From the Stage to the Grave: Torchlight Parade Show Summaries

Welcome to the Torchlight Parade Blog!

Hey there, rock fans! Welcome to the official blog for Torchlight Parade, where we bring the circus to hard rock!

Here, you’ll get the inside scoop on our upcoming shows, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and updates on our latest music projects.

 

Upcoming Shows:

Mark your calendars! We can’t wait to see your faces and rock out together. Stay tuned for details on our setlist and special surprises!

 

Behind the Scenes:

Ever wonder what goes into our wild performances? From our unique 'life and death' persona to our theatrical stage presence, we’ll share our creative process and how we bring our music to life.

 

Get Involved:

We want to hear from you! Share your favorite Torchlight Parade moments in the comments or tag us in your concert photos on social media.
 

Thanks for being part of our journey. Rock on!


 

3/2/2025 Torchlight Parade Brings the Fire to KT’s Lounge / Patti Polizzi Benefit 

This past Sunday, KT’s Lounge on Telegraph was packed with love, music, and a whole lot of rock and roll as the St. Louis music scene came together to support one of their own. The benefit show for Patti Polizzi was nothing short of amazing, featuring a lineup of bands playing both covers and originals, all rallying to help Patti with her medical expenses.

 

A Night of Music and Community

Torchlight Parade had the honor of closing out the night, and we made sure to end it with a bang! The energy was electric, and the crowd was treated to a full-on spectacle—bagpipers, Michael Myers, Frankenstein, and even our Little Wolfie Man all made appearances. It was a night to remember, filled with great performances and a strong sense of community.

 

Cat Mues: A Driving Force in the St. Louis Music Scene

The event was hosted by Cat Mues, a powerhouse in the St. Louis music scene and a key figure in organizing and emceeing benefit shows. With her at the helm, everything ran smoothly, and the turnout was fantastic.

 

Patti Polizzi: A Beloved Member of the Rock & Roll Family

Patti’s husband, John, is a member of the well-known band Infringement, and Patti herself was a bartender at Charlotte’s Pub before her illness. The local music community has always been like family, stepping up in times of need, and this night proved just that.

 

Rock & Roll with a Purpose

At the end of the night, over $2,000 was raised to help Patti with her medical expenses—a testament to the love and generosity of the St. Louis rock and roll family. We’re honored to have been part of such an incredible night.

 

Stay Connected

To keep our fans engaged, we strive to provide consistent updates, compelling content, and a user-friendly experience. Want to catch our next show? Stay tuned to www.torchlightparade.com for tour dates, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, and ways to support the local music scene.

 

Torchlight Parade will always stand with our music community. Whether it’s a high-energy show or a cause worth fighting for, we bring everything we’ve got. See you at the next one!

 

 

 

 

12/17/2024 A Message From Torchlight Parade About Our Toys for Tots Show 

Saturday, December 14th, Torchlight Parade had the honor of sharing the stage with Cause of Ruin and The Nightmare for an epic Toys for Tots benefit show, and it was a night to remember! The energy in the room was electric as each band brought their A-game, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the amazing turnout and support.

 

Cause of Ruin kicked off the night with their high-energy set, playing all original material and even throwing in a hard version of Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel. Their holiday spirit was contagious as they rocked ugly Christmas sweaters, funny hats, and silly glasses, setting the festive mood for the night. Their passion for their music and their love for the cause was clear, and it was a blast sharing the stage with them.

 

The Nightmare brought their A-game with their Alice Cooper-inspired stage presence and unforgettable performance. The singer’s voice was pure authenticity, and their energy never wavered. One of the highlights of their set was during Cold Ethel, when they brought out a skeleton to dance with Alice, creating a spine-chilling yet fun atmosphere. The excitement didn’t stop there—they also brought out the guillotine for the dramatic decapitation of Alice, leaving the crowd in awe of their theatrical flair. The band captivated the audience with their incredible showmanship and left everyone in awe of their talent and charisma. It was a true pleasure to witness their impressive performance.

 

We also had the privilege of having Ivar the Micro join us for three cover songs, and wow—did he deliver! His amazing voice and charismatic stage presence were the perfect addition to the night. From start to finish, he nailed every song and kept the energy high, making the night even more special for everyone in attendance.

 

A Huge Thank You to Our Volunteers

 

We couldn’t have pulled off such a fantastic night without the help of some amazing volunteers. A huge thank you goes out to Ivar the Micro and Melissa, who took time out of their schedules and volunteered their time and talent to make the event extra special. Your contributions truly made a difference, and we’re so grateful for all that you did.

 

We also want to thank our roadies: Chris Martin, Chris Bovay, and Eddie Campbell for their hard work behind the scenes, keeping everything running smoothly. You guys are the backbone of what we do, and we couldn’t do it without you.

 

Merchandise sellers Melody Engel, Lisa Bovay, and Christina Martin did an amazing job handling our merch and keeping the crowd excited with some awesome band gear.

 

And a special shoutout to Cat Mues for being the emcee and keeping the energy high all night long. You kept the crowd hyped, and we loved your presence!

 

Night of Music and Giving

 

We also want to express our gratitude to the Marines, who collected all the donated toys for the Toys for Tots campaign and will help make Christmas morning a little brighter for kids in need. Thanks to everyone who donated, we collected over 10 full boxes of toys! Your generosity is amazing, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

 

Santa and Mrs. Claus also made a special appearance, spreading some extra holiday cheer throughout the night. The crowd loved it, and it definitely made the show feel even more magical!

 

Also, big thanks to Michael Myers, Frankenstein, and the little werewolf who joined us for some creepy fun during our set. You guys made the night extra festive and spooky!

 

Looking Ahead

 

The night wasn’t just about great music; it was about giving back and coming together as a community. Thank you to Red Flag, for hosting the event at their awesome venue, and to Bob and the sound crew for making sure the sound and lights were on point all night long. You guys went above and beyond, and we appreciate it!

 

And last but certainly not least, Cause of Ruin and The Nightmare, we can’t thank you enough for sharing the stage with us. We had an amazing time, and we can’t wait to return the favor and play for your crowds one day! We look forward to seeing you again soon.

 

Rock on,

Torchlight Parade 💀🎸

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/16/2024 Torchlight Parade Rocks Nightshop in Bloomington, IL 

Torchlight Parade took the stage at Nightshop in Bloomington, Illinois, for an unforgettable night of hard rock and theatrical energy. Known for their “life and death” persona, the band captivated the crowd with their unique style and high-energy performance. One of the standout moments of the night was their performance of the new track I’m Not Dead Yet, which quickly became a fan favorite. The dramatic flair and intensity of their show kept the audience on the edge of their seats, proving once again why Torchlight Parade is one of the top local bands.

 

Nightshop, while small, is a mighty venue that provides an incredible atmosphere for live music. Located in a vibrant area full of nightlife, it’s the perfect place to catch a show. The venue itself is clean and well-maintained, including the bathrooms, which is always a welcome bonus. The indoor stage is perfect for close-up performances, giving fans an up-close experience with the band. But the real gem of Nightshop is its outdoor stage, which is much larger and one that Torchlight Parade hopes to perform on in the spring or summer.

 

What really sets Nightshop apart is the amazing vibe. The place is filled with energy, and the owner ensures everything runs smoothly, creating a welcoming environment for both the bands and the audience. And if you're looking for something fun to do between sets, Nightshop has a great selection of pinball machines to enjoy.

 

The night at Nightshop was a perfect blend of powerful performances, great music, and an unforgettable atmosphere. Torchlight Parade left it all on stage, making it clear why they are an award-winning band. The fans were energized, the venue was on point, and the whole evening was a testament to the great live music scene in Bloomington. A night like this is what rock ‘n’ roll is all about!

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/27/2024 Torchlight Parade Rocks Halloween at the Castle in Lemay 

Halloween at the Castle in Lemay was the party to be at this year, and no one rocked it like Torchlight Parade. Doors opened at 6, and by the time everyone had trickled in, over 400 partygoers packed the place in wild costumes, ready for a night of Halloween madness and killer music.

 

Adding to the fun, $500 in gift cards were awarded to the best costumes of the night. Among the winners were unforgettable characters like Vikings, witch doctors, Napoleon, Marilyn Monroe, Cousin It, Alice Cooper, Jeepers Creepers, Austin Powers, and a beautiful, glittery, light-up ghost that stole everyone’s attention.

 

Two cover bands kicked things off, spinning a mix of classics and modern hits that had everyone pumped. But the real highlight? Torchlight Parade’s electrifying performance. They took the stage, and it was pure magic—originals, mind-blowing visuals, and an atmosphere you could feel to the bone. From start to finish, they owned the night with their signature mix of rock and theatricality. People now understand why Torchlight Parade was selected as Best Local Band by STL Headliner for the third year in a row.

 

Torchlight Parade showed St. Louis why they’re a fan favorite, especially for Halloween. It wasn’t just a concert; it was an experience, and one no one at the Castle will forget anytime soon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/25/2024 Torchlight Parade Unleashes Their New Video for "Frankenstein of Death" 

Today’s the day! Torchlight Parade just dropped their long-awaited video for "Frankenstein of Death," and it’s a true spectacle for fans of hard rock and horror alike. Mixing a classic monster story with a live performance, the video delivers everything you’d expect from these heavy-hitting St. Louis rockers: intensity, drama, and that dark, theatrical flair that only Torchlight Parade can pull off.

 

In the video, the band plays against a haunting backdrop that brings Frankenstein's lab to life. With pulsing lights, gritty effects, and a storyline that mirrors the creation of Frankenstein’s monster, we see the band bring their trademark blend of life and death imagery into sharp focus. Torch (vocals), Dark Horse (guitar), Rattlesnake Jake (bass), The Kraken (drums), and The Raven (Danny, rhythm guitar) each bring their own presence to the set, embodying the chaos and intensity of a lab where something terrifyingly alive comes to life.

 

The concept reflects the song's energy—heavy riffs, intense lyrics, and a feeling that something dark and powerful is rising. Shot with a mix of horror and vintage rock show vibes, this video is the perfect next chapter for Torchlight Parade. It’s a must-see for fans of hard rock, horror classics, and all things that go bump in the night! Check out "Frankenstein of Death" now, and get ready to join the Parade!

Frankenstein of Death Video

10/20/2024 Torchlight Parade Rocks Rottenween in Hillsboro, IL! 

Torchlight Parade recently took the stage at Rottenween in Hillsboro, Illinois, and it was an epic party! The atmosphere was electric, with tons of people dressed up in creative and over-the-top costumes, including a giant stilt-walking Grim Reaper, adding to the festive vibe of the night.

 

The event featured five fantastic bands, including Torchlight Parade, each bringing their unique sound and energy to the stage. The diverse lineup ensured there was something for everyone, keeping the crowd engaged and energized throughout the night.

 

Torchlight Parade delivered an unforgettable performance, showcasing their signature hard rock style and theatrical flair. Adding to the excitement, iconic characters Michael Myers and Frankenstein joined the band on stage, enhancing the Halloween-themed atmosphere. The band fed off the crowd’s energy, making for a dynamic and engaging show that left everyone buzzing.

 

In addition to the music, we sold some merch and spread the word about the band, connecting with fans and sharing our passion for rock.

 

Rottenween proved to be not just a concert but a full-blown party, bringing together music lovers and Halloween enthusiasts for an unforgettable night. Overall, it was a fantastic event, full of great music and spirited celebration, making Hillsboro the place to be for an incredible Halloween celebration!

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/19/2024 Torchlight Parade Rocked Pizza Records in Jacksonville, IL! 

Torchlight Parade recently lit up the stage at Pizza Records in Jacksonville, Illinois, delivering a night of unforgettable rock alongside two killer acts: Archdragon and January.

 

Pizza Records isn’t just a venue—it’s a treasure trove for music lovers. With a great selection of vinyl, tape cassettes, 8-tracks, and CDs, as well as patches, stickers, shirts, and pins, it’s a true gem. Browsing the shelves is a trip through music history, with something for every collector. Plus, the owners were awesome to work with, making the experience even better.

 

The stage was decent, and the sound was great, allowing Torchlight Parade to showcase their signature hard rock style and theatrical edge with a dark, circus-like performance, featuring fan favorites and new hits.

 

Archdragon, a one-man band known for powerful vocals, added to the experience by telling a tale while wearing a dragon mask, infusing a unique theatrical element into the performance.

 

January was comprised of young guys with a punk and rock style, making them fun to watch and bringing an energetic vibe to the night.

 

It was a night of great music and an unbeatable rock ‘n’ roll spirit, all in one of Jacksonville’s coolest spots for music lovers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/4/2024 New Album Coming Soon: Children of the Night by Torchlight Parade! 

We’re thrilled to finally share the details of our upcoming album, Children of the Night! This one’s got everything you love about Torchlight Parade—big riffs, killer hooks, and a spooky vibe that’ll send chills down your spine. Inspired by classic monster movies, the album is packed with eerie tales and haunting themes like vampires, the wolfman, and more creatures lurking in the shadows.

 

The artwork is killer, setting the tone for the mysterious, cinematic journey you're about to take. And trust us—the music is to die for! We’ve even brought back the legendary Teddy Zig Zag on keyboards, adding that extra haunting touch to the mix.

 

We’ll be announcing the release date soon, so stay tuned. You won’t want to miss out on this one—it’s perfect for those who love the strange, the thrilling, and the spine-tingling!

 

Rock on,

Torchlight Parade

 

 

10/01/2024 Testimonial from -Jeff Smith / Smith J Photography 

The Torchlight Parade show last Saturday at Park Hills Underground was a milestone performance IMO.  I've never heard the band sound better or perform a tighter or higher energy set.  The venue itself is unassuming from the outside but make no mistake the inside is a really cool layout with a decent sized stage.  The staff were awesome and whomever was running sound all night absolutely nailed it for all three bands.  

 

I've seen many a TLP show and this hands down was one the best I have witnessed.  Below are what I was able to capture throughout the evening and I hope they capture the grit, sound, and energy that happened.  Thanks to the band for giving me access to capture this fun also to everyone who enjoys my photos, whether in a band or not.  I love sharing things I get excited about in hopes that it will bring a bit of joy to you as well.

 

 

 

-Jeff Smith / Jeff Smith Photography 

9/29/2024 Torchlight Parade Wins STL HEADLINERS for the Third Year in a Row! 

We’re beyond excited to announce that Torchlight Parade has won Best Local Band in the STL HEADLINERS awards for the third year in a row! This prestigious contest, hosted by the St. Louis Post Dispatch, lets locals vote on the best of everything in St. Louis—restaurants, bars, events, and most importantly, bands. Thanks to your support, we’ve been crowned the best local band once again

9/29/2024

Torchlight Parade Wins STL HEADLINERS for the Third Year in a Row!

 

We’re beyond excited to announce that Torchlight Parade has won Best Local Band in the STL HEADLINERS awards for the third year in a row! This prestigious contest, hosted by the St. Louis Post Dispatch, lets locals vote on the best of everything in St. Louis—restaurants, bars, events, and most importantly, bands. Thanks to your support, we’ve been crowned the best local band once again!

 

It’s an honor to know that our hard rock music and circus-like performances continue to capture your votes. With our unique “life and death” theme and our off-stage “family guys” persona, we’ve always strived to bring something special to the St. Louis music scene. Winning Best Local Band in the STL HEADLINERS contest means the world to us because it’s a reflection of what you, the fans, love most about us.

 

Thank you for your votes and for keeping the torch lit year after year. We can't wait to rock out with you again!

 

Rock on,

Torchlight Parade

 

 

Team Brett’s 5th Annual Concert for a Cause: Music, Memories, and Making a Difference!

 

Posted on April 29, 2025 | By Jen Engel

 

What do you get when you mix great music, awesome food, and a room full of generous hearts? An unforgettable night for an amazing cause!

 

Team Brett’s 5th Annual Concert for a Cause on Saturday, April 26th, at the Arnold Eagles Hall brought the community together for an evening of live music, fun, and fundraising—all in support of pediatric cancer research through St. Baldrick’s Foundation. And wow, what a night it was!

 

Let’s start from the top…

 

Guests poured in, found their seats, and took their time browsing a seriously impressive lineup of raffle baskets and silent auction items. The food spread didn’t disappoint—Domino’s Pizza, Pretzel Boy pretzels, candy, soda, and a full bar. Folks ate, drank, mingled, and soaked up the good vibes.

 

Then came the music…

 

Kicking things off, the incredibly talented JoJo Matea took the stage with a soulful mix of classic covers, pop favorites, and original songs. She totally captivated the room and set the tone for the night.

 

Next up: Aragon—the teen talent competition finalists—brought the energy big time! Their classic rock covers got the crowd singing along, and the younger kids couldn’t stop smiling as the band played their hearts out.

 

As the lights shifted and the fog started rolling in, The Nightmare hit the stage. People rushed to the front to catch every moment of their killer tribute set. They brought the spectacle, and the crowd loved it!

 

Closing out the night, Torchlight Parade lit up the stage with a full-on rock show—complete with insane guitar solos, theatrical flair, and epic crowd engagement. Their performance was electric, and fans couldn’t get enough.

 

Major shoutout to Ariba Audio for creating a concert-quality experience. The sound and lighting—including fog, smoke, and cloud effects—took everything to the next level.

 

Special thanks to the MVPs behind the scenes…

 

We want to thank Cat Mues for being an awesome emcee and keeping everything on track, and The Roots FM for advertising and helping spread the word. You made this event shine!

 

Huge appreciation to:

 

All of the bands who volunteered their time and talent

 

Every single sponsor and raffle donor

 

The amazing team of volunteers—teens and adults—who made the night run smoothly

 

And the two incredible 50/50 raffle winners who donated their winnings back to the cause (how cool is that?!)

 

 

A big thank you to the Arnold Eagles Hall for generously allowing us to hold this amazing event at their venue. Your support made all of this possible!

 

But most of all… we did this for Brett.

 

Brett’s strength and bravery continue to inspire us all. This event is more than music and fun—it’s a tribute to his legacy and a promise to help future kids and families facing the unimaginable. By continuing this fight, we honor Brett and support the lifesaving research that gives hope to others.

 

Together, we raised over $15,000!

 

If you had a great time (and we know you did), show some love and keep the support going!

Follow the bands:

JoJo Matea – https://www.instagram.com/j0j0_725?igsh=anNncGw0ZTdvMGoz

 

Aragon – https://www.facebook.com/share/15ToG5a4T8/

 

The Nightmare – https://www.facebook.com/share/18zBaZPC4k/

 

 

Torchlight Parade – https://torchlightparade.com/coffin-club-contact-us

 

Follow and support Team Brett here: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Nj76bC51B/

 

We’re already excited for next year. Until then—rock on and stay awesome!