APRIL 13th 2014
KILL THE ELITE NORTH AMERICAN TOUR
Review by Metal Mom
Photos by Char Tupper
http://www.metaltitans.com/concertpics/kill-the-elite-north-america-tour/
Sunday, April 13, an excellent day to hit the road and head into Vancouver to check out Kill The Elite of North America Tour at the Rickshaw Theatre.
I am always there supporting Kataklysm when they hit town, they never disappoint, but was wondering who would play guitar in Jean-Francois Dagenais place, as his father had recently passed away while he was on tour. Deepest condolences to JF.
Doors opened at 7pm, and haven’t been to the Rickshaw in awhile, I was impressed with the improvements that were made. Much nicer. Looked like it was going to be a good turnout as well, people were actually mulling around, checking out the merch and just talking with others who were here to enjoy a night of metal.
First band to hit the stage was a band out of the Edmonton, Alberta, by the name of DEATH TOLL RISING. And they brought a little death, thrash and metal to the venue. Actually a really good opening group, fit right in to the high energy and motivated sets of this Sunday night. This band is new to me, but it brought some intense drumming, you can hear the technical part in the guitar, along with rhythm, and then put in some deep growls along with shrieks, and you have a powerhouse.
Next, I am going to say is probably one of my ultimate favourite bands that has come out of Vancouver, who you ask, ARCHSPIRE, of course. I have watched these guys since, well let’s just say a looong time, and watched them improve at every turn. I am not a fan of Brutal Technical Death Metal, but somehow Archspire has captured my interest, they have so much energy, always look like they are enjoying themselves, and the singer is brutal as hell. Each and every one of the guys looks like he loves what he is doing, and there is nothing better than watching a band that feels it. They are very professional in executing their songs, and have the drive and the talent to bring the people to the floor. They may be brutal, but obviously they have put some thought into making their sound original, with some harmony, deep melodies, memorable rhythms, astonishing riffs, what more can you ask for…..well, maybe a longer set. That says a lot since I am not a fan of the brutal tech death metal genre. Way to go guys, an amazing feat in itself. Truly a positive outcome to have Archspire on this bill. So much talent, and many caught it tonight. This was also the last night of the tour for Archspire. (Personal opinion, they should have been on the whole tour, they are that good).
So from Waregem, Belguim comes death metallers extraordinaire ABORTED. These guys brought a lot of metal heads to the front, and to the pit, which could be dangerous if you got to close. I held on at the front, and stayed there to fully appreciate this band. First thing, they had so much fun, yes fun, they were laughing and doing some other antics on stage while they performed, I am not going into the details, but if you were there, you know what I am talking about ;). But I think what was going on was something between Archspire and Aborted. But it did add a whole different dimension to their set, a good one. Its always great to see a band have some fun and still nail their set. If you want some bloodthirstiness, ruthless talent, then you have come to the right place. Make no mistake, tonight they dealt some brutal drum blasts, some ferocious riffs, and savage vocals. You want death metal , hardcore, grindcore, then this is the band to fulfill your barbarous dreams. I haven’t had the chance to see them recently, but damn, they need to come around more often. They played a remarkable, exemplary set.
The headliner is next, and we all now who that is. KATAKLYSM. Personally I don’t think I need to say anything more, the name says it all. But that would be boring. I just hope that I can do them justice. First off Danny Tunker guitarist for Aborted, filled in for JF while he was back home. And let me tell you , learning 9 songs in 2 days was an astounding feat, and he did a phenomenal job. Outstanding. Without him Kataklysm may not have been able to play the shows until JF’s return to the band in Seattle. I am sure that everyone really appreciated that gesture. It was also great to see Oli Beaudoin on drums. On April 11th it was officially announced that he became the official drummer for the band. Fantastic choice in my opinion, he is an “animal” on those drums. I have never ever been to a Kataklysm concert and been disappointed, and this one was the same. It was short, yes, but those songs played made up for the set being shortened. Great energy, fantastic choice in the song selections, everyone executing their unique sound to perfection. Their sound has been called Northern Hyperblast, due to the fast beat of the drums. That may be so, but for me, everything , the bass, guitars, drums, vocals, each just flowed together to perfection. Meaning they know how to execute their music, they have worked together to create something you soon won’t forget. Were you “Waiting for the end to come”, well don’t, I expect that Kataklysm has much much more to offer us still.
A great line up, with hours of brutal listening pleasure, what a great way to end the week. I hope I have caught your interest in this tour, because there are still some dates for you to catch them at. Listed below are the remaining dates, live close to one, then grab a ticket and catch this show, you won’t regret it.
04/17 Ramona, CA - Ramona Mainstage
04/18 Anaheim, CA - Mirror Image
04/19 Phoenix, AZ - Joe's Grotto
04/20 El Paso, TX - Tricky Falls
04/21 Denver, CO - Marquis Theatre
04/22 Kansas City, MO - Riot Room
04/23 Chicago, IL - Reggie's