A Night of Intensity, Emotion, and Unforgettable Moments

On August 12, the Riviera Theatre in Chicago was shaken to its core as Architects brought their North American tour to the Windy City. Backed by powerful support from Holywatr and ERRA, the night delivered a perfect storm of sonic intensity, emotional catharsis, and crowd energy that reminded everyone why Architects remain one of the most dominant forces in modern heavy music.

The Openers: Setting the Stage

Holywatr wasted no time in making their mark, storming onto the stage with an unrelenting presence. Their frontman pulled off one of the most memorable moments of the night, crowd-surfing while singing without missing a note, earning the first eruption of cheers from the packed Riviera.

Following them, ERRA dialed up the technical firepower. Their set showcased a brilliant light show and razor-sharp sound mix, with vocalist Jesse Cash’s soaring melodies intertwining seamlessly with JT’s guttural screams. ERRA’s set proved why they’ve earned their reputation as one of metalcore’s most dynamic live acts.

Architects Take the Stage

When the house lights dimmed and chants of “Ar-chi-tects!” echoed through the venue, anticipation peaked—and the band delivered. Opening with “Elegy,” the group wasted no time setting a blistering pace. The crowd roared through newer tracks like “Whiplash” and “when we were young,” before exploding during longtime fan favorites like “Royal Beggars” and “Doomsday.”

The emotional centerpiece came with “Gone With The Wind,” performed with raw intensity that transformed the room into a shared moment of catharsis. Every lyric echoed back from the audience, a testament to the enduring impact of the song.

Architects closed the night with an unstoppable trio—“Blackhole,” “Seeing Red,” and “Animals.” By the final notes, the Riviera was a sea of raised fists, sweat, and pure adrenaline.

Final Thoughts

The Riviera Theatre’s vintage charm and crisp acoustics amplified the night’s intensity, while the production stayed sharp and focused letting the music speak for itself. From the electrifying openers to the devastating encore, the show was a masterclass in live performance.

For Chicago fans, this was more than a concert it was an experience of connection, release, and community. Architects proved once again that they’re not just a band; they’re a force.