Make Them Suffer at The Bottom Lounge brought chaos, talent, and extreme energy to Chicago!

Written and Captured By | Miguel Peralta

Wind Waker kicked off the night with an intense set, jumping straight into the action. The Aussie metalcore band is making waves, influenced by bands like I Prevail and Northlane. Lead singer Liam Guinane’s strong clean vocals are taking the band in the right direction. I highly recommend catching them live or listening to their latest music—it’s Wind Waker at their best.

Next up was Aviana, and all I can say is WOW. I knew a bit about the band before covering them, but their performance blew me away. The whole idea of masked musicians intrigued me, and they did not disappoint. Their sound was heavy, and their stage presence was the most impressive. The masked band members brought so much energy and were incredibly photogenic.

The crowd in Chicago was getting hyped for the highly anticipated Like Moths to Flames. This was my second time seeing them, the first being at the House of Blues last October. Lead singer Chris was incredible, with a perfect balance between clean vocals and harsh screams. He loves engaging the crowd, asking for sing-alongs, cracking jokes, and encouraging even more energy. Having the show at the Bottom Lounge was the right choice—the whole venue was alive with movement, from the back to the front, with everyone dancing, jumping, moshing, and crowd surfing. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing them again—they keep blowing me away every time.

Finally, it was Make Them Suffer’s turn to bring the sold-out crowd to their feet. From start to finish, it was all gas, no brakes. The energy was palpable, from the photo pit to the back of the venue. A Make Them Suffer performance is electrifying—crushing breakdowns, haunting melodies, and raw intensity. They seamlessly blend aggression with atmospheric moments, keeping the crowd locked in the whole time.

Fronted by Sean Harmanis (unclean vocals) and Alex Reade (clean vocals & keyboards), the band’s energy is relentless. Nick McLernon (lead guitar, backing vocals), Jaya Jeffery (bass), and Jordan Mather (drums) round out the lineup, delivering a tight, precise performance that pushes the limits of modern metalcore. From heavy riffs to ethereal keyboard-driven moments, they craft an experience that’s as punishing as it is emotionally charged.

Fans can expect mosh pits, deafening singalongs, and an energy that doesn’t stop. Whether it’s Harmanis’ guttural screams, Reade’s soaring cleans, or the crushing instrumentals, Make Them Suffer commands the stage with an intensity that leaves audiences breathless.

If you haven’t seen them live yet, get ready for an unforgettable night of chaos and catharsis.