Demon Sloth at The Whisky – Live Review

Chris Iorio of Demon Sloth

DEMON SLOTH at The Whisky – West Hollywood, CA – March 18, 2026

Jeris Johnson and the Butcher Babies may have been the co-headliners at the world‑famous Whisky A Go Go, but earlier in the night it was Las Vegas’ own Demon Sloth who slammed the gas pedal and left a shockwave of adrenaline across the iconic Sunset Strip stage. Delivering a wildly original, rock‑tinged strain of heavy metal, the band wasted no time proving they were there to make the night unforgettable. From the very first notes of their opening song, Demon Sloth came out swinging with an intensity that felt both fresh and ferocious.

Their trio of Spotify tracks — “First Blood,” “Gotta Go,” and “Bloody Puddles” — hit even harder in a live setting, erupting with raw energy and razor‑sharp musicianship. And what a fascinating lineup this band brings to the stage.

Brock Gates of Demon Sloth

Front and center is Chris Iorio, handling lead vocals and guitar. Best known for his work with Adelitas Way, Chris is a magnetic frontman — confident, seasoned, and effortlessly engaging. But the real scene‑stealer of the night was Demon Sloth’s lead guitarist, Brock Gates. Just 12 years old (now officially 13 — happy birthday, Brock), he plays with a level of coolness and technical firepower that would make seasoned players do a double take. His riffs are crisp, his solos are bold, and his stage presence is already dialed in. Knowing that Chris Iorio was his guitar teacher before the band even formed adds a great full‑circle touch to their chemistry. Honestly, the more solos Brock gets, the better — the kid is pure electricity.

Keeping the family talent flowing, Brock’s younger brother Rock Gates brings his own brand of chaos to the stage. With death‑metal growls, fearless charisma, and a mischievous swagger, Rock nearly steals the entire show. His vocals channel the ferocity of bands like Cannibal Corpse or Immolation, yet he delivers it with the confidence of someone twice his age. He’s a natural-born performer, and the crowd felt it instantly.

Rock Gates of Demon Sloth

Anchoring all this youthful firepower is a rock‑solid rhythm section: Will “The Dr.” Daines on bass and Chas Cantrell on drums. Together, they give Demon Sloth the backbone needed to support the band’s high‑octane theatrics.

Their final song — and upcoming single — “Unfollow Me” poured into the room with venom and swagger, sealing the deal. By the time they wrapped, Demon Sloth had not only conquered the Whisky, they’d earned themselves a legion of new fans who won’t soon forget what they witnessed.

Here’s hoping we see a whole lot more from this rising powerhouse — because if this show was any indication, Demon Sloth is just getting started.

And stay tuned — an exclusive interview with Chris Iorio and Brock Gates is coming soon to Highwire Daze Online.

(Review by Ken Morton – Photos by Scott Waters)

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