Wednesday night, Houston’s House of Blues hosted yet another epic show, featuring two legendary artists: Jerry Cantrell and Filter. Both brought their own dedicated fans, but everyone in that room had one thing in common…we were ready for a night of nostalgia, packed with classic ‘90s tunes and chill alternative vibes. And that’s exactly what we got. Most know Jerry Cantrell as a founding legend of the grunge scene with Alice in Chains. And if you’re a ‘90s baby like me, chances are you grew up listening to them in your dad’s classic Chevy pickup almost every day, religiously.
Not only does Jerry continue to embrace his legacy with Alice in Chains, but his solo work also carries that same gritty, unmistakable vibe…just with a more personal, Jerry Cantrell twist. As someone who’s seen him live many times, I knew this was going to be one hell of a show, bringing back all the ‘90s feels I’ve been missing since the last time I caught his set. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one. Walking through the venue doors, the room was already packed with fans just as stoked as I was, with more still pouring in, with many of them rocking those Alice in Chains grunge tees. This was my first show of the year, and I was beyond excited to see what the night had in store.
As the lights dimmed and the stage lit up, it was finally go-time. Joining us was Cleveland, Ohio’s own rock band, Filter. One by one, the members took their places, and as soon as lead vocalist Richard Patrick stepped to the center, they launched straight into “You Walk Away.” Filter has always been one of those bands that somehow fits seamlessly into the soundtrack of my soul, bringing me back to my childhood and instantly putting me in a good mood. Not many bands have that effect on me, so getting to not only lose myself in the music but also photograph and cover their show is still just completely mind-boggling. Would this be considered a full-circle moment? If so, I’m not complaining…it’s definitely one of the many perks of being a music journalist.
That night, Filter brought a herd of longtime fans with them. The crowd was so loud, I could barely hear the band at times, everyone screaming along to every single song. Hands and beers were in the air, people were genuinely soaking in every sound that echoed throughout the venue. Their set may have been quick, but it definitely packed their usual punch with nine songs spanning their catalog, including “For The Beaten,” “Take A Picture,” “Drug Boy,” and “Welcome To The Fold.” And, of course, they closed out with the undeniable crowd favorite, “Hey Man Nice Shot.” After all these years, Filter still sounds just as tight and polished as ever, proving they’re nowhere near slowing down.
It was finally time for what most of us were beyond stoked to witness…the legendary mastermind himself, Jerry Cantrell. His band is stacked with an insanely talented lineup, including Greg Puciato, Roy Mayorga, Lola Colette, Eliot Lorango, and Zach Throne…all of whom effortlessly blend their unique crafts to create a live sound that’s nothing short of incredible. Watching them perform, especially as a fan of some of these musicians already, was truly something special. Cantrell’s nineteen-song setlist was a powerhouse mix of his solo work and classic ‘Alice In Chains’ jams that everyone knows and loves. He ripped through “Them Bones,” “Man in the Box,” “Would?” and even pulled out “Hate to Feel,” a song that hasn’t been played live in decades until this solo tour.
Most of the set featured tracks from his latest album, I Want Blood, which has been a massive hit since its release in October of last year. I can’t even begin to explain how flawlessly this lineup delivers each song… Cantrell and his handpicked musicians brought out every intricate detail, making each track hit even better. And while my absolute favorite Cantrell song didn’t make the setlist this time, getting to hear other personal favorites like “Psychotic Break,” “Angel Eyes,” “Cut You In,” and “Had to Know” 1000000% made up for it. One of the biggest surprises of the night? A completely unexpected Aerosmith cover “Sick as a Dog.” The entire crowd had shared that same excited “WTF” moment, but obviously in the best way possible.
And of course, the night couldn’t have ended any better than with another Alice In Chains fan favorite…“Rooster.” The entire venue erupted at that point with everyone screaming at the top of their lungs. Not a single person was silent…not even the bartenders. This show was the best way to kick off my year of concerts, and if this tour manages to stop by your side of the world… do yourself the favor and get yourself in attendance. You can thank me later.
GALLERY: Jerry Cantrell and Filter at House of Blues in Houston, Texas (February 26, 2025)
