Theory of a Deadman
@ The Ritz Raleigh, October 5th
Photos by Michael Macsuga
Review by Martini Lady
My ears are STILL ringing from a great show Saturday night! Theory didn’t disappoint, delivering on the songs we know and love with a splash of what’s to come on their new album release (“Say Nothing”) January 31, 2020 to start the year off right.
Formed in 2002, Canadian post-grunge, alt-rock band Theory’s headlining tour efforts are solid, holding their own with a growing fan base. The crowd at The Ritz Raleigh Saturday night spanned about three generations, age-wise, proving that their sound has wide appeal.
Songs spanning the band’s 16 years-worth of (six) albums were represented: “Lowlife”, “Not Meant to Be”, “Santa Monica”, “Bitch Came Back”, “Angel”, “Bad Girlfriend”, “Hate My Life”, Rx (Medicate)”…and more, plus a new song released last month “History of Violence” from their upcoming album. There was something for everyone!

Joey Dandeneau – drums, backing vocals
One note on the lighting. While it was dynamic, it would have worked well in a much larger venue. Being that the The Ritz is small and relatively intimate, the magnitude of the lights behind the band – shining directly toward the crowd – were overpowering, obliterating the band from sight for moments and strobing at times so frequently that they could be considered seizure-producing. There were some dramatic, moody moments as well – the stage flooded with deep red hues, nice effect.

Dean Back – bass, backing vocals
Great show and, like everyone else there, I can’t wait for the new album to drop.
Tyler Connolly – lead vocals, lead and rhythm guitar
Dave Brenner – rhythm and lead guitar, backing vocals
Dean Back – bass, backing vocals
Joey Dandeneau – drums, backing vocals