On February 1st, 2025, we could take part in the second installment of TESSERACT’s War of Being Tour. They performed at the Logomo club together with two support bands, THE OMNIFIC and NOVELISTS.
At first, two bass players and a drummer entered the stage and started playing a song. Those unfamiliar with the band were waiting for some developments, for a vocalist of guitar players to enter, but no, that’s exactly what THE OMNIFIC’s unique setup is—two bass guitars, drums, and subtle digital enhancements. In under a decade, this Australian trio has released three EPs, two widely acclaimed LPs, and toured extensively. Tonight, they came to Turku to support their friends from TESSERACT. The band, despite their unconventional setup, delivers a performance worthy of arena stages. Drummer Jerome Lamatua leads the charge with his infectious enthusiasm and seemingly goofy personality, as he ran to the front of the stage and performed a few little happy dances here and there. The band’s set lasted for about 45 minutes and Turku’s crowd took such liking to the unconventional Aussies that they loudly demanded an encore.
Next, a massive neon sign was carried onto the stage, signifying that NOVELISTS were about to begin their performance. They started strong, delivering their signature tech-metalcore sound infused with hardcore energy, djenty riffs, super catchy choruses, and intricate guitar solos. Guitarists Florestan Durand and Pierre Danel shine from the start, weaving intricate riffs and solos, while Nico Delestrade’s bass rumbles with intensity and Amael Durand’s drumming drives the set with precision. The spotlight, however, belongs to the new vocalist Camille Contreras, who proves she’s the perfect fit for the band. She effortlessly takes on older tracks, making them her own with a mix of soaring cleans, gritty harsh vocals, and undeniable charisma.
Finally, TESSERACT took the stage with an understated, minimalist setup that featured a few vertical light bars and strategically placed light boxes, transforming the intimate venue into a visually immersive experience. The lighting created an atmospheric backdrop that perfectly complemented their musical style. Barefoot bassist Amos Williams, along with guitarists Acle Kahney and James Monteith, and drummer Jay Postones, formed a tight, cohesive unit, showing off their technical skill. The setlist spanned their entire discography, kicking off with two heavy, energetic tracks from their latest album that highlighted vocalist Dan Tompkins’ impressive range and the album’s darker edge. The back-to-back pairing of “The Smile” and “The Arrow,” sounded even more dynamic live than it did in a studio version. Later they played the crowd-favorite “King.”Tompkins effortlessly blended clean with somewhat distorted vocals, particularly on standout tracks like “Legion.” The band finished the set with “Concealing Fate, Part 1: Acceptance” and went off stage, leaving the crowd exhilarated and energized. Check our photo gallery here…
The Omnific
Novelists
TesseracT
Phobos by Magdalena Niemczura
