Psychedelic prog outfit ENSLAVED are currently on a 16-date European run in support of their latest album, “Heimdal,” taking the band across 10 different countries. The band’s support on the road is none other than British post-hardcore quartet SVALBARD and US-based metal act WAYFARER. On March 23rd, 2024, the tour stopped at Hole44 in Berlin.
WAYFARER gave a very good account of themselves, putting on a solid, enjoyable set. Their Americana-infused black metal came to life with three-dimensional clarity, and both their sound and presence did the music justice. Concentrating on American Gothic, their superlative latest record, they ended with “False Constellation,” delivering a hideously enjoyable experience. The venue was pretty full, and the crowd enjoyed every minute.
SVALBARD burst into life with energetic enthusiasm. Their post-hardcore crust-powered blackgaze-edged hybrid style was immediately recognizable and engaging. The sound could have been better; at times, the band’s ethereal melodies were hard to discern. There were a lot of smiles on stage and off. Serena Cherry was waving her orange hair and wielding her guitar; SVALBARD clearly love what they do, and it’s infectious. Even though they were here supporting the mighty ENSLAVED, all of the songs hit the spot, but the cherries on the top were “To Wilt Beneath the Weight” and “Click Bait,” closing with “Eternal Spirits” and its huge chunky riff.
ENSLAVED were next. Unfortunately, Ivar Bjørnson had to go home because of an emergency, and the set was played without his guitar and energy. Nevertheless, the opener was “Kingdom,” and all the band members were so enthusiastic it was remarkable. Grutle Kjellson‘s personality was radiant as he introduced “Homebound,” and the band’s progressive metal power was ably demonstrated. The fact that they’re accomplished professionals, it was so obvious they’re heavily into what they do. ENSLAVED then launched into the striking melodic start of “Forest Dweller,” and the crowd went insane, followed by “Sequence” and “Congelia” with a brutally relentless delivery. Their newer material really suited the live environment. Guitarist Arve Isdal was often coming to the edge of the stage with a rock-and-roll stance, lifting his guitar and arching his back, and since there was no security barrier, the ladies in the front row were a bit baffled by his pants being in their face. At this point, it was time for the older material. “Return to Yggdrasill” was great to hear; “The Dead Stare” was a powerhouse, and “Havenless” was anthemic, played with Matt Francis of SVALBARD. All three were taken from their strongest records, “Isa” and “Below the Lights.” The band disappeared offstage before the drummer Iver Sandøy returned for a drum solo. The rest of the band then reappeared to continue the evening with “Isa,” short but iconic. They closed their phenomenal set with the old-school black metal “Allfǫðr Oðinn,” with Shane McCarthy of WAYFARER on guitar. Besides the brilliant set and high-quality performances, Grutle‘s strong sense of humor was a gem of its own.
Wayfarer
SVALBARD
ENSLAVED
Photos by Alexandra Aim
