Past, Present, and Future Legends: Life Of Agony & Vision Of Disorder

On January 28th, 2011, after sitting in some grueling Friday afternoon traffic, we arrived at the Starland Ballroom in Slayerville New Jersey around 7 o’clock. Why did we travel for over 2 hours on a cold winter night? Well, we needed to experience round 2 of the Life Of Agony and Vision Of Disorder concert. The two bands had performed together in New York City this past December, and they left everyone hungry for some more musical power.

Performing that night with the two legendary bands was Anaka from New York City, a band that makes it clear from the moment they step on stage that they want to get the crowd riled up. Luckily, we were able to catch their entire set and they proved to us why Life Of Agony asked them to be part of the show. The Pallis brothers are true Metalheads, and together create a unique blend of music.

After Anaka’s set we headed to the backstage area and ran into VOD’s drummer Brendon Cohen who was anxiously waiting for the gig. Then we headed to VOD’s dressing rooms were the rest of the band was. We had always heard that the guys in VOD are very genuine people, and this was definitely confirmed after hanging out with them.

In the midst of all the backstage shenanigans, we ran into Johnny Kelly from Type O Negative and Seventh Void, and Biohazard’s drummer Danny Schuler. Once inside Life Of Agony’s dressing room we got to meet their singer Keith Caputo, who is a very nice guy and who was somewhat nervous about performing.


Once it was show time for VOD, the entire backstage area cleared off, and the venue was finally packed. The band kicked off their set with Choked, which immediately got the crowd moving uncontrollably. Long Island’s Hardcore legends kept the intensity throughout their entire 45 minute set and reminded everyone why they are the best band to ever come from Long Island. The highlight of their performance was when they performed two brand new songs, which were welcomed with arms wide open by all the VOD fans. One of the songs is called “Hard Times” and the other one is known as the “Slow Song”. While both songs blend in elements of the “Green Album” and Imprint, the bands new music has evolved once again. We can’t wait to listen to the new record!

After all the concert attendees grabbed a drink and cleared the sweat from their foreheads, it was time for Life Of Agony. Right before they stepped on stage, we spoke with their singer Keith Caputo backstage and when we asked him if he was nervous, he responded: “I am scared! I am also very anxious, and very excited! This is what I live for.” Needless to say, Life Of Agony got the crowd moving, singing along, and grooving. It’s refreshing to see so many pretty girls at a rock show!

When we saw Life Of Agony in December, we mentioned that we thought they were good, but that Biohazard should have headlined that show. We also felt that the band did not perform at their very best. Well, this time around they proved to us why they are considered legends by millions of fans worldwide!



Special thanks to VOD, Brenna Chase, Alex Dementia & crew, and to Joe LaRusso!

Pictures by Joe LaRusso!

Related links:
Life Of Agony
Vision Of Disorder
Anaka