
© Ethan Carey
With a dazzling display of musicianship and unrelenting energy, Cory Wong and his band lit up Rockhal Club on Thursday night, turning the venue into a funk-fueled celebration of rhythm and groove.
The energy inside Rockhal Club this Thursday night was nothing short of electric as Cory Wong and his band took the stage, delivering one of the most exhilarating and technically stunning performances I’ve ever witnessed.
Dressed in matching jumpsuits, Wong and his band kicked off the show with an unexpected yet epic rendition of the Halo theme. Towering drums, rich harmonies, and Wong’s signature percussive guitar playing merged into a massive crescendo, setting the tone for an unforgettable night of groove-driven, high-energy music.
Without missing a beat, the band launched straight into their set with unrelenting fervour. I was struck and totally impressed by Wong’s stage presence and magnetic charisma—darting across the stage while interacting with the crowd, he made even the most intricate guitar lines look effortless. His confidence and charisma as a performer were undeniable, proving why he’s considered one of the most exciting bandleaders in modern funk.
For the next hour and a half, musicianship took centre stage. Every member of Wong’s band was a virtuoso in their own right, seamlessly blending technical precision with uncontainable energy. My mind was repeatedly blown at what I was hearing, with each of the solos being better than the last. It was something incredibly special to witness. One of the most impressive aspects of the night was Wong’s ability to step back and let his bandmates shine. From blistering keyboard runs to mind-bending bass solos, each musician had their moment in the spotlight, leaving the audience in awe.
The sheer energy radiating from the stage was infectious. Wong’s signature funk grooves had the crowd moving from start to finish, with fans breaking into spontaneous dance as each song built in intensity. Whether through tight, syncopated rhythms or wild improvisational moments, the band kept the audience fully engaged, hanging on every single note. A special shout out must be made to the insane rhythm section, with drummer Peter Janjic performing one of the most jaw dropping drum solos I have ever witnessed.
Beyond the technical brilliance, what stood out most was the pure joy that Wong and his band brought to the performance. Their chemistry, humor, and love for the music were palpable, making the experience feel more like a celebratory jam session than just a concert.
For any fan of live music, this was a night to remember. For any musician like myself, it was nothing short of inspiring. Cory Wong and his band are an unmissable live experience, and there’s no doubt—I’ll be at the next show.