The Word Alive, B Ryder’s Sports Bar -

By Ashley Fava

While on a three date run through California, The Word Alive made their final stop at B Ryder’s Bar in Bakersfield, CA. The local bands that opened, Chapters and My Dear Insanity, definitely got the crowd ready for The Word Alive. It’s great to see that not only The Word Alive but B Ryders Bar are spreading the word of supporting the local music scene.

The Word Alive is made up of five driven guys from Phoenix, Arizona. This band strives to perform their best no matter the size of the crowd. Although they were missing drummer, Luke Holland, their drum tech Matt Horn never missed a beat. The energy this band brings to every show keeps people coming back for more. This was one of the smallest venues The Word Alive has played in awhile but not for a second did it feel like that. Tyler “Telle” Smith, the vocalist, involved every bit of the crowd as he could into each song. Getting up close and personal with some fans right in front of the stage. Guitarists, Zack Hansen and Tony Pizzuti dueling solo’s that led into heavy breakdowns only drove the crowd that much crazier.

Their set was filled with old and new The Word Alive songs. Playing fan favorites such as “Life Cycles” from their second full length album and “Lighthouse” from their latest album, Real. Even though the crowd was singing every lyric to these songs when the guys came back out to play “Casanova Rodeo” from their EP, Empire, the energy went up a few notches. Finishing out this intimate show just as strong as they started, this band doesn’t disappoint.