Daughtry Worked Magic at The Factory Thursday

 

–by Laura Tucker

Chris Daughtry and his band by the same name played the area’s newest indoor venue, The Factory in Chesterfield, on Thursday after rescheduling the November 23rd date following the tragic loss of his daughter, Hannah.

Fans were greeted by the words “Dear Love” in neon lights above the stage while waiting for the band to come out. Then, the letters illuminated to their full message of “Dearly Beloved”, signifying the name of their latest album and tour, while a dub of Prince played in the background.

Opening with “Desperation” from their fourth and latest album instead of a popular favorite, the audience and the band slowly began warming up to each other.

Chris came to fame as the fourth runner up on American Idol in 2006 but it’s “No Surprise” that he has since carved out a name for his band that makes people forget who actually won that year. (It was Taylor Hicks, by the way.)

With the momentum of his fame, the band (Chris Daughtry – Lead vocals/guitar, Josh Steely – lead guitar/backing vocals, Brian Craddock – guitar/backing vocals, Elvio Fernandes – Keyboards/guitar/backing vocals, Brandon Maclin – Drums, and Patrick Dahlheimer – bass) released their self-titled debut album later
that year earning them four American Music Awards and six Billboard Music Awards. Since then, Chris has secured a spot in music as one of the best balladeers in the business.

His smooth vocals, perfect pitch, and relatable lyrics make it nearly impossible not to croon along. He took the stage solo for an acoustic rendition of “Home”, reminding us that it’s “going home, not coming home” and to sing along if we knew the words. We all knew the words. With phones lit, the crowd gladly obliged, adding a sway to accompany the rhythm.

He followed it up with a song titled “Call You Mine” and reminded everyone to seek help when the stress becomes too much to handle on your own. The words above the stage now read, “Be Love”. The clever message board was a brilliant touch.

The show was a mix of rock numbers, songs from the new album including “Heavy is the Crown” and fan favorites like “September” and “Over You” but leaving out some others like “What About Now” and “Waiting for Superman.”

The venue was the perfect size for a show of this kind; intimate but not crowded. The seating above, along with the tables in the back and ample floor space gives everyone plenty of elbow room and a great view.

The fans got a great show, the band got a great reception, and a good time was had by all.

Check out the gallery of photos from the show below the setlist.

Daughtry Setlist:

Desperation

World on Fire

Changes Are Coming

No Surprise

Dearly Beloved

Drum Solo

Evil

Home

Cry For Help

It’s Not Over

Heavy Is the Crown

The Victim

Lioness

September

Encore:

Over You

Asylum