KNOXVILLE, TN – "Shinedown is simply one of the best rock bands in the world, period." That's from Michael T. Strickland, chairman of Bandit Lites – who was first won over by an acoustic version of "Simple Man" by Shinedown that he heard in 2003.
It was also before Strickland knew that Brent Smith, lead singer of the Jacksonville-based band, grew up in Strickland's hometown of Knoxville, TN.
Before long, Bandit Lites was providing the band with lighting gear and LD Scott Allee, and Bandit and Allee continued to help craft Shinedown's looks with 2010's Carnival of Madness tour, with additional support from Bandit's business development manager Brent Barrett.
Along with Shinedown, Carnival of Madness featured Sevendust, Chevelle, Puddle of Mudd and 10 Years.
The touring rig included GRN Batten 3-54s, Martin MAC 2000 Washes, Vari*Lite VL300 Spots, Martin Atomic Strobes, Tyler Green Truss and Thomas Four Lights, all controlled by two grandMA Consoles.
Tour manager Doug Nightwine, production manager Colin West and security pro Brain "Jake" Lawson also joined the tour as it traveled the U.S.
For more information, please visit www.banditlites.com.
