Here’s Joe Becht’s BLS concert review.

Black Label Society came to the House of Blues in Chicago and conquered. The venue was packed to the rafters with a rabid fan base providing a non-stop energy that enhanced Zakk Wylde’s brilliant showmanship. Over 2 hours earlier, Wylde played the National Anthem before the Bulls game vs. Toronto at the United Center and then hustled back 4 ½ miles to the House of Blues for the show. Very cool.

Rating for COC: 8 out of 10

If that wasn’t enough, Corrosion of Conformity, opened the festivities with a savagely kick ass set. The quartet delivered their excellent brand of heavy, stoner southern metal with flashes of aggressive speed. Highlights included ‘Albatross”, “13 Angels” and “Clean My Wounds” with an extended jam.

Rating for BLS: 9 out of 10

Black Label Society hit the stage about 45 minutes later and blasted out song after song to the delight of the Chicago chapter. I can’t remember the last time The House of Blues was so packed, and the fans proved to be incredibly loyal. The BLS logo appeared on shirts, jean jackets, leather jackets and back tattoos worn by at least 85% of the crowd. Zakk stood on his trademark platform playing blistering guitar, while the rest of the band were completely entertaining pros. Fellow guitarist Dario Lorina was magnificent in the way he enhanced Zakk’s playing. A great stage show provided an excellent spectacle as Black Label Society lead off with “Genocide Junkies” and “Funeral Bell.” Zakk just played and had very little banter with the crowd until his band introductions, which was 40 minutes into the set.. ‘Blessed Hellride” turned things down a notch but was still great. Other highlights included “Overlord,” “Concrete Jungle” and new song “Room of Nightmares.”

This concert review was written by Joe Becht.  Follow him on Twitter @JoeBecht