Dayseeker’s Dark Sun Protocol Tour Finale in Los Angeles: A Night of Core
Dayseeker wrapped up their Dark Sun Protocol tour with a mind-blowing finale that honored two years of Dark Sunfor a night every metalcore fan could dream of.
METALCORELIVE SHOW
ALYSSA SUAREZ
11/13/20243 min read
On the final night of Dayseeker’s Dark Sun Protocol tour, Los Angeles was treated to an unforgettable evening that celebrated the depth and variety within the metal genre. This show marked not only the tour’s conclusion but two years since the release of Dark Sun, an album that has profoundly shaped Dayseeker’s sound and fanbase. The night served as a tribute to the album’s influence and a testament to Dayseeker’s growth.
Each band in the thoughtfully crafted lineup contributed a unique element, from electronic textures to heavy breakdowns and powerful vocals, creating a collective sound that embodied the essence of Dayseeker. Kingdom of Giants took the stage first and the crowd was energized with an uplifting metalcore experience filled with hardcore breakdowns and contemporary melodies. Then came Catch Your Breath, who provided powerful vocals that moved the audience even after minor track issues. Their singer, Josh Mowery, performed in a style reminiscent of Dayseeker’s frontman, Rory Rodriguez, with a vocal resonance that tugged at heartstrings and struck an emotional chord that lingered with the audience. Next was Alpha Wolf, who delivered intense, raw energy that felt like a finale in itself. Dayseeker’s bassist Ramone Valerio even joined them onstage for backup screams and the band closed their set with Akudama alongside friends and family, having a blast together keeping the vibes alive.
Catch Your Breath
When it was finally time for Dayseeker to come out, the crowd was evidently eager. The moment they took the stage with Dreamstate, the crowd was immediately hooked. Hearing their songs live brought out nuances that studio recordings simply cannot capture. This immersive experience led me to fall in love with a track I’d never even heard before, Gates of Ivory—a moment that highlighted the power of live music in uncovering new layers of familiar songs. More than just a concert, the night was an opportunity to connect on a deeper level with Dayseeker, offering a shared experience that united fans through music, emotion, and the power of live performance.
Throughout their set, Dayseeker kept the energy high and the crowd engaged. Their set was incredibly paced, shifting flawlessly from heavy, guitar-driven tracks to beautiful piano-led ballads. Making sure to play fan favorites like Burial Plot, Without Me, and Sleeptalk, they had everyone at the venue shouting back their lyrics.
Towards the end of their set, Dayseeker switched up the mood and played their cover of My Immortal, which has been a hit ever since they released a recording of it. This moment was especially moving, resonating with fans who, like Rory, have faced loss—his experience of losing his father is greatly woven throughout their music. The crowd responded with intensity, singing along to the heartfelt lyrics, holding up phone lights, and filming the live performance. Every song they played was like a perfect piece of the night’s raw emotional puzzle. The crowd couldn’t help but be immersed in Dayseeker’s music.
Dayseeker (Rory Rodrigez)
Reflecting on the night, it’s clear that live music offers something irreplaceable. While watching Dayseeker and all the bands perform, I found new depths to each of their music that can’t be replicated in a recording. Seeing the audience react to each band, feeling the collective excitement, and discovering new sides of recognizable songs reminded me of why concerts like this are essential for true fans and newcomers alike.
In all, the last night of the Dark Sun Protocol was a masterful send off full of raw energy and artistry, reminding everyone of Dayseeker’s role in pushing the boundaries of metal. Each opening band perfectly personified a distinct element of Dayseeker’s sound—from fresh energy to emotional lyricism—making the lineup feel like an extension of the band itself. Dark Sun may have been the reason we all came together, but the night transcended the music, offering a chance to witness Dayseeker’s impact on metalcore and leaving fans charged with anticipation for what’s to come.
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