KRockathon in need of complete overhaul instead of just a reboot
Musical critique can be complex as it requires going beyond personal preferences to understand the intentions of the artists and how well they execute them while also considering the target audience. These were the thoughts that kept coming to mind during the 2025 Sweet Grass KRockathon Reboot. The event, held on a scorching day with temperatures feeling like they were in the upper 90s, showcased a lineup of bands that left both the crowd and performers puzzled.
The day kicked off with Set It Off, a group from Tampa that blends pop-punk, emo, R&B, and hip-hop elements. Their performance of “Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” was accompanied by an excessive use of backing tracks, which, while common in the industry, left much to be desired. Despite this, a small but enthusiastic portion of the audience near the stage seemed to enjoy the set, even forming the first mosh pit of the day.
Following Set It Off, Alien Ant Farm took the stage, known for their 2001 cover of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal.” Their genre-bending music that straddles nu-metal, alt metal, and hard rock injected a refreshing energy into the event. However, there was a noticeable disconnect between the band and the audience. Although the band delivered enjoyable performances of songs like “Glow” and closed with “Smooth Criminal,” the lukewarm response from the crowd was a missed opportunity for a more engaging interaction.
Drowning Pool, with their heavier post-grunge sound, contributed to the mosh pit energy of the event. Despite lead vocalist Ryan McCombs needing a break during the set, the band’s rendition of Billy Idol’s “Rebel Yell” and their hit “Bodies” were crowd favorites. Candlebox, a veteran act from the early ’90s, brought a mix of soaring vocals, impressive guitar solos, and captivating songwriting to the stage. Their diversity shone through, although their set was briefly interrupted due to a medical emergency in the audience.
As Candlebox resumed their performance, the crowd’s enthusiasm intensified for the final act of the night, Nothing More. Their tight performance and crisp sound quality pleased the audience, with an uptick in crowd surfers and general concert revelry. Despite being a wall of distortion, Nothing More delivered a high-energy set that captivated the crowd, albeit marred by yet another medical incident during the show.
In conclusion, the 2025 Sweet Grass KRockathon Reboot offered a mix of performances ranging from underwhelming to outstanding, leaving attendees with a memorable music experience. Each band brought its unique sound and charisma to the stage, catering to a diverse audience that may have been searching for different elements in the music. While challenges like technical issues and medical emergencies interrupted the flow of the event, the resilience of both the performers and the audience made for a memorable and dynamic show.