Review: Maylene and the Sons of Disaster - Kick Off Summer Tour in Greenville

Maylene and the Sons of Disaster launched their summer tour at the Radio Room in Greenville, South Carolina, bringing along Atomic Rule, Across Five Aprils, New Rituals, and hometown openers Reviler for a night that celebrated Southern metal, hardcore, and metalcore.

The show wasn’t sold out, but the venue steadily filled throughout the evening. By the time Across Five Aprils took the stage, the room was packed with fans eager to welcome the veteran bands.

Greenville’s own Reviler opened the night with plenty of energy and solid stage presence. As the newest band on the bill, getting the crowd moving proved difficult, but they represented their hometown well. New Rituals, a hardcore band from Nashville, followed with an aggressive set that showed plenty of promise. While still developing their stage chemistry, the band delivered a strong performance, and it was easy to see why Josh Scogin was in attendance supporting the group, whose drummer previously played with ’68.

Formed in Chattanooga in 2001, Across Five Aprils reminded everyone why they’ve maintained such a loyal following. Vocalist Steve Taylor joked that the band only plays a handful of shows each year and described their sound as “hardcore adjacent.” Any concerns about rust quickly disappeared as fans sang along throughout the set. One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when Taylor discovered it was a young fan’s sixth birthday and invited the crowd to wish him a happy birthday before giving him a safe first crowd surfing experience.

The biggest surprise of the night was Atomic Rule. Featuring former Every Time I Die guitarist Andy Williams, the band delivered crushing, groove laden sludge metal with precision and confidence. Their performance sparked the night’s first pit and crowd surfing, immediately raising the energy level inside the venue.

When Maylene and the Sons of Disaster finally took the stage, they reminded everyone why they remain one of heavy music’s most respected Southern metal bands. Dallas Taylor performed with remarkable energy, while every member of the band brought an exceptional stage presence that connected with the audience from start to finish. The band’s chemistry and passion were evident throughout the set, and the Greenville crowd responded with enthusiasm.

Following the show, Dallas Taylor stayed to meet fans, take photos, and spend time with everyone who wanted to say hello, including several young fans. It was a fitting end to a night that showcased not only great performances but also the sense of community that continues to define the heavy music scene.

As the opening night of the tour, Greenville set the bar high. Every band contributed something unique, making this a memorable evening for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.