Blackened Show Review

          Death Smiles at the Cubby Bear

Blackened: Mike Streicher, John Dent, Vince Ochwat, Kevin M. Buck

Okay. That horrible winter across the nation is just about over now. We can relax and get back to seeing more great shows, such as Blackened. So, let's rehash what their loyal fans may have missed during this frozen tundra of hibernation. Jim Snedeker, Lead Guitar is now a proud father and has retired form the group Blackened. On board now, is no other than legendary lead guitarist Kevin M. Buck.Die hard Metal Heads may remember Buck in local acts such as Blizzard of Oz and Battery. Now after battling sleep deprivation and a broken down tour bus, Kevin Buck is living the dream and the nightmares of performing with the ultimate Metallica tribute band in the Chicagoland area.  During our interview Buck said, "This feels great actually. I was lucky to have the guys in Blackened think that I was able to play this stuff. This really feels awesome."

Mike Streicher 

A few bass geeks will only have the inside information regarding the Morley Boost & Fuzz Pedal. But what they do not know is that bassist, Mike Streicher helped test the new prototype and was able to offer some outside field knowledge.  "The Power Fuzz Wah effects can be used independently or simultaneously, explained Stericher. After breaking a few switches and replacing some bulbs, Morley was able to work out the bugs, he adds to say. The fuzz section for the Cliff Burton Tribute Series was set up  only for instrument level playing. However, Mike Streicher was performing higher frequency levels and needed more punch. Shortly after, Mike Striker found himself at the convention center in Anaheim, California. Morley asked Striker to demonstrate the Fuzz Pedal in front of musical royalty, Mr. Ray Burton (Cliff Burton's father). To most bass players, this would be an honor.  It was an incredble honor to play Cliff's [Burton] songs for Ray, explained Streicher. "To have Ray be very happy with what I played and to quote Mr.Burton "You would have made Cliff proud," was an awesome experience. Ray Burton was very thankful of my involvement and has made me part of his family now. Overall, this was a humbling moment in my life," Mike Streicher expressed with deep admiration. 

John Dent

There are more humbling attributes in the hearts of Blackened. Always a warm welcome for their fans, Blackened pours out vibrant energy for their loyal spectators. Headlining at the Cubby Bear with all the Metallica classics such as Creeping Death, Seek & Destroy and Master of Puppets was just the beginning for these stage crazy fans. A huge mosh pit stirred up the excitement for awhile as laser lights and purple smoke filled this thunder dome with Death Smiles of doom for Blackened spectators. Next it was time to quiet the mood with Fade to Back. The roar of the crowd simmered to a silent whisper as John Dent (rhythm and lead guitarist) began to play the melodic intro. Furthermore, Blackened pumped out 90 minutes pure thrash music with other well-known hits such as One and Battery.  The Cubby Bear's structural foundation nearly crumbled as drummer, Vince Ochwat pounded the skins like a human wrecking ball. Frontman John Dent thanked his loyal fans for their energy and support that night.  There were no fights or arrests to report, The Cubby Bear's management had a level of professionalism that was outstanding as well. Blackened enthusiasts had their raging appetites fulfilled as they left with their heads full of booze, amplified sounds ringing in their ears, and going back to the front with a good time for all.