What unfolded at House of Blues Chicago wasn’t your typical rock show, it was something far more intimate, raw, and emotional. Breaking Benjamin frontman Benjamin Burnley, Flyleaf’s powerhouse Lacey Sturm, and guitarist Josh Sturm brought a stripped-down set that turned a packed venue into what felt like a private session among friends. Performing an 19-song acoustic set that pulled from their respective catalogs as well as a collection of carefully chosen covers, the trio leaned into vulnerability, and the crowd leaned right back.
Opening with Burnley’s “So Cold” and immediately following with Sturm’s “Fully Alive,” the night established its rhythm early, alternating between each of the duos respective bands songs for the majority of the night that also ended with a handful of covers. Highlights from the setlist included “Dear Agony,” “I’m So Sick,” “Breath,” and “Ashes of Eden,” each reimagined with haunting acoustic arrangements that showcased the vocal chemistry between Burnley and Sturm. Both singers took turns shining on their own material while also stepping in to harmonize or provide backup, offering a rare look at two distinctive voices blending into one powerful experience.
Josh Sturm’s guitar work was the glue that held the night together, fluid and perfectly paced. His playing created space for Burnley and Lacey to lead with storytelling and stage presence, letting their vocals do the work. Ben stepped away from guitar duties and embraced his role as a pure vocalist for the night, delivering a mix of grit and grace with playful crowd interactions and emotional depth.
The night’s biggest surprises came from their choice of covers, each adding emotional texture to the performance. Silverchair’s “Tomorrow” was gritty and nostalgic, “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton was delivered with soft reverence, and their take on Nirvana’s “All Apologies” stripped away the angst in favor of sincerity. The evening closed with a chilling rendition of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters,” all three performers returning to the stage to deliver a final, unified bow.
For fans of either artist, or lovers of acoustic performances, this was a standout moment in a summer filled with noise. Burnley and Sturm didn’t just perform, they connected. And in doing so, they reminded us that sometimes, turning the volume down is exactly what it takes to feel something louder.
Unfortunately, by the time you read this this small tour will be over, so I hoped you were able to check it out and enjoy it as much as I did.
GALLERY: Benjamin Burnley and Josh & Lacey Sturm at House of Blues in Chicago, Illinois (July 25, 2025)
