Clockwise Opens for 30STM and Sevendust

by Renee Clark

I had the opportunity to photograph Clockwise when they opened up for Sevendust at The Waterstreet Music Hall in Rochester, NY.  I just happened to be there photographing 30 Seconds to Mars and was extremely pleased to see a poster on the door saying that they were going to be performing! 

When they started their set it took me a minute to believe my eyes.  I was astounded and surprised to see what the lead singer looked like.  I would have never in a million years have put his face with his voice.  All of the band members appearance are living proof of the statement that “what you see isn’t always what you get.”  In this case the audience got even more than what they initially expected. 

At first there were only a few people in the room because most of the crowd were still in the main part of the club and didn’t even know that they were performing in the room next door.  After they played a few songs more and more people started to fill the room.  Their loud, in your face sound echoed throughout the entire club peaking more and more people’s interest and gravitating their attention from their spots by the main stage to the other side of the club, which was really great to see happen.

 I really wish I could tell you what the first four or five songs they played were BUT I was so consumed in photographing them I did not pay attention.  Sorry I seriously do not pay attention at shows I am photographing unless I know I have to write about it.  Anyway I do remember them playing “Lay Her Down,” “Aware,” and “Ego.” Which are among my favorites on the album.  Each band member’s performance was truly genuine.  Austin was full of energy and was all over the stage.  Don’t ask me why but I really liked it when he would stick his tongue out and shake his head to the side.  Alfonso was also really great to watch I just love the faces he makes while playing.  Dave was back in the shadows of the stage (like most drummers are) but that couldn’t hide his energy.   

As I was changing film someone’s mic stand (I am 99% sure it was Scott’s) almost fell on my head and since I was not paying attention I felt bad because I did not move out of the way so sorry to the roadie guy for not moving.  Next time I have the chance to photograph them I am going to wear a helmet that says Clockwise on it J.  I took over 2 rolls of them (one being a 36 exposure of B&W) so more pictures are coming.  I am so pissed off that the shots of Austin and Alfonso getting in my face did not come out because my camera would not focus that close.  But I like it when band members do that so hopefully next time I will have my other lens on!  Sorry guys!  I did not have a chance to print up anymore photo’s yet…. takes me way too long!  I sent them out and they will be done at the end of the month!!  So keep checking back for more photos!!

Overall I have to say they put on an awesome show and I am still amazed and cannot believe how lucky I was to have gone to that show and had a photo pass!  If you EVER have a chance to go to a Clockwise show go…. you will not be let down and it will be 110% worth your money and time!  I am not jut saying that because I think they are all hot/good looking guys either :-P

~Renee