Golden Gate Park is no stranger to legendary music festivals, but last night marked a new chapter in its storied history. In the wake of Outside Lands, the park hosted an inaugural rock concert that electrified San Francisco like never before. The lineup—featuring VOWWS, Viagra Boys, Deftones, The Mars Volta, and System of a Down—promised an eclectic mix of genres and energy, delivering beyond expectations.
The evening kicked off with VOWWS, an Australian duo known for their dark wave and industrial sound. Their set was a moody, atmospheric opener that set the tone for what was to come. With brooding synths and haunting vocals, they created a cinematic experience that felt like the calm before the storm. While the crowd was still trickling in, those present were clearly entranced by VOWWS’ unique blend of post-punk and electronic music. Their performance was a slow burn, gradually pulling the audience into their world, resonating in the chilly San Francisco air.
Next up were Viagra Boys, the Swedish post-punk band making waves with their raw, unfiltered energy. From the moment they hit the stage, the vibe shifted from introspective to chaotic in the best possible way. Frontman Sebastian Murphy, shirtless, tattooed, and full of swagger, commanded the stage with a punk-rock bravado that was both reckless and magnetic. Their set was a frenetic explosion of sound, with tracks like “Sports” and “Punk Rock Loser” whipping the crowd into a frenzy. The band’s blend of humor and intensity made for a wild ride, leaving the audience breathless and ready for more.
The Mars Volta followed, bringing a dose of progressive rock to the night. Known for their complex compositions and virtuosic musicianship, the band delivered a set that was as intellectually stimulating as it was sonically overwhelming. Cedric Bixler-Zavala’s frenetic stage presence, coupled with Omar Rodríguez-López’s intricate guitar work, made for a performance that was nothing short of mesmerizing. Tracks like “L’Via L’Viaquez” and “Roulette Dares” showcased the band’s ability to seamlessly blend genres, from jazz to punk to Latin music, all within the framework of rock.
As the sun began to set, Deftones took the stage, and the atmosphere became electric. The Sacramento natives are veterans of the alternative metal scene, and their experience shone through in every note. Chino Moreno’s ethereal vocals, combined with the band’s powerful instrumentation, created a sonic landscape that was both heavy and beautiful. Opening with “Be Quiet and Drive,” Deftones immediately had the crowd in the palm of their hands. The energy only escalated with hits like “Change (In the House of Flies)” and “My Own Summer (Shove It),” proving that Deftones are still masters of blending aggression with emotion.
Finally, System of a Down closed the night with a set that can only be described as explosive. The Armenian-American band has always been known for their politically charged lyrics and genre-defying sound, and they did not disappoint. Opening with “Genocidal Humanoidz,” a first-time opening number, they immediately set the tone for a performance that was both intense and thought-provoking. Serj Tankian’s powerful vocals, combined with the band’s aggressive riffs and complex rhythms, created a cathartic experience for the audience. Hits like “Chop Suey!” and “Toxicity” had the entire crowd singing along, creating a sense of unity that only live music can achieve.
Photos by Louis Raphael with selections from Edwin Daboub and Clemente Ruiz
