Detroit, October 12, 2025
News Summary
The Sword celebrated the 15th anniversary of their iconic album Warp Riders in an electrifying concert at Saint Andrew’s Hall, Detroit. Joined by opening acts Pink Fuzz and Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol, the event captivated metal fans with powerful performances and engaging music, marking a memorable night for all in attendance.
Detroit Rocks as The Sword Celebrates 15th Anniversary of Warp Riders
Detroit downtown was set ablaze with energy as The Sword took the stage at Saint Andrew’s Hall to celebrate the 15th anniversary of their iconic album Warp Riders. The concert featured supporting acts Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol and Pink Fuzz, creating an unforgettable night for metal fans.
Pink Fuzz Opens with High Energy
The evening kicked off with Pink Fuzz, a sibling duo known for their dynamic performances. They energized the crowd with powerful riffs and gripping melodies. Guitarist John Demitro delivered fiery guitar solos, while bassist LuLu Demitro complemented with rich, rumbling tones. The pair’s harmonized vocals brought an emotional intensity to the forefront, as drummer Will Trafas drove the performance with thunderous beats.
Pink Fuzz’s setlist included the following highlights:
- Long Gone – the opening track set a vigorous pace for the show.
- Coming for Me – featured pounding rhythms and distorted bass lines.
- Decline – created a moody groove that engaged the audience.
- So Sad – showcased LuLu’s powerful, emotive vocal style.
Their performance was defined by a mix of grit and melody, leaving a significant impact on the audience.
Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol Brings Sludgy Swagger
Following Pink Fuzz, Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol took the stage with their unique brand of sludgy rock. Their energetic performance included numerous memorable tracks that resonated with attendees.
Standout songs from their set included:
- Peanut Butter Snack Sticks – which got the crowd moving.
- Sugarman – added a catchy sweetness to the performance.
- Jesus Was an Alien and Johnny Boy Tell ’Em – highlighted their skillful storytelling.
- The high-energy finale with 1-800-EAT-SHIT and Gravedigger left the audience headbanging.
The Sword Delivers a Cosmic Performance
As the night unfolded, The Sword stepped into the spotlight, celebrating their Warp Riders album with a performance themed around space and exploration. The show commenced with a cinematic mood set by an instrumental piece State of the Nation by Deltron 3030.
Their opening songs, Empty Temples and High Country, immediately showcased the strength of frontman John D. Cronise. The weighty bass from Bryan Richie added depth to their sound, while Kyle Shutt’s fiery guitar solos created a mesmerizing atmosphere. Drummer Santiago “Jimmy” Vela III maintained a relentless pace throughout the performance.
Notable tracks played during their set included:
- Maiden, Mother & Crone – a fan favorite recognized for its compelling themes.
- A heavy cover of David Bowie’s Space Oddity transformed the classic into a metal anthem.
- An engaging run of Warp Riders songs including Acheron/Unearthing the Orb, Tres Brujas, Arrows in the Dark, Lawless Lands, and Night City.
The set concluded with Tears of Fire, serving as a grand finale, followed by an encore that featured a heavier rendition of Daughter of Dawn and Winter’s Wolves.
A Memorable Celebration for Fans
The event not only marked a significant anniversary for The Sword but also provided a platform for emerging acts like Pink Fuzz and Rickshaw Billie’s Burger Patrol. Fans left the venue filled with excitement and nostalgia, celebrating the enduring impact of Warp Riders and the dynamic performances showcased throughout the night.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Loud Hailer Magazine: The Sword at Saint Andrew’s Hall
- TicketNews: The Sword Extends Warp Riders Tour
- Metal Planet Music: The Sword Extends Tour Across U.S.
- New Noise Magazine: The Sword Expands Tour
- Detroit News: Obit Rick Derringer
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
