If there has been one destination that we have been asked to bring a "Secret Show" to time and time again, it has been Albuquerque, New Mexico. No joke. Over the years, you guys have asked a lot. But more than just requesting New Mexico you have very specifically asked for a metal show in the area, which is exactly what we delivered last Wednesday when Intronaut, Kylesa, and the mighty Mastodon went at it in front of 300 lucky fans. The line started early in the afternoon at Launchpad and, by the time doors opened it ran around the block, where Morrissey was preparing for a show that evening at a different venue in town.

The Pope of Mope might not be a metal fan, but those inside watching Intronaut play select songs from their second album, Prehistoricisms, certainly were. The band got the crowd moving and, moreover, got kids amped for Kylesa, who churned out a handful of the heavy dirges that can be found on their latest disc, Static Tensions. The band played a short but brutal set and then, of course, it was time for Mastodon, who came out and immediately blew everyone away.

Most in attendance surely expected the band to play at least a few songs from their epic new album, Crack The Skye. But little did they know that the Atlanta-bred titans would play the whole thing. Better yet, they did so while playing in front of a giant light screen, which flashed corresponding images as they tore through tracks like "Divinations" and "Ghost Of Karelia." It was an epic performance, to say the least, and we have to thank the members of the band for making it happen.

This was actually the band's second show with us (the first was, two years ago, opening up for Slayer) and it was definitely memorable. So thanks to them as well as Tom and Jay at Warner Bros, Intronaut, Kylesa and the staff at Launchpad. Also, big ups to our new sponosr Citi Forward for making these shows free to everyone. You guys rule.

As for us, we'll see you at the next show...