Three stellar heavy metal bands hailing from the late ’80s and ’90s proved they are three stellar heavy metal bands in 2010. Thursday, Aug. 26, at Tingley Coliseum proved to be a night of more than just memory-lane metal in the best possible way.

Testament took the stage with full force, delivering an awesome—albeit too short for this viewer’s tastes—set of straightforward, no-frills metal. Fans were right there chanting lyrics and appeasing Chuck Billy’s requests to divide and conquer during a game of “mosh more than that side.” Much to security’s dismay, the crowd was quite ambitious—yet good to one another. These boys deserve a spotlight on an upcoming tour for sure.

Megadeth was in awesome form, and that’s kudos coming from a lukewarm fan of their recorded material. Deciding to drop their volume a bit was a golden choice, as all lyrics were distinguishable and poignant, their message courtesy of Dave Mustaine. The band played a host of old and new material, including such crowd favorites as "Peace Sells ... But Who's Buying" and the radio hit "Symphony of Destruction." Many wardrobe and guitar changes later, and the audience seemed won over by these mega metal men.

That is until Slayer took center stage. There was no mistaking this was what this crowd came hungry for. The complete brutality of Slayer’s metal onslaught with it's punk overtones rattled this rodeo-and-cow arena to its very foundation. Tingley Coliseum still has the ability to host top-notch, big-name shows as much as the The Pavilion.

A wealth of songs came from albums Seasons in the Abyss and Reign in Blood. Guitarist Kerry King and company delivered one explosive, guitar-screaming song after another. Working the crowd into a frenzy was the name of the game, and played well it was. By the time "Angel of Death" rang out, Albuquerque was all ears and pit-loving leg stomps. This night was owned by Slayer, and members gave it their all right up until the house lights came up.

All three bands were a welcome reminder that in this age of downloads, backing tracks and glittery over-production, kick ass bands still keep kids and elders alike coming back for more.

More Videos

• slayer
• megadeth
• metal