Staind at Turning Stone Casino — A Night of Power, Reflection, and Tribute Staind returned to Central New York with a near sold-out performance at Turning Stone Casino. Proving once again that Aaron Lewis and company can still command a stage. The band delivered a career-spanning set that blended the grit of their heavier material with the introspection fans have always connected to. From the opening riffs, Staind reminded the crowd why they’ve remained staples of post-grunge and hard rock. Favorites like “It’s Been Awhile” and “Right Here” drew deafening sing-alongs, while deeper cuts showcased their knack for balancing heaviness with melody. Lewis’s vocals were raw yet controlled, carrying the kind of lived-in emotion that only deepens with time.

The defining moment of the night came mid-set, when Lewis introduced “Something to Remind You” as a tribute to Charlie Kirk. The energy in the room shifted immediately. As the band eased into the song, the venue fell nearly silent, fans listening intently to every word. The performance wasn’t just moving — it was communal. Many in the audience sang along softly, turning the tribute into a shared moment of remembrance.

What made the dedication so impactful was its simplicity. The lighting dimmed, the music softened, and Lewis delivered the song with striking sincerity. For those few minutes, the hard edges of the show melted away, leaving space for reflection and connection. Staind showed that rock concerts aren’t just about volume and spectacle they’re also about connection. It’s one of those moments that helps remind why live music still has power.