The infamous Regent Theater in Los Angeles hosted one of the most drool-worthy worldly metal lineups this year: Notorious Dutch symphonic act Epica, Italian death metal band Fleshgod Apocalypse, Russian Pagan metal act Arkona, and Canadian extreme metal band The Agonist. An entirely sold-out concert, the venue was jam packed with metal-heads of all sorts.
The Agonist
The Agonist opened the night, hitting the stage right as the venue began to pack. Following the departure of previous vocalist Alissa White-Glutz, current singer Vicky Psarakis came on to the stage with an immense fervor and energy – an excellent way to rile up the audience. Following her were band members Danny Marino on guitar, Chris Kells on bass, Simon McKay on percussions, and Paco on guitar. A band that is well known for their pleasing ability to mix both clean vocals and metal growls, The Agonist also stand out due to Danny Marino’s use of two or more intersecting melodies and unorthodox chords, often featuring wide intervals and octave displacements.
Arkona
Representing Russian metal, a rare and practically unheard of sight in the United States (if not most of the world), Arkona took the venue by storm with their tremendously energetic performance and sound that mixes traditional Russian melodies with very heavy riffs and aggressive vocals. Arkona incorporated several traditional Russian instruments, including wind ethnic instruments (performed brilliantly by Volk). Vocalist Masha Scream delivered a passionate enactment of her music, all of which was sung in Russian. However, despite the language barrier, the audience found themselves absolutely captivated and immersed- proven by the amount of CDs and merchandise the band sold after their performance. Guitarist Lazar and bassist Kniaz both absolutely killed their end of the performance, playing with an immense skill. Drummer Andrey played equally as dexterous.
Fleshgod Apocalypse
A sight that deserved to be seen rather than described, Italian act Fleshgod Apocalypse amazed and enchanted the audience with their direct opening to Epica. Fleshgod Apocalypse’s performance opened with the appearance of opera vocalist Veronica Bordacchini, who has joined the band as a live member for this tour. As the music features prominent operatic vocals in the background, it was quite a treat to witness a live singer rather than a recording. Veronica’s stage attire featured an extravagant mask and elaborate scepter- intertwining well with the band member’s exquisite baroque getup.
Next came pianist Francesco, serenading his intricately detailed grand piano. Front man and rhythm guitarist Tommaso seduced the crowd with his intense vocals and performance style. Band mates Cristiano, Paolo, and Francesco also took the performance to a whole new level with superb melodies and a very cohesive performance style. The audience went absolutely mad for their set, with mosh pits forming all around the venue.
Epica
Most can confidently say that Epica is one of the best known symphonic metal bands in all of the world. From operatic and growling vocals to profound melodies, this Dutch act has spellbound fans throughout the continents with their music. After having to cancel two American tours in a row due to unfortunate circumstances, it is of no wonder that the Los Angeles date sold out – fans have been waiting years to “make the world ‘epic’ again.” As a special treat, the band played music from their entire discography- including their most recent release, The Holographic Principle. With seven studio albums, the set was quite long and everything the audience could have hoped for. Having even done a meet and greet beforehand for VIP ticket holders, this band was received in the best possible way.
Bright, vivid lighting and a beautiful backdrop set the stage for Epica, who came out to a roaring applause. Drummer Ariën arrived on stage first, with a big smile on his face. He was followed by keyboardist Coen, who proved to be one of the most prolific keyboardist. Band mates Isaac on guitar, Rob on bass, and Epica founder Mark Jansen on rhythm guitar and backing vocals appeared on stage next. Of course, front woman Simone Simons joined the stage adorned in a silver dress and went right into the first song. A performance filled with beautiful singing, skillful growls, and talented melodies- this concert most certainly left a great impression on all that were lucky enough to score tickets to the show.
