MAY 8th, 2023
AGONY & ECSTASY OVER EUROPE

Review/Photo Gallery By: Polina Kulikovskikh
http://www.metaltitans.com/concertpics/agony-ecstasy-over-europe-tour/

Watain has undeniably achieved legendary status as a live band, and for good reason. Their performances are nothing short of intense, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness them. Many bands in the genre struggle to match the raw energy and captivating stage presence that Watain effortlessly exudes. Frontman Erik Danielsson, in particular, showcases unwavering dedication and never compromises when it comes to delivering an unforgettable live performance.

Having experienced the band's incredible performance at the Inferno festival this April, I was instantly compelled to see them live again in the near future. Fortunately, the "Agony & Ecstasy over Europe" tour, featuring Concrete Winds and Bølzer, was about to commence, offering a wide range of locations. There were many options, I chose Vienna, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, as the setting for this highly anticipated event.

The evening began with an electrifying opening set by Concrete Winds, a Finnish death metal band known for their uncompromising and relentless approach to extreme music. Rising from the ashes of Vorum, who disbanded in 2018, Concrete Winds rapidly gained recognition within the underground metal scene. Their sonic assault, characterized by aggressive guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and guttural vocals, left an indelible mark on the audience. Chaotic and dissonant passages intertwined with fast and precise instrumentation showcased their technical proficiency. Drawing influences from various sub-genres of extreme metal, such as death metal, black metal, and grindcore, Concrete Winds pushed the boundaries of heaviness and intensity, delivering a setlist that seamlessly transitioned from one song to the next, leaving a profound impression on everyone in attendance.

Next on stage was Bølzer, a Swiss duo celebrated for their unique and powerful fusion of death and black metal, as well as other heavy music elements. Formed in 2008, Bølzer swiftly garnered attention in the underground metal scene. Their music emanates a raw and primal energy, combining vigorous guitar riffs, pounding drums, and haunting atmospheric elements. Delving into themes of ancient mythology, occultism, and existential introspection, Bølzer's thought-provoking and cryptic lyrics, delivered with commanding vocals, added an additional layer of depth and intrigue to their performance. Despite being a duo, their captivating live presence generated a massive and enveloping sound that captured the audience's attention, leaving an enduring impact on all who bore witness to their sonic onslaught. This night in Vienna was no exception — the crowd was enthralled by their intense energy and commanding stage presence.

Finally, the moment arrived for Watain to take the stage. Having not performed in Vienna since 2010, anticipation reached a fever pitch, attracting a large crowd of dedicated fans to Simm City, even on a Monday night. Each Watain show is a unique and immersive experience that transcends the realm of ordinary concerts. From the first note, the audience is transported to a world of darkness and mysticism, completely engrossed in the band's ability to evoke an intense atmosphere. The powerful and dynamic musical performance establishes a profound connection between the performers and their audience, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience.

Watain is renowned for their elaborate use of props and pyrotechnics, but each show is tailored to the location, making every performance distinct. While there was no fire during this particular show, the absence did not compromise the unique atmosphere created. The air was filled with the scent of ash and animal bones, intertwining with the music to immerse the audience even deeper into the realm of darkness and mysticism. The setlist encompassed songs from all their studio albums, reflecting the long and glorious history of Watain, delivering a truly impactful and unforgettable experience. Watain's live performance are highly recommended to anyone with an interest in black metal and the captivating culture that surrounds it.