On November 2nd, 2024, we had the opportunity to experience another juggernaut of a tour at Huxley’s Neue Welt in Berlin. BARONESS, GRAVEYARD, and PALLBEARER passed through a few German cities during their European Fall tour.
The evening began with the Arkansas-based quartet PALLBEARER, whose 5th full-length album, “Mind Burns Alive,” was released this past May via Nuclear Blast Records. Known for their blend of melody and crushing heaviness, we were eager to hear how the more balanced tone of their latest release translated live.
Due to the size of the venue and the fact that attendees were arriving past their stage time, we were under the impression that the sound was a bit suffering at the beginning of their set, however, it continued to fill consistently as the first song unfolded. While somewhat quiet at the beginning, the crowd was not inexpressive. It was a nice view from the photo pit, to gaze back at the crowd, and watch them move energetically to the rhythm of PALLBEARER’s music.
Their newer material added fresh nuances to their signature sound. “Signals” serves in this case as the perfect example of this evolution. Opening with a melancholic tone that weighs heavily on the listener, around the 3-minute mark, all the heavier emotions are turned into a glimpse of hope, reminding us that no matter how deep we can fall, “the search to find something to hold” should never be given up, as the lyrics wisely state. Crowned with a moving guitar solo that reinforces that statement, making it one of their most compelling pieces to date.
PALLBEARER closed their set with “Worlds Apart” from their second album, “Foundations of Burden“—a record that holds a special place in my heart as my gateway into their music. Heavier in nature yet deeply uplifting, the track creates a reflective atmosphere. It felt like a trip back in time—a reminder of how life, as well as the band’s sound, has evolved over the past decade since the album’s release. Their music reinforces the belief: that as long as artists venture into complex creative journeys, the world feels a little brighter.
BARONESS took the stage next, greeted by a well-packed Huxley’s Neue Welt. They opened with “Last Word,” a track from their 2023 album, “STONE,” celebrated by an enthusiastic crowd. This energy level was kept throughout the entire evening, as BARONESS has a unique ability to keep a crowd going.
Their raw presence and unfiltered sound carry a purity that immediately connects with audiences. It’s an experience that remains long after the performance ends, making it almost bittersweet to return to their studio albums in the days that follow. We blame the passionate performance of each band member for spoiling us with their live performance.
Midway through their set, came the superhit “Shock Me.” The opening synthesizer continued as the crowd awaited the moment in which the opening riff paired with the tribal drumming would hit. This moment compelled the crowd to sing and headbang along from start to finish. It was one of the night’s most emotive moments, and this perfectly showcases the power of BARONESS’ music.
They closed with a classic “Take My Bones Away,” a track that has become a cornerstone of their live shows. The audience gave their loudest to this particular song, solidifying BARONESS’ status as a force of nature that leaves everything in its wake.
Finally, the Swedish quintet GRAVEYARD took the stage, marking the end of an unforgettable evening. After years of missing opportunities to see them live, our anticipation was high—and the crowd’s energy showcased the same. Greeted with a long wave of applause, GRAVEYARD immediately demonstrated why they keep such a strong presence in the heavier music scene.
While the sound took some adjustment during their first songs, it soon sharpened, allowing GRAVEYARD’s signature sound that goes far beyond a classic rock homage but cements itself as a pillar with their unique sound. Their setlist spanned their entire career, out of their latest full-length effort, “Peace,” the track “Cold Love” paired with classics like “Hisingen Blues” standing out. To close the night, they delivered their stellar track, “The Siren.” The soaring chorus echoed through the hall as the audience sang in unison, a perfect ending to an emotionally charged evening.
This tour offered a nicely nuanced combination of raw, emotional elements that felt like a rollercoaster. Here’s to hoping next year brings more fulfilling experiences like this one.
Text and Photos by Michelle R.
