Monday Night’s Theatrical Metal Spectacle Was Nothing Short of Legendary
This past Monday, fans of heavy metal descended into a venue transformed into a cathedral of sound, theatrics, and raw energy. The lineup featured the soaring falsettos and haunting stories of King Diamond, the unrelenting thrash of Over Kill, and the unbridled energy of Night Demon. From start to finish, the night delivered on every promise, leaving fans exhilarated and wanting more.
Night Demon: A Force to be Reckoned With
Night Demon kicked off the night with an explosive set that showcased why they’ve become such a standout in the modern heavy metal scene. Their set, including tracks like “Outsider” and “Screams in the Night,” was a showcase of old-school heavy metal energy fused with relentless motion. Frontman Jarvis Leatherby and guitarist Armand John Anthony dominated the stage, running, jumping, and fully engaging the crowd. For me, as a photographer, they made me earn every shot—I was chasing them from one side of the stage to the other in a blur of adrenaline.
But it wasn’t just their energy that impressed. About halfway through the set, the band faced some cable issues near Wilson’s drum kit—a technical hiccup that for many bands would have brought things to a halt. Not for Night Demon. Their team’s professionalism shone as the on-stage tech expertly handled the issue without drawing attention. The band didn’t miss a beat, continuing their electrifying set as though nothing had happened. It was a testament to their professionalism and the seamless coordination of their crew.
Tracks like “Dawn Rider” and “The Chalice” were standout moments, bringing the audience into their world of metal mythos. By the time they closed with “Night Demon,” the crowd was fully onboard, chanting and banging their heads in unison. Night Demon wasn’t just an opening act; they were a force, proving they belonged on a stage with legends.
*On a side note, I had the fortune of running into the very rad Jarvis himself by their merch table. We chatted about a bunch of stuff – everything from poutine to photography. In chatting with him he told me about an awesome personal project he’s got in the works starting 2025. Excited for that! Go listen to these guys!
Over Kill: Thrash Metal Excellence
Following Night Demon’s dynamic performance, Over Kill took the stage and immediately shifted gears with their unrelenting brand of thrash. With decades of experience under their belts, Overkill reminded the crowd why they remain one of thrash metal’s most enduring acts. Tracks brimming with aggression and precision flowed seamlessly, demonstrating the mastery that comes from a lifetime of crafting heavy music.
While their setlist leaned heavily on fan favorites, there were a few surprises sprinkled in, making their set fresh even for longtime devotees. The crowd responded in kind, forming mosh pits and raising their horns to the air. Over Kill’s energy and stage presence served as the perfect bridge between Night Demon’s raw dynamism and King Diamond’s theatrical grandeur.
King Diamond: A Gothic Metal Opera Come to Life
By the time King Diamond’s set began, the anticipation in the venue was electric. As the lights dimmed and the chilling intro of “Funeral” began, it was clear the audience was about to experience something far more than just a concert—it was a full-fledged theatrical production. The gothic stage design, intricate props, and moody lighting transformed the venue into an eerie, immersive world that brought King Diamond’s tales of horror to life.
Launching into “Arrival” and “A Mansion in Darkness,” King Diamond and his band delivered with precision and flair. King’s iconic falsetto was as piercing and powerful as ever, defying age and expectation. His ability to weave vivid, chilling narratives through both song and performance was truly mesmerizing.
Each song in the setlist felt like its own chapter, from the sinister “Voodoo” to the haunting beauty of “Sleepless Nights.” Fan favorites like “Welcome Home” were punctuated by theatrical moments—Grandma’s appearance during the song brought both cheers and laughter, adding a darkly playful edge to the performance.
The band itself was a well-oiled machine, perfectly supporting the theatrical narrative. Guitarists Andy LaRocque and Mike Wead traded searing solos and harmonized passages effortlessly, while bassist Pontus Egberg and drummer Matt Thompson provided a thunderous foundation. Tracks like “Masquerade of Madness” and “Burn” highlighted their musical prowess, blending complex arrangements with raw power.
The encore, featuring the iconic “Abigail,” was the perfect culmination of the night. The band delivered this gothic masterpiece with such fervor and precision that it felt almost sacred. It was a triumphant finale to an evening of storytelling and showmanship at its absolute finest.
Final Thoughts
Monday night wasn’t just a concert; it was a journey through the spectrum of metal. Night Demon showed the hunger and energy of the genre’s next generation, Over Kill demonstrated the power of thrash in its prime, and King Diamond delivered a masterclass in the art of blending music with theater.
For fans, this lineup offered something truly special—an evening that celebrated the diversity and spirit of heavy metal while reminding everyone why these acts have earned their places in the metal pantheon.
Rating: 666/10—A Night for the Ages
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