Live Review: Hatebreed + Summer Slaughter @ The Eastern, Atlanta - July 9th 2025

Chris Collett
2 days ago
2 min read

Updated: 15 minutes ago

Atlanta's Eastern venue was transformed into an electrifying metal arena on July 9 as the Summer Slaughter Tour roared through, headlined by hardcore legends Hatebreed. With support from Fugitive, Malevolence, Gridiron, Escuela Grind, and Incite, the night delivered relentless energy and tight performances.

From the moment the doors opened, the pit was alive. Moshers, headbangers, and the band’s die-hard fans created a charged atmosphere. Atlanta's hardcore community showed up in full force, ready to unleash and feed off the aggression on stage.

Fugitive kicked things off with raw intensity and flawless riffs. It was an energetic yet measured introduction that set the tone.Malevolence elevated the energy further; their breakdowns drew intense mosh sessions and the crowd response you would expect at a hardcore show.Gridiron impressed with technical precision. Tight grooves shook the venue and warmed the crowd nicely.Escuela Grind upped the brutality with short, intense bursts. It was an onslaught that kept the floor in motion.Incite brought a melodic edge, blending hardcore and groove metal, which acted as the perfect ramp-up before the main event.Each band benefitted from sharp production and good pacing, ensuring the audience stayed hooked from opener to headliner.

As Hatebreed took the stage, the energy peaked. Frontman Jamey Jasta ignited the crowd with powerhouse vocals and commanding presence. The band dove into essentials like "Destroy Everything" and "I Will Be Heard," provoking singalongs and organized circle pits. Though guitarist Wayne Lozinak was absent due to medical reasons, the remaining members delivered a performance that was muscular and cohesive. Jasta’s charisma, paired with tight drumming and thunderous palm-muted riffs, reinforced why they’re genre stalwarts.

The Summer Slaughter stop in Atlanta was a masterclass in modern heavy touring. It was a well-curated lineup showcasing hardcore’s evolving landscape, reigning heroes, and rising talent. For fans craving aggressive riffs, pit dynamics, and commanding stage presence, this installment hit the mark.

While the evening landed squarely in hardcore territory, some longtime death metal devotees may have missed the genre’s deeper roots. Yet, the strength of Hatebreed’s performance and the supporting band's passion made it a night worth remembering. It's proof that Summer Slaughter still knows how to deliver brutality with clarity.