Phoenix, Arizona – On September 26, 2025, Walter Studios held court for fans of the heavy metal band Baroness with opener Weedeater. The venue was packed with eager fans, all ready to experience the magic of the Red and Blue Tour.
Weedeater, a doom metal band from Wilmington, North Carolina, was an interesting opening act. Lead vocalist and bassist Dave “Dixie” Collins plays bass guitar in a way that I’ve not seen before; I found myself wondering if he’d played the upright bass before turning to bass guitar and doom metal because of how he handles his guitar. Collins’ bass riffs are the driving percussive force behind the music, with very discernible signature riffs. Because the Walter Studios stage is small, the band was double-stacked with Baroness’s equipment, placing drummer Ramzi Atayeh at the front of stage, which made for an even louder and more aggressive performance. Lead guitarist Dave Shepherd is a quieter presence on stage, making him the right counter to Collins’ rebellious stage presence.
Baroness, formed in 2003 in Savannah, Georgia, has been a staple in the heavy metal scene for over two decades. The band was founded by John Baizley, Allen Blickle, Tim Loose, and Summer Welch, who had previously played together in a punk rock band called Johnny Welfare and the Paychecks. Over the years, Baroness has undergone several lineup changes, with Baizley remaining the constant force behind the band’s creative vision.
The current lineup of Baroness includes Baizley on vocals and guitar, Gina Gleason on guitar and backing vocals, Nick Jost on bass and keyboards, and Sebastian Thomson on drums. Each member brings their unique style and energy to the band, creating a dynamic and powerful sound. Baizley and Gleason make an especially powerful team, each knowing when to let the other take the spotlight. The entire band seems to have fun and love what they are doing, and that engagement translates well to the crowd. Gleason is especially memorable with her high-energy guitar performance. She knows how to play the crowd and take them on a journey, and showed her skills throughout the night, whether on electric or acoustic guitar. If Joan Jett and Sean Yseult had a musical love child, I’m pretty sure it would be Gleason.
The Red and Blue Tour is a celebration of Baroness’s first two full-length albums, the Red Album (2007) and the Blue Record (2009). These albums laid the foundation for the band’s distinctive style, combining crushing heaviness with melodic intricacy. The tour features performances of both albums in their entirety, offering fans a rare opportunity to hear these seminal works live.
Baroness kicked off the night with tracks from the Red Album, including the fan-favorite “Isak,” and seamlessly transitioned into the ethereal melodies of the Blue Record. Baizley’s vocals were as commanding as ever, and the band’s musicianship was on full display, with each member delivering a flawless performance.
The night was a testament to Baroness’s enduring appeal and their ability to connect with their fans.
Setlist:
