photo by Amanda Parraz

When I originally heard Neverset would be performing at Diablos Roadhouse, I knew this was a show I had to attend. I had seen them two times previously and I wasn't about to miss a chance to see them a third time. If there is one thing you can always count on Neverset for, that's to put on one hell of a rock show.

We took our time getting to the venue because at Diablos, there isn't a bad spot in the place. While most shows in Odessa are played at Dos Amigos and are described from the stage view by former American Idol contestant, Chris Daughtry, as "playing in a long closet", tonight's show at Diablos would be even more intimate. For bands, playing at Diablos is like playing in a two-car garage, only slightly bigger. There is a viewing area up stairs that is still close enough to the stage to get yourself an amazing, up close and personal view. If you choose to stand on the floor, you're able to get as close as a fan possibly can to their favorite artist, as there's nothing separating you from the stage. It's a fans dream come true.

Two bands were set to perform before Neverset. HeadSpun and Overscene. When we originally arrived, HeadSpun was halfway through their set, but we were impressed by what we were able to see and hear. The crowd was scattered throughout the venue but there were a few hard-core fans up at the front jamming with HeadSpun and showing their appreciation for this band and their craft. The band meshes well and you can tell they are having a good time, doing what it is they love. The songs they performed were pure rock and those who were paying their full attention definitely took notice.

Next band was a band called Overscene. The lead singer seemed to get off to a slow start, but as the night went on, he seemed to appear more comfortable and his performance started to measure up to the band's. Some time during their set, they performed a cover of Collective Soul's 'Shine' and the small crowd that was on the floor was definitely feeling it. The band has a great sound and I think years from now they could really be big. I hope to see them again in the future.

Once Overscene began packing up their gear, the anticipation of seeing Neverset became more intense. The crowd that was once scattered all over the venue were now down on the floor getting as close to the stage as possible. Neverset, based out of Dallas, has definitely made a name for themselves in West Texas and have a strong, devoted fan base here. I propped myself up against the stage, just a little off center. As excited as I was to listen to Neverset perform, I was that much more excited to photograph the band. Due to lighting issues and other uncontrollable circumstances in the past, I was never able to photograph them as well as I'd have liked to. But with the view I was getting this night, a view any concert photographer would dream of, I knew I'd get some amazing shots out of this.

Neverset took the stage and it was more than apparent who everyone was there to see that night. They commanded the stage as if it was their own and while the other bands were talented in their own way, they completely blew them out of the water. If you've been to a Neverset show, you know what I mean by their amazing stage presence. Front man Shawn Hamm works the stage like a pro and the chemistry between he and the band is phenomenal. As I said in the beginning, I've seen them twice previously and their show is always spot on. They grab a hold of your rock music loving soul and never let go.

photo by Amanda Parraz

The crowd was going wild with each song performed and Shawn, as always, made it a point to interact with the crowd. If you're a fan or have seen these guys in concert before, I'm sure you noticed a new addition to the band. Kyle, the newest guitar player, was noticeably having the most fun up on stage. It was obvious this was one of his first shows with the band as he had the biggest smile on his face throughout the entire set and was all over the stage. His guitar playing was in sync and he fits in perfectly with what Neverset is all about.

Throughout the night, the band played their hit songs such as 'Breathe' and 'Headake', two songs that no matter how hard you try not too (why would you though) you can't help but rock it out and scream the lyrics at the top of your lungs. The crowd goes absolutely insane during these two songs and the connection between the band and the crowd is intense. As with every Neverset show, they performed a cover of Three Days Grace's 'Riot' and it blew the roof off the place. I was lucky enough to catch this performance on video, although it can't measure up to actually being there and experiencing it right in your face.

When it was over the crowd was left with that feeling of wanting more but it's something that you've learned comes with every Neverset show. No matter how much you get from them, you always want more. They're just that damn good. If they are ever playing in your area, do yourself a favor and get to their show. It'll be a night you'll never forget.

Neverset is currently finishing up some dates with Three Days Grace, Breaking Benjamin and Seether through the end of February. We certainly hope to catch them back on the road soon after that. Check out the video of Neverset performing a cover of Three Days Grace's 'Riot', shot by Amanda Parraz.