Disturbed Bring Metal Theatre to The O2: A Darkly Triumphant Celebration of The Sickness

Alan Bryce
Oct 30
3 min read

O2 London – 26th October 2025.

WORDS / IMAGES ALAN BRYCE

Disturbed Bring Metal Theatre to The O2: A Darkly Triumphant Celebration of The Sickness — Alan Bryce Photo Credit

The night at The O2 Arena was electric with anticipation as fans gathered for the UK leg of The Sickness 25th Anniversary Tour. Sharing the stage with thrash legends Megadeth initially raised some eyebrows, but the combination ultimately delivered an unforgettable evening brimming with metal nostalgia and intensity. The venue’s acoustics, which can sometimes be hit or miss, were perfectly tuned, ensuring every note was clear and impactful.

Disturbed transformed the stage into a dark industrial theatre, setting the tone with Huey Lewis’ "Back in Time" playing over the PA. Frontman David Draiman made a dramatic entrance strapped to a stretcher in a straitjacket, paying homage to the band's early days. The performance was elevated by pyrotechnics, dramatic lighting, and props like an electric chair, creating a near rock opera experience. The death-scene finale of the first act was particularly chilling, drawing a moment of near-total silence from the crowd before erupting into enthusiastic applause.

The first set was a complete run-through of The Sickness (2000), played in chronological order, which was a real treat for long-time fans. Tracks like "Stupify," "Down With the Sickness," and "Voices" had the arena roaring, reaffirming the album’s status as a Nu-Metal masterpiece. After a 20-minute intermission, the second set featured greatest hits, including "Ten Thousand Fists," "Bad Man," and covers like "Land of Confusion" and "The Sound of Silence." While these hits were well-received, the energy dipped slightly compared to the theatrical first act, partly due to extended changeovers between songs.

Draiman’s commanding presence and menacing character work were standout elements of the evening. His vocal delivery was powerful, and the band—Dan Donegan on guitar, John Moyer on bass, and Mike Wengren on drums—was impeccably tight, producing a massive, chugging sound that reverberated throughout the venue. Fans responded with unrelenting enthusiasm, especially during the iconic choruses of "Down With the Sickness." The combination of theatricality and nostalgia created a night that felt both celebratory and immersive.

David Draiman’s vocal control was exceptional. His guttural roars on "Down With the Sickness" were feral yet precise, while his clean delivery on "The Sound of Silence" showcased a haunting vulnerability. His ability to switch between aggression and melody kept the audience captivated.

Dan Donegan was a force of nature on guitar. His riffs on "Stupify" and "Voices" were razor-sharp, and his solos, particularly during "Indestructible," were fluid and expressive without veering into self-indulgence. His use of whammy effects and harmonics added texture that elevated the live arrangements.

John Moyer’s bass was thunderous, providing a punchy tone that anchored the groove and added a percussive edge. His interaction with Wengren during breakdowns gave the rhythm section a muscular cohesion.

Mike Wengren’s drumming was relentless yet nuanced. His double-kick work on "The Game" and "Ten Thousand Fists" drove the energy forward, while his dynamic shifts during quieter moments—like the intro to "The Sound of Silence"—demonstrated impressive restraint and musicality.

The audience was fully engaged throughout the night. Mosh pits erupted during "Stupify," while thousands of phone lights illuminated the arena during "The Sound of Silence." Draiman’s frequent interaction with fans, combined with the band’s tight execution, created a communal energy that few acts can replicate.

Disturbed’s London show was more than a concert—it was a spectacle. The first act’s conceptual staging and full-album performance were the evening’s high point, offering a visceral reminder of why The Sickness remains a cornerstone of the genre. While the second act lacked some momentum, the overall experience was a triumph of nostalgia, showmanship, and sonic power. The evening concluded with a heartfelt encore, leaving the audience in awe and eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Disturbed’s storied career.

Setlist:

-The Sickness – Full Album –