy and paving the way for Second Pass to take the spotlight as direct support. But it was when The Fell stepped onto the stage that the real magic began.
Comprised of an impressive lineup featuring the legendary Billy Sheehan on bass, the versatile Mike Krompass on guitar, the captivating Anthony De La Torre on vocals, and the powerhouse Randy Cooke on drums, The Fell wasted no time in unleashing their sonic prowess upon the eager audience.
From the first riff to the final note, it was evident that these seasoned musicians were in a league of their own. Billy Sheehan’s masterful bass lines reverberated through the venue, anchoring each song with precision and finesse. Mike Krompass’s guitar work was nothing short of mesmerizing, weaving intricate melodies that danced between the realms of rock and roll.
Frontman Anthony De La Torre commanded the stage with the charisma of a seasoned performer, his vocals soaring to new heights and captivating the audience with every word. And behind the kit, Randy Cooke proved why he’s regarded as one of the finest drummers in the industry, driving the rhythm forward with relentless energy and precision.
The setlist was a rollercoaster of emotions, ranging from hard-hitting rock anthems to soul-stirring ballads, each song resonating with the crowd in its own unique way. Highlights included electrifying renditions of fan favorites like “Man Unkind” and “Young Jack Sparrow,” each one leaving the audience begging for more.
But perhaps the most memorable moment of the night came when none other than Kim Mitchell himself graced the venue with his presence, a testament to the caliber of talent that The Fell possesses. It was a surreal sight to see such a legendary figure in the audience, showing his support for a band that is undoubtedly destined for greatness.
As the final chords faded into the night and the echoes of applause filled the air, it was clear that The Fell had left an indelible mark on The Rockpile that evening. With their unparalleled musicianship, magnetic stage presence, and undeniable chemistry, they had not only delivered a concert but had created an experience that would be remembered for years to come.
And as I packed up my camera gear, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for being a witness to such a remarkable performance. The Fell had truly rocked The Rockpile, leaving their mark on Toronto’s vibrant music scene and leaving their fans eagerly awaiting their next unforgettable performance.
I’m Drew, the founder and editor of Front of the Stage. I have a strong love for music and photography, which started at a very young age. There’s just something I love about experiencing live music and capturing memories that will last a lifetime, and that’s how Front of the Stage came to be.
