Challenge

Sum 41 wanted their grand finale to have the impact and intimacy worthy of their longstanding and loyal fans, many of whom hopped flights to take in multiple shows on their farewell tour. The chosen PA needed to represent the musicality of the band with great fidelity and clarity so the energy on stage was felt in every European arena—and with even coverage to match. The production team looked for an audio system that would also minimize truck pack and fly easily night after night on a months-long tour.

Solution

AudioRent Clair, a Clair Global brand, deployed a PA that extensively used CO12 as the mains, on the sides, and for one special show in France, as rear hangs. Their low end extension allowed the mix to push the subs less, though a dozen flown CP218 II+ and another twelve on the ground provided plenty of lift. The CO10 across the front of the stage not only provided front fill, it also provided a “much fuller, truer sound” for the guitar and bass, according to FOH Engineer Bryan Campbell. The PA fit entirely into a single truck across the European run. “It was compact and quick to get up, and it packed a punch,” said PM Ivan Copelan.

Result

The final European dates in Sum 41’s career were “emotional,” “electric,” and “magical,” according to Campbell, particularly the culminating sold-out performance in Nanterre, France, at Paris La Défense Arena—Europe’s largest indoor venue, which housed more than 40,000 spectators. The extensive high end from the Cohesion PA translated well to a detailed, rich mix, and the system’s seamless consistency, especially in the low end, was evident, even in the upper levels of arenas.