On a perfect spring/early Summer Worcester, MA evening, the Palladium was absolutely destroyed by the wall of industrial sound known simply as, Ministry. On top of seeing Ministry with new bassist, Tony Campos (Fear Factory), just seeing the living legend that is Al Jorgenson is almost indescribable especially for someone just seeing Ministry for their first time. After finally being able to get to see these icons, I am happy to report that it was even better than I anticipated.

The SixxiS, by Hillarie Jason Photography

 

After opener The Sixxis wrapped up a short set, it was time for the headliner. The stage was set up with a typical raised drum kit in the back center stage, keyboard/samples to left. Up high against the back wall was a giant screen that a projector on the balcony was projecting various images, colors, and video clips that gave each song played its own personality. With a new album out recently, From Beer to Eternity, it did not surprise anyone that most songs played would be from the new release. Some tracks for the new album include opener, ‘Hail to His Majesty (Peasants)’ , ‘PermaWar’, and ‘Perfect Storm’. Not being very familiar with the new album, this was a great way to assure me that I have been messing up and need to get my hands on it. The fans also got a few other goodies from the Ministry archives such as: ‘LiesLiesLies’, ‘Waiting’, ‘Worthless’, ‘Life is Good’, ‘N.W.O.’ and my favorite (which ended up being the closer), ‘Thieves’.

Ministry, by Hillarie Jason Photography

It was a true experience and privilege to be able to see Al Jorgenson play live even in 2015. If you hear from a friend that Ministry is all done or just doesn’t have it anymore, you can tell them they are wrong. Catch this tour if it has yet to come through your town or keep pretending Ministry is washed up.

Ministry, by Hillarie Jason Photography Ministry, by Hillarie Jason Photography

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WORDS BY TIM LEDIN

PHOTOS BY HILLARIE JASON PHOTOGRAPHY