MAY 3rd, 2023
AXEL RUDI PELL + GUESTS

Review/ Photo Gallery By: Polina Kulikovskikh
http://www.metaltitans.com/concertpics/axel-rudi-pell/

Axel Rudi Pell is a German heavy metal band named after its founder and lead guitarist, Axel Rudi Pell. Formed in 1989, the band has become one of the most prominent and enduring acts in the European metal scene. I had the pleasure of witnessing their outstandingly energetic show in Berlin as part of their 2023 tour.

A highlight of the tour was the special guest appearance of the international metal project Amalgama. Known for their powerful mix of heavy riffs, remarkable vocals, and catchy melodies, Amalgama has released several studio albums and numerous singles. Over their career, they have performed more than 450 concerts in different countries and shared the stage with legendary bands such as Sonata Arctica, Judas Priest, Blind Guardian, and more.

While Amalgama's lineup varies from tour to tour, on this occasion, they featured Attila Vörös on guitar (known for his work with bands like Nevermore, Sanctuary, Satyricon, and Leander Rising) and Tadeusz Rieckmann (TYR, Rivers Ablaze) on drums. It was my first time seeing Amalgama live, and I must admit, I was quite impressed, as were many people in the audience. Their set left the crowd cheerful and ready for Axel Rudi Pell and his band.

Axel Rudi Pell's music is rooted in traditional heavy metal, featuring melodic guitar-driven compositions. Their sound incorporates elements of classic rock and hard rock, characterized by catchy hooks, powerful vocals, and soaring guitar solos. Axel Rudi Pell, the band's namesake, remains the driving force and primary songwriter. While the lineup has evolved over the years, notable members have included vocalists Johnny Gioeli and Jeff Scott Soto, keyboardists Ferdy Doernberg and Julie Greaux, bassists Volker Krawczak and Jörg Deisinger, and drummers Mike Terrana and Bobby Rondinelli.

With a consistent output of melodic metal, Axel Rudi Pell has released numerous albums throughout their career. Some notable ones include "Wild Obsession" (1989), "Oceans of Time" (1998), "Circle of the Oath" (2012), "Knights Call" (2018), and "Sign of the Times" (2020). While their Spotify hits may give the impression of music for a calmer crowd, it would be wrong to assume that. Axel Rudi Pell is an incredible live band renowned for their dynamic shows, showcasing their musicianship and energetic stage presence. Apart from the amazing guitar solos, the immense talent and energy of vocalist Johnny Gioeli contribute to their unforgettable performances. It truly was a night to remember!

Axel Rudi Pell setlist:
Survive
Fool Fool
Strong as a Rock (incl. Extended Guitar Solo)
Oceans of Time
Hallelujah (Leonard Cohen cover)
Voodoo Nights
Mystica
Drum Solo
Mystica
(Reprise)
No Compromise
Keyboard Solo
The Line
Lost XXIII
The Masquerade Ball / Casbah

Encore:
Tear Down the Walls
Rock the Nation