The Kia Forum in Inglewood roared to life as Disturbed brought The Sickness 25th Anniversary Tour to town. With a career-defining performance, the band honored the album that launched them into hard rock history while reaffirming their standing as titans of the genre.
Complete with massive production, heartfelt tributes, and a crowd united in cathartic release, the night was as emotional as it was explosive.
The evening kicked off with a high-octane set from San Antonio alt-metal band, Nothing More.
Their blend of progressive aggression and melodic intensity primed the crowd for an incredible night of music.
Frontman Jonny Hawkins delivered a visceral performance—shirtless, painted, and prowling the stage like a man possessed.
Tracks like “If It Doesn’t Hurt” and “Jenny” hit especially hard, with the band’s unique instrument rigs and wild energy immediately capturing attention.
During the set the audience was treated to not one, but three guest singers: Chris Daughtry during “FREEFALL,” Disturbed’s David Draiman on “Angel Song,” and Eric Vanlerberghe of I Prevail flew out just for the occasion and sang on “House on Sand.”
Nothing More’s performance was not just an opener—it was a statement, one that proved they’re among the most innovative acts in modern rock.
Following them was Daughtry, who brought a polished, emotionally-driven set that balanced melodic sensibilities with gritty, muscular instrumentation.
Chris Daughtry’s vocals soared on hits like “It’s Not Over” and “Home.” Their performance brought a welcomed contrast—less about aggression, more about connection—and the crowd responded with enthusiasm.
It was a calculated choice in pacing, keeping the energy high without overwhelming before the main event. To witness the story of Chris Daughtry unfold since his time on “American Idol” has been incredible and truly inspiring.
He is someone to admire as he has soared to great heights yet remained committed to stay in touch with his roots.
When the lights dimmed and the first eerie tones rang out through the Forum, anticipation surged through the sold-out crowd. Frontman David Draiman made a chilling entrance: strapped into a straitjacket and wheeled onto the stage, just as he used to do when “The Sickness” was first released 25 years ago. He broke free dramatically, tossing his mask aside as the band launched into “Voices,” and the room erupted.
Disturbed dove headfirst into a full-album performance of their 2000 debut, honoring the record that introduced their iconic sound to the world. Every track was played in order, giving fans a rare treat. Lesser-performed cuts like “Fear,” “Violence Fetish,” and “Conflict” landed with renewed intensity, while mainstays like “Stupify” and “Down with the Sickness” were greeted with thunderous singalongs and moshing.
Even 25 years later, these songs haven’t lost their edge. The crowd’s energy didn’t wane for a moment, and Draiman’s vocals were as menacing and commanding as ever. Guitarist Dan Donegan delivered riff after riff with machine-like precision, while drummer Mike Wengren and bassist John Moyer anchored the chaos with pounding rhythms and dark undertones.
In one of the night’s most heartfelt moments, Draiman paused the show before “The Light” to bring out members of the Los Angeles Fire Department. With solemn gratitude, he praised their bravery and service, expressing he was honored to share the stage with them. The crowd rose to their feet in thunderous applause as the firefighters stood tall. The following performance of “The Light” was emotionally charged, transformed from a song of perseverance into a sincere tribute.
After completing “The Sickness,” Disturbed returned for a searing encore set that drew from across their catalog. Tracks like “Inside the Fire,” “Indestructible,” and “Ten Thousand Fists” pushed the intensity to new levels. The production here went full-throttle: pyrotechnics ramped up even more, and a towering inflatable of the band’s mascot, “The Guy,” reigned above it all.
A standout was their haunting rendition of “The Sound of Silence,” performed with a burning grand piano and cinematic lighting that shifted the energy from adrenaline to awe. Draiman’s vocal delivery was powerful and heartfelt, and the entire crowd seemed to hold their breath through every word.
Disturbed’s anniversary performance of “The Sickness” wasn’t just a trip down memory lane—it was a ferocious, passionate declaration that the band is still at the top of their game. By revisiting their foundational beginnings while showcasing their evolved artistry and deep emotional resonance, the band proved they are more than relevant – they are vital.
With Nothing More lighting the fuse, Daughtry setting a melodic tone, and Disturbed delivering a career-spanning, emotionally rich performance, the Kia Forum show was a masterclass in what it means to not just survive 25 years in rock—but to endure, evolve, and inspire.
