Concert Review: Dead Posey Brings Rock to The Rockies on The Damned & The Dead Tour

The sky begins to clear, and the sun starts to shine as a brief storm rolls through Denver, Colorado. On South Broadway between Archer Place and Bayaud Ave is where you will find me tonight. Standing outside of the popular music venue HQ Underground, I wait with eager fans in anticipation for the doors to open. Peering through the venue's windows, excitement builds even more as we catch a glimpse of the bands running through sound check. Tonight HQ is poised to erupt with an epic night of music. Another Day Dawns and Ovtlier are set to start off the night, culminating with a headlining performance by the captivating band Dead Posey. For Dead Posey, this show holds a special significance, as Denver marks the band's first stop on their inaugural headlining tour across the states. 

But, for those discovering the name for the first time, allow me a moment to introduce you. Danyell Souza and Tony Nova are the LA-based musical masterminds behind the name Dead Posey. They joined forces in 2016, each bringing their own unique talents to the mix. Souza brings powerful vocals along with an insightful pen and producing skills. Nova, whose name might sound familiar as the former drummer of the band Eve 6, is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and seasoned producer in his own right. Inspired by a musical foundation built upon inspiration from some of their favorites like Depeche Mode, Marilyn Manson, and Nine Inch Nails, Dead Posey crafts an ever-evolving blend of rock, punk, and alternative sounds with strong, meaningful lyrics. To date they have successfully released numerous singles, three well-received EPs: 'FreakShow' (2018), 'Malfunction' (2020), 'Blue Monday' (2022), and most recently their debut album, 'Are You In A Cult' (2024). For fans and myself, the excitement for the chance to witness the talent and raw energy that defines Dead Posey's music is undeniable tonight.

As it nears 8:00 pm, Another Day Dawns from Lehighton, Pennsylvania, takes to the stage first. Dakota Sean, the band's lead vocalist and songwriter, immediately impresses with strong vocals. Accompanying him on stage are his talented bandmates, who all have a hand in the songwriting process, contributing to the band's dynamic sound. Tyler Ritter and Josh Mercado on guitars deliver striking performances with killer riffs and solos. Nick McGeehen lays down a solid foundation on his white and silver drum kit. The band has been on the road sharing the stage with rock heavyweights like Fuel, Breaking Benjamin, and Bush, building a solid fan base, and tonight's no different. 

With a quick set change, Ovtlier (pronounced "Outlier") explodes onto the stage, delivering a thrilling performance of solid vocals and high energy. Frontman Joey Arena grabs the attention of the audience right off the bat. Cosmo Pusateri on bass/vocals, Kane Buckley killing it on guitar/vocals, and Mike Wilkinson on drums are the talents providing the driving force behind the band's rock and heavy metal sound. Pulling out all the stops, Ovtlier plays songs from their previous works alongside their newest single, "Warrior," featuring a special guest appearance from Joey Tyler. With their raw power and relentless energy, Ovtlier has HQ completely hooked.

As the clock strikes 9:15 pm, a voice echoes throughout HQ as if to almost summon all those to the show. A drum kit sits center stage with two mic stands on either side. The crowd inches closer as Tony Novo picks up a black LTD deluxe guitar outlined with a silver border, and Kyle Brian takes a seat behind his black and gray Evans drum set. With a quick glance at one another, they begin to unleash the first notes of the song 'Sorry.' With fans locked in, Danyell emerges onto the stage with a commanding stage presence. Draped in a long black jacket, beneath a black corset, short black skirt with fishnet stockings, and black knee-high boots. Accentuated with black gloves, a cross choker, and deep red lipstick, she eyes the crowd and unlocks her first powerful note of the night. From the energy on stage to that of the crowd, you just knew tonight was going to be something special.

Performing a seamless blend of music from their three EPs and their debut album, ‘Are You in a Cult?’ The night was truly a celebration of Dead Posey’s work. The band had the crowd up and dancing with songs like "Dark Side," "She Went Bad," "Parasite," and their epic reimagined version of New Order's "Blue Monday." While simultaneously taking us on a lyrical journey highlighting some hard-hitting topics like sexism, rebellion, and mental health.

The connection and energy Dead Posey and their fans have with one another is unparalleled. Danyell worked every single inch of the stage and down into the pit numerous times, singing and dancing among the crowd. The way she stared deep into her fans' eyes as she sang to them was transcendent and truly made you feel seen and alive. Entranced by Danyell's voice, one couldn't help but be reminded of some of rock's greatest, like Janis Joplin and Kurt Cobain, raw and unapologetic. From the stage, Tony brought his own special energy, shining on guitar with effortless hard-hitting riffs and seamlessly working the fretboard, while complementing Danyell's vocals. Kyle, stationed behind the drum kit, an extremely talented musician, showcased his remarkable skill, pumping out a relentless beat while injecting a visual flair into the performance with noticeable stick tricks.

As the crowd watched intently, Dead Posey took the time to express their sincere gratitude by inviting three fans onto the stage. Each was personally thanked and acknowledged for their tireless efforts as dedicated members of their street team. To further show appreciation, they orchestrated an epic crowd-surfing moment for one of the street team members, sending them on a ride across the room.

Before taking their final bow, Dead Posey closed out the night with their politically charged hit, 'Welcome To the Nightmare.' Though written in 2024, the song resonated with a chilling truth given the current socio-political landscape. With the drums hitting deep within our bones as the last chord echoes through the room, the memory of the night and the message Dead Posey instilled in us will linger on long after the house lights come on. 

To say Dead Posey brought more than rock to Denver would be an understatement. They brought an authenticity and a genuine connection that resonated deep within the fans. They took time to meet fans after the show, sharing smiles and stories, creating memories well beyond the stage. Their journey truly feels like a shared experience toward something extraordinary and it's one I am excited to be a part of.

Dead Posey, Ovtiler, and Another Day Dawns are charging the road on an 18-city run. Check out the dates and locations and make sure to catch them in a city near you!