Brantley Gilbert Explodes on Total Mortgage Arena
LOUD. That is how I can describe my Saturday night in Bridgeport, Connecticut at the Total Mortgage Arena for Brantley Gilbert’s The Tattoo Tour 2025. This was my first time covering a show at this venue. Total Mortgage Arena is a multi-purpose indoor venue that has become a hub for sports, concerts, and community events for the area. Originally known as the Arena at Harbor Yard, it was constructed in 2001 as part of a larger revitalization effort aimed at transforming Bridgeport’s waterfront area.
The arena was built adjacent to the Ballpark at Harbor Yard (now known as Seaside Park Ballpark) and has a seating capacity of approximately 10,000. It quickly established itself as the home of the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, an American Hockey League (AHL) team affiliated with the New York Islanders. In addition to hockey, the arena has hosted a range of sporting events including basketball games, wrestling matches, concerts and figure skating competitions.
Beyond sports, Total Mortgage Arena has welcomed numerous concerts and entertainment events over the years, featuring major musical acts spanning genres from rock and country to hip-hop and pop.
Opening up the show Austin Snell. Snell is an emerging country-rock artist known for blending gritty rock influences with traditional country storytelling. Hailing from Dudley, Georgia, Snell grew up surrounded by classic rock and country music, drawing inspiration from artists like Nickelback and Jason Aldean. His performance reminded me of “grunge country” if that’s a thing. He was very animated on stage and gave a very impressive performance. His upbeat personality and rowdiness kept me entertained the whole time. Snell’s crew decided to play a tour prank on him and trash his stage as he performed his opening track “Excuse The Mess”. Tour pranks continued throughout his set culminating of about 5 bass players storming the stage. At this point patrons were still entering the venue and sadly many missed Snell’s opening performance and I honestly feel bad for them. They missed out on a very good performer that fit this concert bill perfectly. Snell’s set was short and sweat only blessing us with 8 songs. But those powerful vocals will last a while in our memories. I hope that he has continued success and we get to catch him again on a headlining tour of his own.
As the fans continued to trickle in Travis Denning took the stage. This would be our second time seeing Denning. We saw his last summer open up for HARDY on his headlining tour. A repeat performance of what I remembered. What struck me about Denning is his guitar skills. He may be one of the most underrated guitar players in country music. Every song he would bust out in a solo that sounded perfect. Truly remarkable and it continues to blow me away. Denning like Snell and Brantley hails from Georgia. This is surely a Georgia boy lineup.
In 2014, Denning moved to Nashville to pursue his music career. He quickly made a name for himself as a songwriter, penning tracks for artists like Jason Aldean, Justin Moore, and Chase Rice showcasing his ability to have success in the music business. Denning's breakthrough as a solo artist came in 2018 with the release of his debut single "David Ashley Parker from Powder Springs," a nostalgic anthem about youthful adventures. The song resonated with fans and showcased Denning’s knack for storytelling. In 2020, he achieved his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Country Airplay chart with "After a Few," further cementing his status as a rising star in country music. Denning like Snell was a perfect addition to this tour with his high energy and on stage presence to fills all the checkboxes. Denning’s rendition of Bon Jovi’s “Wanted Dead or Alive” Had the whole crowd finally starting to wake up after a very lackluster start. The crowd’s energy was very mellow through the first two acts. I don’t understand why as both these artists put on very upbeat and near perfection sets. Denning finished with his signature “After a Few” hit and by then the crowd was finally ready for Brantley Gilbert.
Brantley Gilbert is known for his gritty vocals, raw storytelling, and rebellious spirit. Born in Jefferson, Georgia, Gilbert grew up with a love for music and began writing songs as a teenager. His early influences ranged from country legends like Johnny Cash to rock icons such as Lynyrd Skynyrd and Metallica, shaping his signature blend of country and rock.
In 2009, Gilbert independently released his debut album, "Modern Day Prodigal Son," followed by "Halfway to Heaven" in 2010. The latter caught the attention of Big Machine Label Group, leading to a re-release that featured hits like "Country Must Be Country Wide" and "You Don’t Know Her Like I Do," both of which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Gilbert made a name for himself as a songwriter, penning chart-topping songs for other artists, including "My Kinda Party" and "Dirt Road Anthem," both made famous by Jason Aldean both of which we were grateful to hear played live.
Brantley came out swinging after a short video on a massive screen of Tattoos throughout history and different meanings they have to individuals. Welcomed by fireworks and fire Gilbert emerged by the now awake and ready to party crowd. For everyone that was at the show seemingly bored were now on their feet screaming for Gilbert. The sound guy deserves an award for the quality blaring from all the speakers. This concert was going to be loud and knock you on your ass. Still sleeping? Not anymore. Brantley Gilbert rolled into town like a thunderstorm adorning Thor’s hammer in hand. It was clear the night was going to be one for the books. With his signature gravelly voice and rebellious attitude, he poured his heart into every song. Tracks like "My Kinda Party" and "Country Must Be Country Wide" ignited the crowd, while slower ballads like "You Don’t Know Her Like I Do" brought a wave of emotion, with cell phone lights swaying across the venue like stars. I always love when the cell phone lights come out. Days of the lighters are gone but the nostalgia has been preserved by modern technology.
The show was more than a concert it felt as though we were living through an experience. Gilbert’s stories between songs gave fans a glimpse into the moments that inspired his music. He spoke candidly about life, love, and redemption, making the night feel personal and authentic. If there is one thing you can take away from his personality it’s that he is authentic. That will never be in doubt. A standout moment came when Gilbert launched into "One Hell of an Amen," a powerful tribute to fallen soldiers and loved ones. The audience responded with overwhelming reverence, proving the deep connection Gilbert has with his fans. Chants of USA blasted through the rafters in unison. It felt proud to be an American.
The band’s hard-hitting sound, complete with searing guitar solos and pounding drums, blended perfectly with Gilbert’s gritty vocals. All three guitarists were damn near perfect. The loud crisp sound showcased the talent that Gilbert’s and consists of. They may be on of the heaviest bands in country music. It was great listening to these guys belt lead after lead and riff after riff. Truly remarkable coming from these guys. One of the best performances country music has to offer.
The stage design was equally impressive as the band, with dynamic lighting and pyrotechnics that matched the intensity of the performance. Production wise this was top-notched and I can’t think of anything that could have been added visually. We were blessed to have it all. Pyro, fog, cryo jets, perfect lighting and a mega-screen. Nothing was left to the imagination. Everything was thought of all planned. Kudos to everyone involved. Gilbert delivered a concert that was equal parts rowdy and heartfelt, proving once again why he’s a powerhouse in country rock. He rocked out just as I thought he would have. An amazing performer and if you are a fan and you missed out then make it a priority to catch Gilbert next time he comes to a location near…or far from you. BUY. THE. TICKET. and get knocked off your feet for an explosive night of high octane that can’t be rivaled in country music.