Hollywood Undead is a rap rock or nu metal group that hails from Los Angeles, California. They formed in 2005 and have produced two albums. “Swan Songs” dropped in 2008, via A&M/Octone Records; “American Tragedy” in April of that same year. The members, who go by Charlie Scene, Da Kurlzz, Danny, Funny Man, J-Dog, and Johnny 3 Tears, take their individuality to the next level with their trademark masks.

Donned in metallic and colorful masks, Hollywood Undead brought their dual genre magic to Roseland Ballroom on November 11th. With the opening track, “Undead”, the crowd’s energy exploded. The audience moved along to the music with hands high up in the air. Right then and there, it became obvious that Hollywood Undead has a connection with their fans that goes beyond the music. At one point during their set, they took off their masks, completely exposing themselves. The mysterious air of the band entirely cleared up as they proceeded to chat about the excitement of having family from California in the crowd. The spotlight then glowed towards the balcony on parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, which created an ideal setting for the performance of the track, “California”.

Unveiling their tender side, Hollywood Undead revealed a multi-talented side as well. With hints of rock, rap and metal, the group’s sound was consistently refreshing. With the track, “Lights Out”, Hollywood Undead transitioned from a rock chorus to hip-hop verses. Yes, the switch is noticeable, but Hollywood Undead builds both genre beats simultaneously throughout the track, which makes the change far from jarring. Throwing metal into the mix, the group added even more variety with the tune, “Tendencies”. Deepening their vocal register on “Tendencies”, the band triggered the crowd to surf. Nearing the end of the show, Hollywood Undead unleashed their lyrically powerful tune, “Paradise Lost”. The audience sang along with the group, establishing a sense of unity between the crowd and Hollywood Undead.

That’s a wrap at Roseland Ballroom. Unexpectedly, the evening was quite the emotional night, but with no complaints. To those bands who think the tougher the exterior the better, take note because Hollywood Undead has proven you rebels wrong.

by Jessica Guzman