On August 26, 2003, Avenged Sevenfold released their sophomore album, Waking the Fallen, an anthemic set of melodic metalcore with a gothic undercurrent that offered a more refined take on the sound they first showcased on their 2001 debut, Sounding the Seventh Trumpet. With a bit more classic heavy metal influence and a dynamic dual-guitar attack from Synyster Gates and Zacky Vengeance, it saw the band pushing their abilities even further and expanding their audience. As of 2021, the album has sold more than a million copies.
Shortly before the album hit shelves, the band made an appearance at the third edition of Furnace Fest, which was being held annually at Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham, Alabama. One of the highlights from their set is Waking the Fallen's "Unholy Confessions," which they debuted live that year and which has since become their most performed song live.
There's a good reason for that — it's a ripper. Even though the band didn't have the benefit of seasoning it on the road for several years, this early performance explodes with energy and razor sharp riffs.
Watch it go down above via YouTube.
