XCOMM Takes the Stage at the Forum: A Milestone for Young Musicians

The Journey to the Forum

Three years ago, XCOMM began their musical journey by organizing their own shows, captivating audiences on the Boardwalk and in various venues across Venice. Their hard work and dedication culminated in a significant opportunity in January when they were invited by none other than Dave Grohl to open for the Foo Fighters at the iconic “Fabulous” Forum, located just nine-and-a-half miles down Washington Boulevard in Inglewood.

A Dream Realized

As the quintet stepped onto the stage of the historic venue, they were flooded with memories of their past experiences as audience members. Drummer Michael recalled the thrill of attending Ozzfest on New Year’s Eve in 2018 and being present for what was billed as Slayer’s final show the following year, when he was just eight years old. “I still think about it, like, ‘Oh my God, we played the Forum,’” he reflects. “It didn’t feel like we were meant to be there, but at the same time, it also felt like we were exactly where we needed to be.”

The Energy of the Crowd

During their performance, the sight of two circle pits forming on the arena’s expansive floor served as a testament to the evolution of heavy music. Today, the Foo Fighters stand as giants in the music industry, akin to legends like Van Halen and Bon Jovi. The notion that such arena-filling icons would have invited hardcore bands like Dirty Rotten Imbeciles or Bad Brains to share the stage in the 1980s seems unfathomable.

A Unique Setlist

“We did a Nailbomb cover, and then later that night Dave [Grohl] was doing ‘Everlong,’” Michael shared. “That’s pretty polar.” The stark contrast between their hardcore sound and the Foo Fighters’ melodic anthems made for an unforgettable night.

Mixed Reactions

However, not all audience members were receptive to XCOMM’s intense performance style. The band members noted that some older fans looked upon them with expressions that suggested they were witnessing “literal demons who were slaughtering people.” In the aftermath, they encountered critiques on Reddit from attendees who were taken aback by the band’s decision to spend their entire 17-song set screaming.

Embracing Polarization

Despite the mixed reviews, Michael Gatto and his bandmates took pride in their ability to evoke strong reactions. “That’s what we wanted to do,” he stated confidently. “We completed our mission with that show.”

Conclusion

XCOMM’s performance at the Forum marks a significant milestone in their burgeoning career, showcasing their growth as artists and their commitment to bringing punishing music to the forefront. As they continue to make waves in the music scene, one thing is clear: this young band is determined to carve out their own space in the industry.

FAQs

What is XCOMM known for?

XCOMM is known for their energetic performances and their ability to fuse hardcore music with a unique style that resonates with younger audiences.

Who invited XCOMM to perform at the Forum?

Dave Grohl, the frontman of the Foo Fighters, invited XCOMM to open for them at the Forum.

How did the audience react to XCOMM’s performance?

The audience had mixed reactions, with some older fans expressing disapproval while younger attendees embraced the band’s intense energy.

What is the significance of the Forum for XCOMM?

The Forum is a historic venue where many legendary performances have taken place, making it a dream location for XCOMM to share their music.

What are XCOMM’s future plans?

While specific plans have not been announced, XCOMM aims to continue performing and expanding their reach within the music industry.