Walking towards the iconic Electric Ballroom, the queue outside is already filled with metal fans waiting for the doors to open. When I finally come inside, there are few people claiming their spots by the barricade, but most are just picking their merchandise or deciding what drink they should get at the bar.
After half an hour the lights dim down and the crowd cheers a bit, welcoming the first opener DESERT STORM onto the stage for their short, but punchy set. Putting on a show definitely isn’t an issue for them, as they have some good guitar work and the vocalist Matt Ryan can sing and scream without a single issue, however the crowd is tough to break easily tonight, and apart from few cheers here and there, sadly there wasn’t a lot going on below the stage.
The atmosphere on the floor stays relaxed, as URNE are swiftly taking over the stage. This London-based three piece comes in with heavy-themed lyrics and greatly executed solos. Vocalist Joe Nally nails down the screams with perfection, while also using his amazing clear vocals in some of the tracks. The band showed their gratitude for the opportunity to tour with KVELERTAK and talked about the struggles to get where they are now, and also hinted on their upcoming album. They absolutely smashed their set and definitely got the fans ready for what was about to come.
As the floor was getting busier and it was harder to move around, the fans were getting more impatient and happy to finally see their favourites. The lights suddenly go down and the intro track starts playing, leaving everyone speechless for a second. Then a massive cheer bursts through the crowd as the members of KVELERTAK began coming on the stage. As the intro drifts into the first track, ‘Krøterveg Te Helvete’, a big moshpit opens up close to the stage, welcoming the band back in London with a pompous style. After the grand start of what’s about to become one of the most memorable concerts, the band continues to play their hits, with the frontman Ivar Nikolaisen diving into the crowd multiple times with no hesitation.
Continuing with their set, the crowd saw a meticulously picked setlist of their favourites, showcasing the band’s craftsmanship. In between the well executed crowd interactions and amazing riffs, the band gives few thankful speeches. When they mention their last concert in London was ‘seven prime ministers ago’, the crowd bursts in laughter.
KVELERTAK jumped through their set like nothing and by the time they played their hit and second to last song ‘Mjød’, it was obvious the night is getting close to the end. With the last song ‘Bråtebrann’ playing, everyone in the crowd and the band put all the energy they had left to make the moment as precious as possible, with the crowd singing the lyrics more than before, knowing it is the last time for a while. Basking in the spotlight and cheered up with a massive applause, the band finally left the stage, leaving behind only the memories of the night and their instruments.
The concert truly was a one-of-a-kind experience, with a great choice of support bands. Seeing a well known band interacting with their fans throughout the whole evening feels more intimate, even in a bigger venue like the Electric Ballroom, and truly makes the fans long for more. The staging was very simple, with a big banner in the background listing the band’s name, yet complimented by the lightning, that was very mesmerising, especially from the back of the venue. KVELERTAK definitely know how to put on a good performance and are breath-taking to see live.
Words: Katerina Stepanikova
Photos: Libby Percival
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