ZETRA
ZETRA, the dynamic two-piece band, started the night on a high note with their captivating blend of haunting melodies and atmospheric soundscapes. Despite their minimalistic setup, the band exuded a presence far larger than their numbers would suggest. Positioned atop podiums, they not only gave the crowd a clear view of their performance but also created a sense of mystique and grandeur that complemented their music. This attention to detail, paired with their undeniable chemistry, made their set feel deeply personal and yet universal—a performance that resonated with both newcomers and long-time fans alike.
What stood out most about ZETRA was their connection to the audience. Beyond the music, their genuine humility and warmth shone through in every interaction. It’s rare to find a band so effortlessly likable, both as performers and as people. Their set had an almost dreamlike quality, with shimmering riffs and ethereal vocals weaving an immersive soundscape. ZETRA may be a small band in size, but their performance made it abundantly clear that their potential is limitless. They proved that sometimes, all you need to create magic is authenticity, talent, and a well-executed vision.
GAEREA
For many in the audience, GAEREA’s performance was a long time coming. After a snowstorm forced them to cancel a previous gig, expectations were high—and they didn’t disappoint. Emerging onto the stage in their signature masks, the band wasted no time in plunging the crowd into a whirlwind of intense energy and raw emotion. From the first note, GAEREA unleashed an unrelenting barrage of sound, their music a perfect balance of brutality and intricate artistry. The band’s anonymity, enforced by their masked personas, only added to the mystique, shifting the focus entirely onto their performance and creating an atmosphere charged with anticipation.
The pit quickly became a vortex of chaotic energy, with fans feeding off the band’s relentless intensity. Their ability to command the crowd was mesmerizing, transforming the room into a seething mass of movement and emotion. As someone in the thick of the action, I found myself constantly on the move, not just to keep up with the crowd but also to keep up with the music’s unyielding pace. It was exhilarating and exhausting in equal measure—a manifestation of GAEREA’s ability to blur the line between the performers and the audience.
Their set wasn’t just music; it was an experience, one that transported the audience to a darker, more visceral plane. Every riff, every growl, every crashing drumbeat felt purposeful, like a primal scream that resonated deeply with everyone present. By the end of their set, the room was buzzing with adrenaline and awe. GAEREA delivered on every promise and proved that their reputation as one of the most intense live acts in the scene is well-earned.
ZEAL & ARDOR
Zeal & Ardor’s set was not just a performance—it was an event. The anticipation leading up to their appearance was palpable, and when they finally took the stage, it was as if the entire room collectively exhaled in relief. This was a band that has built its reputation on its unique blend of black metal, blues, and spirituals, and live, the result was nothing short of transcendental. From the opening strains of Wake of a Nation, it was clear that this performance would be one to remember.
The crowd, already primed by the earlier acts, erupted into applause and cheers as Zeal & Ardor launched into their set. Songs like Ship on Fire and Erase had the audience singing along, their voices blending with Manuel Gagneux’s hauntingly powerful vocals. The band’s ability to seamlessly switch between blistering intensity and soulful, almost meditative moments kept the audience enthralled. Tracks like Gravedigger’s Chant and Blood in the River showcased this duality perfectly, pulling the crowd into a collective experience that felt both deeply personal and universally resonant.
One of the standout aspects of the performance was the lighting. The stage was bathed in shifting hues that perfectly complemented the music’s mood, creating a visual feast that elevated the experience to another level. As someone capturing the event, it was a dream come true—the interplay of light and shadow made for striking photographs that encapsulated the energy and emotion of the night. Songs like Golden Liar and Devil is Fine were especially breathtaking, their slower tempos allowing the lighting to take center stage, enhancing the music’s impact.
Zeal & Ardor’s setlist was a journey through their discography, with each track serving as a milestone in a carefully crafted narrative. Highlights included Tuskegee, with its hauntingly beautiful melodies, and Feed the Machine, which closed the set with a thunderous finale that left the room buzzing. The sheer range of their music, from the spiritual chants of Gravedigger’s Chant to the ferocious energy of Death to the Holy, showcased the band’s versatility and mastery of their craft.
What made this performance truly unforgettable, however, was the connection between the band and the audience. The crowd sang along, cheered, and swayed in unison, creating a sense of unity that is all too rare in live music. It was clear that this was more than just a concert for many—it was a communal experience, a celebration of music’s ability to bring people together. For me, finally seeing Zeal & Ardor live and capturing their performance was a deeply satisfying moment, one that I’ll carry with me for years to come. Their ability to blend genres, evoke powerful emotions, and captivate an audience is unparalleled, making them one of the most compelling live acts I’ve ever had the pleasure of witnessing.
Overall
This night was a celebration of the diversity and power of live music. ZETRA offered an intimate and heartfelt opening, GAEREA brought unparalleled intensity and energy, and Zeal & Ardor delivered a profound and unforgettable experience. Each band brought something unique to the table, creating a well-rounded and exhilarating evening that will be remembered long after the final note faded. Whether you were there for the atmosphere, the pit, or the photography, this show had something for everyone—a showcase of the incredible talent on display.
If summoning the devil sounds this good, sign me up for the next ritual—but only if Manuel is leading it. 10/10 would sell my soul again for another show like this.
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