November didn’t just bring an overwhelming number of shows—it also delivered the perfect soundtrack for the darker, rain-soaked days in Helsinki on November 12th, 2025. Alternative metal outfit KLOGR, progressive metal masters EVERGREY, and melancholic metal heavyweights KATATONIA joined forces at Kulttuuritalo for an evening that felt tailor-made for autumn.
KLOGR were the wildcard of the night, being the only band we weren’t previously familiar with. After giving their latest material a chance beforehand, expectations were cautiously optimistic—and they were more than met. While their sound differs quite a bit from EVERGREY and KATATONIA, their blend of alternative and progressive elements hit the right spot, and they clearly know how to command a stage.
Swedish progressive metal outfit EVERGREY are always a pleasure to see live, and they pair remarkably well with KATATONIA. The band recently released the new single “Oxygen!,” and thankfully it made its way into the setlist, fitting seamlessly alongside highlights from their latest album, including “Falling From the Sun.” Despite the often heavy and introspective nature of their music, EVERGREY deliver an energetic and engaging performance.
A particular highlight was drummer Simen Sandnes, who spent part of the set playing while standing—easily one of the most unique drumming styles we’ve ever witnessed. His kit is also positioned in a way that allows the audience to clearly see what he’s doing, adding another layer of interest to the performance. Unfortunately, as is often the case for a non-headlining act, their set felt a little too short—ten more minutes certainly wouldn’t have hurt.
The evening’s main event, KATATONIA, took the stage next. With their recently released album “Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State,” expectations were high. Having already seen them earlier in the summer at Graspop Metal Meeting, it was interesting to experience how their show translates into a full headlining set—especially since the last time we caught them on their own tour was back in 2018 at The Circus.
Production-wise, the band has clearly stepped things up with ego risers and very beautiful atmospheric lighting, even if musically they remain firmly rooted in their more progressive era, with little room left for their older Gothic material. While classics like “Help Me Disappear” and “Teargas” are dearly missed, there’s no denying that the newer material sounds absolutely killer live—and ultimately, what we’re getting now is still very much worth embracing.
Klogr
Evergrey
Katatonia
Photos by Laureline Tilkin
