01 April 2002, Cain's, San Diego, US

Review by GI JEFF

Stop whatever you're doing and read this. If you think you've heard all that metal / punk / hardcore has to offer, the new Prong lineup will prove you wrong. With my ears still ringing, I am writing this review trying to recover from the barrage of what was truly one of the best shows I've ever witnessed. Prong is back with 10x the power of anything you've heard from them before.

Being a devout Prong fan throughout their past incarnations (Primitive Origins through Rude Awakening), I went to last night's show expecting a valiant effort to somehow recount the past. Wrong answer. What I saw was on a whole new level. These guys are serious, these guys are professionals, these guys are unreal!

With the addition of an outstanding second guitarist, hammering new bassist and a drummer who delivers the artillery on-target, Prong's new team members are not a life support system for Tommy Victor. On the contrary, they are each a cohesive, equally weighed element in this lethal mix. Tight, complex, and heavy! Playing a range of old and new material, it was amazing to hear what I always thought were phenomenal tracks refined and made so much more 'full' by these guys.

What has always set Prong apart is not only the weight of the music, but the maturity of the lyrical content. Away from the standard issue 'dungeons and dragons' metal kidstuff, Tommy Victor commands pointed, real-life themes from an adult perspective and last night he manned the pulpit with riveting intensity. Arms waiving, fingers pointing, and wild stares, Mr. Victor is all business.

I could go on and on about last night, but the moral of the story is this: Prong has never been sharper and their performance is a 'must-see.' I can only hope that a new album is to come (hell, how could they not get signed?!). In the meantime I have the memory of one absolutely incredible show.

Posted by:CauseShesGotOne
Prong Msg Board on imusic.com

Re-posted by:Ivan D.
Prong Msg Board on abrasiverock.com!