Limp Bizkit to make long-awaited Middle East debut in Abu Dhabi
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The National
a day ago
- The National
Limp Bizkit review: Abu Dhabi crowd turns Etihad Arena into one big moshpit
When Fred Durst reintroduced himself in the 2021 video for Dad Vibes, it was as a greying, sunglass-wearing, tracksuit-clad figure shuffling across the screen. The dancing was bad, the smile knowing and the message unmistakable – this was the same Fred Durst who had always mixed aggression with obvious comedy, finally free to be explicit about the joke. The truth is, Limp Bizkit never really changed. The band that wrote Nookie and covered George Michael 's Faith was always straddling the line between heavy and silly, mixing brutal riffs with pop hooks. What confused audiences in the late 1990s was their refusal to pick a side – were they serious metal or elaborate parody? During their maiden Middle East appearance at Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena, we realised the band was fully committed to embracing the absurdity and that it was always part of the point. The joke wasn't on Limp Bizkit – it was built into them from the beginning, from the quirky song and album titles to Durst's range from laconic croon to dramatic and overly anxious rapping style. The evidence was everywhere from the opening triple-hit of Hot Dog, Break Stuff and My Generation, which sparked what may have been a first for Etihad Arena – a genuine attempt at a mosh pit. Hundreds of fans bounced and collided as the riffs crashed in, singing along to lyrics that were simultaneously furious and ridiculous. Red caps dotted the floor, vintage band shirts flashed under the lights, and the atmosphere was that of a long-delayed reunion with a band that no one needed to defend anymore. Durst himself looked liberated. Gone was the obnoxious and maybe overly defensive swagger of the early 2000s, when he seemed caught between wanting to be taken seriously and knowing his material was inherently silly. In his place was a 54-year-old in a pink cap and baseball jacket, playing the part of the "uncool dad" with obvious delight. Even in the most frenetic moments, he moved with an easy glide, finally able to let the songs speak for themselves – heavy when they needed to be heavy, absurd when they needed to be absurd. This shift reflects something larger than one band's career trajectory. Nu metal's original problem wasn't its lack of seriousness – it was the audience's, or perhaps even more pressingly, the industry's inability to process music that could be both crushing and comical. Bands such as Korn and System of a Down have always mixed genuine darkness with obvious humour, but for years, listeners felt forced to choose between taking them seriously or dismissing them as jokes. Tuesday's crowd – many in band shirts and red caps – showed they were in on the trick along. Wes Borland's jagged, inventive riffs is meant to co-exist with Durst rapping about fitting juvenile phrases into songs. They could appreciate the genuine craftsmanship – the tight rhythm section, DJ Lethal's textural contributions, the band's mastery of tension-and-release dynamics – without needing the lyrics to match the musical intensity. The songs themselves prove this point. Nookie remains a perfect pop song disguised as metal aggression. Break Stuff is therapeutic cartoon violence set to genuinely crushing riffs. Faith turns George Michael's slick pop-soul into nu metal without losing either the original's charm or the cover's heaviness. These weren't confused attempts at crossover – they were deliberate exercises in genre-blending that have become standard in pop music today. More importantly, this understanding has freed both band and audience to focus on what actually matters – the connection, the energy and the kind of release that comes from seeing your band growing up well and growing with them together.
What's On
2 days ago
- What's On
Summer in Abu Dhabi means epic events around every corner
Summer months does not mean the capital slows down. Instead, Abu Dhabi buzzes with amazing entertainment and experiences for everyone to enjoy. Whatever your interests, the city has something for the whole family. With venues across Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and the Corniche all just a short drive apart, you can fit more fun into every day. Here's what's happening across the city from now until the end of September: A must for music lovers The American nu-metal legends are bringing the noise for one night only. Get ready to break stuff, scream your lungs out, and relive the glory days as Limp Bizkit takes over. Location: Etihad Arena Date: August 12 Image: Supplied Double the magic for movie lovers Harry Potter: The Exhibition Step into the wizarding world like never before. The exhibition lets you walk through iconic movie moments, interact with magical settings, and dive into behind the scenes secrets. Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat Date: Now until September 21 Harry Potter Film Concert Series Every melodious note and tune from these movies will be played by the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, really bringing the magic of these movies to life. Location: Etihad Arena Date: September 6 and 7 Image: Supplied Fun for the whole family Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Rev up for adrenaline pumping action as giant trucks soar, smash and race in this high-octane spectacle. From glow in the dark stunts to roaring engines, this is pure edge of your seat family fun. Location: Etihad Arena Date: September 27 Paw Patrol Live: The Great Pirate Adventure The pups are on a roll and ready to set sail. This action-packed stage show brings the PAW Patrol crew to life, complete with catchy songs, high-energy dancing and a mission to rescue Cap'n Turbot. Ideal for younger families. Location: Etihad Arena Date: August 29 to 31 Image: Supplied Adrenaline for sports fans Combat sports fans, mark your calendars. An explosive fight night will take over Abu Dhabi with top MMA fighters from around the world stepping into the octagon. Expect fierce competition and an electric atmosphere. Location: Al Ain, ADNEC Date: September 10 But wait, there's more to explore Abu Dhabi isn't just about events. It's a destination that offers culture, adventure and relaxation all just a short drive away. Dive into culture Wander through the stunning Louvre Abu Dhabi, immerse yourself in the cutting-edge digital art of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, and step back in time at Qasr Al Hosn, the city's oldest standing structure. Get adventurous Paddle through serene mangrove forests, or chase waves at Surf Abu Dhabi, home to the world's highest man-made wave, designed for all levels, from first-timers to pros. Relax your way Whether you're staying on Saadiyat's pristine beaches, catching a sunset at the Corniche, or hitting the malls and restaurants on Yas Island, you can enjoy Abu Dhabi at your own pace. Abu Dhabi is your all in one family holiday that practically plans itself. Tickets: book your tickets at @abudhabievents @visitabudhabi Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
3 days ago
- What's On
13 places to eat before (or after) the Limp Bizkit performance at Etihad Arena
Limp Bizkit has been 'rocking the set' for the past three decades, and they will be performing in Abu Dhabi for the first time ever this year on August 12 at the Etihad Arena. If you've already got your tickets booked, you're Ready to Go, but eat at one of these restaurants close to the venue beforehand to keep your energy levels high for the whole performance. Here are 13 places to eat before the Limp Bizkit performance at Etihad Arena Asia Asia Trendy Asiatic decor, a great menu that rolls out all the Asian specialities you came for, and a gorgeous view of the Yas Bay pier are all that you need before you jump, headbang and dance along to Limp Bizkit. Location: Asia Asia, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Mon to Thurs 5pm to 1am, Fri 12pm to 1am, Sat 2pm to 1am Contact: (02) 235 8663 Barbossa Want to experience vibrant beats before the battle? Barbossa is the place to be. Known for its Mexican and Latin American flavours and a lively atmosphere, this restaurant combines authentic flavours with brilliant beats. PS: there are some cool deals to enjoy here, but make plans to visit another time to enjoy them to avoid missing even a second of the performance. Location: Barbossa, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Sun to Wed 12pm to 1am, Thurs and Fri 12pm to 3am, Sat 1pm to 3am Contact: (050) 185 8068 @barbossa_auh Bua Thai Café Want to keep it casual, yet flavourful? Bua Thai Café brings a cosy slice of Bangkok to Yas Bay, with comforting Thai classics. Pick from fragrant green curry to punchy papaya salad and creamy Thai iced teas. Location: Bua Thai Café by Desert Lotus, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 11pm, Fri and Sat 12pm to 12am Contact: ( 02) 575 3158 @buathaicafe Bushra by Buddha-Bar Want a dash of drama with your meal? Bushra by Buddha-Bar serves it up in a glamorous, lounge-style setting. Tuck into bold Levantine flavours such as shanklish with avocado purée, succulent kebabs, grilled octopus, and more. If you want to check it out after the concert, head on over, as it's open until 2am. Location: Bushra by Buddha-Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: daily 1pm to 2am Contact: (050) 601 1195 @bushra_abudhabi Daikan Izakaya Want your meal to pack a flavourful punch? Daikan Izakaya at Yas Bay is the perfect pit stop. It serves up bold Japanese street food in a cool, industrial-style setting. Think steaming bowls of ramen, crispy gyoza, and signature bao buns. Slurp. Location: Daikan Izakaya, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times:Sun to Thurs 12pm to 12am. Fri and Sat 12pm to 1am Contact: (058) 124 1529 @daikanizakaya_ae EL&N London Don't want to miss a second of the Limp Bizkit performance at Etihad Arena? Consider EL&N London. It is probably one of the shiniest restaurants near Etihad Arena, so you can't miss it. It's great if what you're after is a quick bite with a spot of coffee before the music begins. Plus, you're so close you can see the crowds start to thin as they enter the arena, so you don't have to wait in line. And you're sure to walk away with some pretty Instagrammable photos. Location: EL&N Cafe, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: daily 12am to 12pm Contact: (02) 883 9395 Hanar At Hanar, you'll be spoiled for choice with a menu of Mesopotamian flavours. If this is your choice of restaurant for the night, visit before the concert, as Hanar closes its doors by 11pm. Location: Hanar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Mon to Fri 5pm to 11pm, Sat 2pm to 11pm and Sun 12pm to 11pm Contact: (02) 675 1641 @hanar_restaurant Hunter & Barrel Yas Bay Love a good steakhouse? Book a table at Australian steakhouse joint Hunter and Barrel, and sink your teeth into a carnivorous feast. Serious comfort food is on the menu here, and it comes in the form of sticky, smoky chicken wings, lightly battered prawns, spicy calamari, and a three-cheese dip with fresh-baked pita bread for dunking. As for the steaks, pick from fillet, rump, striploin, or rib-eye. The sharing steaks start from Dhs590, which is a great option to share with a friend. They even do fire-grilled burgers and vegetarian mains. Location: Hunter & Barrel, The Pier, Yas Bay Waterfront Times: daily 11am to 1am Contact: (02) 886 8299 @hunterandbarreluae McCafferty's Everyone loves McCafferty's, and if you want a bar that won't disappoint, make your way to Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island. You will be able to sip on your favourite hops, grapes and cocktails at unbeatable prices. Pair it with some bar bites to ensure you don't get hungry during the performance. Location: McCafferty's, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Times: daily, 9am to 8pm Contact: (058) 598 3623 @mccaffertysyas NURI Grill & Bar NURI Grill & Bar picked up the What's On award for Favourite Fine Dining Asian Restaurant this year. The sleek Korean steakhouse is one of Yas Bay's finest, with an enjoyable restaurant and bar experience. Location: NURI Grill & Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 12am, Fri and Sat 12pm to 1am Contact: (054) 211 5151 @nurigrillbar Paradiso is a partnership between celebrated French chef Pierre Gagnaire and Nicole Rubi of La Petite Maison in Cannes. Mediterranean is the cuisine to savour here, so expect dishes like snails and roast poussin to fritto misto, pizza, and assorted pasta. Don't miss your photo op with the cute Vespa out front. Location: Paradiso, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 11pm, Fri and Sat 12pm to 1am Contact: ( 050) 437 2869 @paradisoabudhabi The Trilogy by Buddha-Bar has a rooftop lounge offering sweeping views of Yas Bay. It's a neat spot to tuck into a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavors. And it's presented in a tapas-style format, so you won't be too stuffed as you jump the night away. There's also an impressive cocktail selection, too. If you want to grab a bite or a drink post the concert, this is a good option, too. Location: Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Sun to Thurs 5pm to 2am, Fri and Sat 5pm to 3am Contact: (050) 601 1194 @siddhartalounge_abudhabi The Lighthouse Restaurant and Bar This exciting Mediterranean restaurant offers up quaint and relaxing vibes if that's what you're seeking are flatbreads and seafood, standout signature cocktails, and waterfront views. Location: The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Sun to Thurs 8am to 12am, Fri and Sat 8am to 1am Contact: (02) 236 7831 @thelighthouse_abudhabi Images: Instagram
