Music

Baroness brings intense energy to a packed Syracuse show

Baroness brings intense energy to Syracuse

Review: The sludge metal act’s prowess as performers and genuine connection to The Song & Dance crowd make for an unforgettable night.

Baroness Lead Vocalist John Baizley opens the show with
Baroness singer John Baizley opens Wednesday’s show at The Song & Dance with “Rays on Pinion” from the band’s debut album.

The Song & Dance was transformed into a metal powerhouse Wednesday as Baroness rocked the stage with their nostalgic celebration of the band’s first two albums Red Album and Blue Record.

The intimate downtown Syracuse venue was the perfect location for fans to reminisce in headbanging unison as the band played through the albums back-to-back. 

Baroness performs
Baroness performs “Isak” from their first release, ‘The Red Album,’ at The Song & Dance.

The Savannah-based “sludge metal” band was met with cheers as its members emerged from the backstage curtains. With a couple of quick smiles and waves to the fans, they opened the show with the song “Rays of Pinion,” and kept the energy going for 21 more. 

Syracuse fans matched Baroness‘ energy throughout the set and at most times, was a blur of bodies either swaying to melodic riffs or pushing each other in the pit. There was no question as to who was performing that night, as most fans had put on their newly purchased “Red & Blue Tour” merch before the opening act. 

Baroness Lead Guitarist Gina Gleason gazes out to the crowd while performing
Baroness lead guitarist Gina Gleason gazes out at the crowd while performing “Isak” on Wednesday.
Baroness Drummer Sebastian Thomson performs
Baroness drummer Sebastian Thomson performs “The Birthing” at The Song & Dance.

Female-fronted death metal band Dawn of Ouroboros warmed up the crowd with intense screams from vocalist Chelsea Murphy. Murphy and the rest of her bandmates had no shortage of energy as they moved around the stage playing hits from their latest album Bioluminescence.

Dawn of Ouroboros performs in front of a packed house at The Song & Dance on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 in Syracuse, New York. Photo by Kayla Breen.
Dawn of Ouroboros performs Wednesday in front of a packed house at The Song & Dance in Syracuse.