SSE Wembley

Lamb of God – Tuesday 21st March 2023

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Potentially one of my more historic gigs, in that I bought these tickets around September 2019 for a gig in March 2020 and here we are 3 years, almost to the day, later and it’s finally happening. First came the global pandemic forcing 3 postponements and when we finally seem to have a fixed date the closure of the original venue, Brixton Academy, threatened to cancel it completely. However I think the band were pretty keen to deliver for us, for hanging on to the tickets and staying with them the past 3 years. So another change of date and venue which unfortunately meant a mid-week scramble for me.

I’m not all that keen on midweek gigs unless closer by and this one being at Wembley Arena is a bit of a stretch but actually better placed on the public transport network than Brixton is for me. Getting there worked quite well with the train stopping at Wembley Stadium next to which is the Arena. The arena has been through several name changes but most still call it Wembley Arena. Getting back there was a train with a connection arriving home at nearly 2AM the next day. Not ideal but needs must.

On arriving at Wembley I sought out somewhere to eat and found a pizza restaurant that was actually rather empty. A few other black clad people were in together with a couple of shoppers. Service was very quick and I was soon back out heading for the Arena. Bizarrely I had to go around the side to gain entrance rather than through the front doors but there was very little queue. Bypassing the airport security gates I got a quick pat down and wandered off to find some refreshments. Good grief the prices in here are astronomical even by London standards and other venues I recently attended. To be honest I think they’re taking the piss and had I known I may, along with others who arrived much later, stayed outside.

Drink in hand I then try to get to the standing area only to be told I need to have a wristband. What? “you should’ve been given one as you came in”, well clearly that didn’t work and, when I returned to the entrance, it was clear it definitely wasn’t as there were several of us trying to get them. By now the first band had finished but I went down anyway to have a look and wait for the next band.

I make my way to the sound stage and as I’m looking around I’m approached by security. She stops me and I explain I used to work for a company that makes mixing desks. We chat about what it’s like to work these gigs and what music she prefers. I’m told by her that the work is actually good that whilst she’s not a fan of the genre, preferring mainly blues and jazz, she finds the attendees polite and behave really well. I wish her a pleasant evening as I seek a more forward position and she needs to get back to work.

Kreator

Another band new to me and apparently from Germany although did sing in English. Odd stage set up with a red shrouded figure that looked to be impaled on a spear. Kreator come out and boom it’s thrash all the way. Very high octane, fast and furious guitar work backed by drumming that seemed to stem from the underworld. From where I stand it looks like chaos on stage but a controlled chaos which can’t really be said for the carnage of the pit raging mid arena. Not too bad but then they perform a song that takes, for me, a sinister turn. I’m fully aware of the imagery around the genre, the references to Satan and the Devil and I have no problem with that. However in this instance the dropping of 4 manikins mimicking a hanging was too much, reminding me of a past deeply unpleasant experience so I have to leave to process this and think things through.

My Review Score : N/A

Back out on the concourse there’s quite a few people still milling about as I head off to find some refreshment. With that in hand I find a stool to sit on overlooking the main entrance where I chill for a while to collect myself. Quite a few people are wandering around, queuing for the merchandise and enjoying themselves. All of which reminded me that’s what I’m here for and it’s been 3 years in coming so with a shake of the mind to push the sombre thoughts aside I get up and decide to check out the arena.

It all looks pretty much the same since I was last here except for the bar prices and the food stalls which have moved more towards the healthy end, well except for the sweets stall which I thought a bit odd for this type of gig and he wasn’t doing much business. Having completed a full circuit, well 3 sides, I end up on the right as you look at the stage. I’m in the upstairs area and right at the back which would coincide with the stage. There’s a door open so I go wandering in! It’s quite dark and I’m approached by security asking for my pass, I’ve inadvertently wandered into the VIP area. I retrace back onto the concourse and watch for a while as the VIPs, none I recognise and probably more groupie’s than VIPs, come and go. In for a penny I wander back over and ask the security guy about it all and we get to talking. He allows me to stay for a while and I’m able to make out the stage being set up for Lamb Of God and some of the VIPs in the seats, doesn’t seem that many to be honest but it is dark. I ask permission to grab a photo.

Backstage VIP Area

It was great, we had a good chat about music, VIPs and security but obviously I wasn’t going to be allowed to stay as he was given the 5 minutes to go nod. Leaving I wondered what it would sound like from there, behind the speakers and to the side. I made my way back into the arena and took up a spot to the right, looking up the VIP area was shrouded in darkness and it wasn’t long before my attention was directed towards the stage.

Lamb Of God

The opening bars of “Memento Mori” announce the imminent arrival of the band on stage as Randy Blythe begins to bark the opening lyrics with that distinctive gravelly voice whilst almost casually walking on to the stage. After the opening verse is spoken the final “Wake Up” is screamed as the band and crowd literally burst into life. From where I’m stood Randy is distant but you can definitely tell he’s acting on the edge, careening around the stage dreadlocks wind milling around as he leaps off virtually every piece of equipment on stage. The band are no slouches either and add to the energy pouring from the stage. This is all despite the fact this is the last day of their “State of Unrest” tour, their energy is infectious.

Where I started

The “State of Unrest” moniker definitely applies to the crowd, we’ve waited patiently for this show over the past 3 years. The change of venue even seems to have helped as it’s roomier and looks like there’s more people than would fit in the Brixton Academy, a testament to the draw of LoG. As these first songs are unleashed upon us drinks are thrown which, given the price tag, is quite something but I quietly finish mine.

Before their 3rd song Randy asks “Are you ready to get rowdy England?”, hmm looks like we already have but none the less the crowd roar “yes” and the opening strains of “Walk with me in Hell” begin another maelstrom in the middle. By now I’ve decided I’m joining in and aiming for the front I engage in that tornado of bodies whilst the band are furiously riffing and Randy has stopped singing. No need, the crowed are doing it for him and he stands looking on with approval. All the while the pyrotechnics are blazing away over our heads as I’m inched closer to the front.

Taking a breather I stand watching and listening to the next couple of songs. The almost bare stage setup is a stark contrast to some other headliners I’ve seen perhaps encouraging us to engage with the band and music rather than the props. Musically they are very tight, the combined guitars working in harmony backed by a thunderous bass line underpinned by the almost tribal beating of drums. Its fast and furious with little chat but things are about to get even heavier.

I’m thinking of getting closer as we’re given no respite with “Now You’ve Got Something to Die For” hits us like a tidal wave causing ever greater chaos. Joining in isn’t really an option given where I’m standing and managing to keep my feet I’m swept along with the sweating hordes, men and women, further forwards. As everyone takes a breather I’m now second row just below the stage where I’ll try to stay.

Where I ended up

Another point where Randy really doesn’t need to intone the words is the beginning of “Omerta” as we all shout it for him ending with “Such is the rule of honour” before more hell raising fire and brimstone is unleashed. Taking the gig as a whole it is brutal and yet beautiful, a coming together for like minded fans to forget the craziness in the world and simply have a great time. We’re all hot and sweating now but there’s more to come as LoG haven’t finished with us.

Originally meant as a promotional tour for their then latest album they since released another. However, whether by design or as always intended the set list is varied and covers 7 or their albums spanning almost 20 years. Next up is the title track of their newest album “Omens” but they follow this with “11th Hour” from one of their earliest albums. By now such is the weight of the crowd I can hardly turn round but what I can see is that the arena looks like it’s being besieged and laid waste to. Crowd surfers are up in force keeping security busy . Yet for all the mayhem there are a few touching moments such as when Randy apologises to us for it taking 3 years to get here despite none of that being within the bands control. I imagine when told of Brixton Academy’s closure it would’ve been very easy to just cancel the show but no from the whole bands demeanour at this point they would have moved Hell to be here tonight and I suspect it may have moved quite a distance.

They end the main set with a song about that “shitty little hole I spent some time in” explains Randy as he explodes into “512” channelling all the pent up anger he still seems to have about that time into a blistering delivery before they leave the stage for a break.

The 3 song encore is another tour de force with songs spanning their career. The penultimate song “Laid to Rest” is extremely intense as the pit grows ever bigger and stronger forcing more people forward and almost crushing us into the barriers. Yet there’s an ebb and flow to it so it’s all ok and security aren’t looking concerned. On stage the well-oiled machinery of the band is in full swing proving what expert musicians they are, all marauding around the stage whilst bashing out technically complex and brutal rhythms.

For the final track Randy wants to see the largest circle pit Wembley has ever seen. I can’t tell if that happened but given the volume and feeling the intensity through the bodies around me I expect it was very close. As the chords die down and the fire has dwindled the band applaud us as we applaud them. I feel as though my whole body has been pummelled together with my ears and eyes. This is the best I’ve seen Lamb of God and if it took 3 years to get here then it was well worth the wait.

My Review Score : 10

As we mill about waiting for the crowd to start dissipating security are urging us towards the exit. At the sound stage I see the security guard I was talking to earlier. She asked how it had been and I told her how fantastic it was and where I’d been. She was surprised given my age but as I told her you need to take life by the horns and ride the wave! (yes mixing metaphors but hey) She had had a quiet night as I’d thought she would, all the mayhem was at the front and never malicious. After a fist bump of thanks I made my way to the exit and the long journey home.

Nightwish

Nightwish – Saturday 8th December 2018

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After Beast in Black there was a half hour interval to get the stage ready for Nightwish, so we went looking for refreshments. Despite the arena looking quite full there weren’t the queues for the toilets or bars that I’ve experienced in the past. However, whilst waiting for a beer I chatted to a couple of blokes who’d remarked on one of the facilities having odd signage being representative or neither gender and possibly gender neutral. This had large queues of blokes waiting outside and was behind the bar prompting speculation about the origin of the beer!

Back in the standing area we propped ourselves against a wall but were swiftly moved on by security as it was an exit route. So instead we picked our way forward to be central and near the mixing desk. From here we had a great view of the stage and whilst waiting for the start I looked around to see who was here. Most seats were occupied but there were spaces and the standing area wasn’t full. Obviously selling tickets a long time in advance means people sometimes can’t attend but it wasn’t a sell out as far as I know. All ages and all types were there including a few in full gothic/witch outfit of black flowing dress and capes with matching bodices and I saw at least one bloke dressed similarly. Then there were the two women in front of us dressed “normally” looking like they’d wandered in to the wrong venue but bringing a splash of colour to the darkness. Oh, and unsurprisingly the over imbibed blokes (again).

Unexpectedly the lights dim, and we’re shown a video imploring us to turn off all mobile devices, camera’s etc. to “say no to the digital demon” and watch the show live rather than from behind a small screen. This raised loud cheers and appreciation but didn’t stop some raising their phones as soon as the band came on.

Nightwish

There’s a rustling in the crowd and pipes start playing heralding the start of the show. This has been billed as “Decades”, a tour through the back catalogue performing some old favourites and some never performed before. Now let me get the cynicism out of the way first, never performed before could be for many reasons including the band don’t like them or, more cynically, Floor (singer) has the vocal range to cover them but not the ones they’ve missed out. During the first quarter of the show I’m leaning towards the later reason.

They kick off with “Dark chest of wonders” and immediately we know that we are in for a show. The backdrop is a massive screen on which moving images are displayed matching the song being performed. Two large spotlights pierce the haze to pick out the various performers and there are two TV screens to show us close ups of the band as they perform. This will be a celebration of that back catalogue performed as a piece of theatre.

They follow that rush of an opening with the rousing “Wish I had an Angel” which is a favourite of mine. However, Floor isn’t Tarja and doesn’t have the vocal range to match. To me, when picked out by the TV and spotlights, Floor is looking uncomfortable performing it and it sounds slightly off. Perhaps this is because musically the band have toned it down to match Floors Alto producing a song that is somewhat less euphoric than when performed by Tarjas’ Soprano. On the flip side I must admire the band for doing this and not shying away from those songs that Tarja delivered with operatic quality but to reimagine them for Floor’s voice. Perhaps the nervousness was about how we would accept this reimagination.

Nightwish are generally thought of as a “Symphonic Metal” band but whilst some of those qualities remain, I think they are more of a “Folk Metal” band with overtones of orchestral qualities that blend together harmoniously producing a very distinctive sound. Perhaps “Melodic Metal” is a better genre.

By the time they got to “Gethsemane” the nerves were gone, the band were in full flow and the graphics were taking us on a journey through that garden that was sublime. The sound production for Nightwish was superb allowing us to hear the vocals, guitar parts, keyboards and drum crystal clear. Such clarity is rare at a metal gig but for a band like Nightwish it is essential. Apart from my reservations over “Angel” Floor delivered the rest of the songs superbly.

Floor had settled and was now orchestrating us from her commanding position on the stage. Dressed, like the others I’d seen, in gothic attire she’s prowling around encouraging us to clap, dance and generally move with the music. As seems customary now the show also includes copious amounts of pyrotechnics, huge gouts of flame are flung high over the stage warming us despite standing half way back. The flames, pictures and band are all moving in time with the music adding to the overall impression of a Showtime/Storytime. Each song is a tale told expertly by the music, vocals and scenery.

Moving through their varied back catalogue Nightwish treated us to soaring riffs, harmonious keyboards, flute and pipes all lending to the “Folk Metal” ethos, throw in the quality alto vocals and you have Melodic Metal in it’s “Endless Forms Most Beautiful”.

The ending was a little chaotic, had they left the stage? Had they finished? But as we made our way to the door they came back, or had they never left? I’m not sure if this was an encore or not but who cares as they did provide an ending with “The Greatest Show on Earth” with its exquisite visuals and followed with “Ghost Love Score”.

As the lights came up and we started to drift away the final parts of “The Greatest Show on Earth” played us out. Nightwish proved that when you get the sound quality right and couple it with a spectacular show, excellent musicians and great vocals the result is a spectacular experience. They breathed new life into older material and with Floor have found a singer to bridge the gap between old and new music.

My Review Score: 10

The journey home was OK but again being December the train was packed with people returning from London and we only got a seat half way home for our tired feet 😊

Beast In Black

Beast In Black – Saturday 8th December 2018

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Another gig at the SSE Wembley meant another easy train ride to London because the train stops at Wembley from our local station. Being December and a Saturday meant that the closer we got to London to more packed the train became. However, after an uneventful journey we arrived and made our way to find somewhere to eat. There’s a fair bit of choice for eating but in the end we plumped for a pizza instead of our usual pre-gig chicken feast.

Suitably fed and watered we made our way to the arena where it seems security were more on the ball than some reviews of the recent Slayer concert suggested. This concerned the wristband allocation for standing which went really smoothly although I still couldn’t explain to my partner why I’d bought standing tickets. Perhaps it was the memory of the last Nightwish gig we came to here. Security once again knew what I was talking about when I mentioned my pacemaker and this time the pat down was very thorough, yes that is my belt 😊

Once inside we headed for the standing area where, for Slayer, they had a bar but this time it wasn’t there which meant we had to go up to the concourse for drinks. The queues were nowhere near as large as the Slayer gig, but it was still early.

Beast in Black

I’d mentioned to my partner that she would be in for a surprise but hadn’t told her what to expect. Right on time the Beast emerged and kicked of with their namesake song “Beast in Black”. There on the main backdrop was the beast itself and at the sides two more smaller backdrops that, interestingly, were mirror images of each other. Beast in Black I’d describe as a 5-piece power metal band with duelling guitars, soaring symphonic like vocals and underpinned by a furious drum beat. Most of their songs were more ballad than full on metal making full use of the lead singers’ vocal range. I was expecting a rousing set.

However, I was disappointed by the set because of the sound. The mix was awful, the instruments were cancelling each other creating a kind of black noise and at volumes that Slayer would’ve been proud of. This left me feeling that there was something missing which were the vocal qualities of the singer as his voice was drowned out. This is especially evident on “Blind and Frozen” where the power vocals were destroyed by the black noise and electronica overlay.

Casting aside that black noise, which had me reaching for my ear plugs, and watching the band on stage you could just about discern the nascent qualities that the bands obvious talent can produce. The performance was tight, all parts delivered on cue to the point where various members left the stage and returned on the other side etc.

They had intervals a few of which had me cringing, mentioning signing body parts was just ridiculous and watching the singer and drummer engage in a drinking contest left me thinking they’d lost the plot. The drummer may well have done because during some songs he seemed to be beating his head for sound rather than the drums.

Beast in Black were warmly received by the crowd but by the end quite a few were feeling impatient. I blame the sound production for that and something they need to refine soon. However, I do expect Beast in Black to be around more and I’ll look forward to seeing them in all their glory again.

My review score: 7

Slayer

Slayer, Lamb of God, Anthrax and Obituary – Saturday 3rd November 2018

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The day after this gig I ached all over, not from the ravages of surviving the mosh pit but from the sheer ferocity of the music and force of nature the bands brought to the SSE Wembley.

The evening started with a train journey to Wembley Stadium which is next to the SSE, what used to be called Wembley Arena. The area has changed a lot since the last time I was here, with many new high-rise blocks being built. First stop was somewhere to eat and the shopping area next to the arena has plenty to choose from. I selected a pizza place and settled down with a beer having been placed next to a family who must’ve been feeling hungry judging by the amount of food that arrived. As they were leaving the mum apologised as the kids, all under 12, were getting excited and just missed bumping into me whilst I was still eating, “don’t worry” I replied but I was grateful nonetheless. They were pleading to go to the park and I thought they were on their way home.

Pizza finished I made my way to the arena to join the queue to get in hoping I’d be in time for the first band as my son had recommended them. At security I showed my pacemaker card and was ushered round the side of the barriers by one guard to another who stood looking rather bemused. He got the message eventually and after a pat down I looked for the way to my seat.

Obituary – 8

I entered the venue just as the band came on and because there were people standing along the barriers I joined them, otherwise I wouldn’t have been able to see from my front row seat. Eventually we were moved by security which became something of a regular thing albeit perhaps once per band. My son was right, Obituary were tearing up the riffs with a very solid performance and it was great to see the arena about half full. Whilst death metal isn’t usually to my taste this was something else. They started off with “Redneck Swamp” a storming instrumental introduction to what I would describe as melodic death metal. However, they soon hit the full death metal stride with gravelly vocals and exploding bass lines. There’s very little chat which allows them to squeeze in 8 tracks ending with the title track from their first album “Slowly We Rot”. A thundering climax to a great set.

What isn’t great for the arena is the lack of space for toilets resulting in large queues even for the gents. I get chatting to a couple of people and recommend Amplified Festival to them. I then head for the bar and more long queue’s and a mix up by me of the prices, I only had my eye’s tested 3 days ago as well 😊. On my way back to my seat I see the dad from the pizza place!! And say hello, hoping he’s got headphones for the kids, I’d brought mine and did use them for some of the time.

Anthrax – 6

By the time I got back Anthrax had started and I had neighbours. The back-drop features mainly skulls and Anthrax were specks beside them from where I was sitting. Things were kicking off in the standing area as well with a circle pit beginning to form. We were informed part way through that this was their 4th time at Wembley having played with Iron Maiden and Motorhead. For me Anthrax didn’t appear to be as thrash metal as I’d expected and some of their set blended into one giving me the feeling that it was all a bit samey. Perhaps down to song choice, sound issues or just me and my ear plugs 😊 However there were quite a few people enjoying themselves.

Time for another breather and I venture to the merchandise and simply must have a Lamb of God t-shirt because the logo resembles the “Weeping Angels” from “Dr. Who” but after queuing for 15 minutes they’ve not got my size, so I got the next one up. Walking away I decide to try another merch desk and asked to swap which they were happy to do. I returned to grab some more refreshments before taking my seat ready for the next band. By now the arena is looking virtually full and I’d taken a selfie which the security guard was happy for me to do as long as I didn’t go near the edge!!

Lamb of God

Lamb of God

Lamb of God – 10

The set for Lamb of God is starkly black and white with what appears to be a version of the American flag but with a single star. I presume this isn’t a reference to Texas as the “Lone Star State” but something else especially as all the colour has been removed. Before I can ponder this more the opening spoken words to “Omerta” ring out and as the music begins the band appears to the largest roar of the night so far. Their set lasts about 45 minutes and it is a bruising encounter both aurally and visually, I’m not using ear plugs and the stark colourless backdrop lends a furious intensity to the lighting. As usual at a LoG gig Randy Blythe is a tornado whipping round the stage screaming the lyrics with a passion and intensity I’ve come to appreciate. Below me this opening has lit the blue touch paper and the powder keg of the standing crowd has ignited as several pits explode into existence at once. LoG don’t let up ripping straight into “Ruin” before delivering a blistering performance of “Walk With Me in Hell” which has really turned the heat up and I’m sweating while head banging sitting down! Their playing is exceptionally tight as though their “hiatus” has brought a renewed vigour to the band, drums are heavy and vibrant, lead and rhythm guitars blistering, bass guitar thunderous all supporting and being supported by the volcanic vocals. “512” almost has me out of my seat joining the other chap now thrashing about on the walkway but he’s swiftly dissuaded by security, so I content myself to joining the vocals and jumping in my seat. Then there’s a gap in proceedings allowing everyone to pause for breath before they finish with a tumultuously thundering version of “Redneck” that sees an enormous circle pit develop from the fusion of two others, a maelstrom of sound, light and energy that at the end leaves us breathless but wanting more. I witnessed their tremendous upstaging of Megadeth in 2015 and together with this flawless performance of precision and power Lamb of God are overdue their own headline gig.

I needed a break after that and joined other like-minded people once again. However, this time things threatened to get out of hand as some idiot decided that queuing was not for him. He pushed past everyone muttering something I didn’t hear and was called back by his friend who then had to go and get him as people were getting edgy. He tried again bumping me in the process, so we made eye contact and again he was pulled back. Next, I felt something on the back of my head followed by laughter, OK calm down I thought, let it go. Everyone who knows me will know that I usually walk away from confrontation, after all wars have never solved anything but having thought about it decided that was enough. I turned around and looked him straight in the eye “Do you have a problem?” I asked, “no not me” was his reply perhaps thinking that was enough but he was then taken aback by my response “I think you do perhaps you’d like to tell me what it is” he said nothing and was looking rather subdued, his friend stepped in saying something like “he’s ok had a bit too much drink” and “Here we’ll buy you a drink” to which I replied “I don’t want a drink thank you I just don’t get what his problem is with me”, his friend said he’d take care of it. I returned to the queue chatting to someone next to me and we heard Slayers intro start just as we were about to get served. As I turned to leave with my drink the “friend” again apologised, and I told him I didn’t have a problem with him, but his friend could get into trouble if he wasn’t careful.

Slayer – 10

Lamb of God upstaged Megadeth last time they were here but if anyone could follow that performance it would be Slayer known to their legion of fans as “Slaaaaaaayyyyyyyeeeeeeerrrrr”! I may have missed the intro, but I was in my seat ready for “Repentless” to come rolling out of the speakers like an enormous clap of thunder. This wall of thrash metal is enhanced by inverted burning crosses, a backdrop festooned with pentagrams and huge gouts of flame Rammstein would’ve been proud of. Given that Slayer have been around for 30 odd years or so they have a large back catalogue to craft a set from. However, never having listened to Slayer before and unashamedly admitting I was here for Lamb of God I wasn’t aware of when the songs were from. One thing though that was evident was that it really didn’t seem to matter. Each song was delivered with a ferociousness that belied age, raw power with abrasive lyrics underpinned by scabrous (I mean that in a good way) harmonies that turned the crowd below into one giant seething multi-horned beast. I thought it was warm before, but now yet more fire is flung outward in all directions as the back-drop changes to reveal “Slayer Nation” and an army of skulls marching on. Yes, they certainly have their army, a legion of fans and, thinking of the kids from the Pizza place, new ones too. I’m enjoying it as there is something primeval about this an almost illicit gathering of black worshippers at the alter of thrash metal gods. At the end of the set, one in which there was only a cursory chat interlude, they deliver a riotous trio of tracks culminating with the aptly named “Hell Awaits” ‘kin hell that was brutal.

But there’s more to come and with a back drop of a fluorescent ravaged skull and pentagram they kick off the encore with “South of Heaven” before unleashing the beast that is “Raining Blood” where the “congregation” go wild. This is a band that is going out on a high, a band that you can believe would have the Devil quaking in his boots with the sheer malevolent riffs screeching like banshees over our heads. Yet they’re still not done, and they finish with a superlative rendition of “Angel of Death” that causes Armageddon in the circle pits below as they are determined to remove all oxygen from the arena with the amount of pyrotechnics they’re using. There are huge cheers, a mass of horns, applause at the end and some wistfulness in the belief that this is the end for Slayer.

As I said ‘kin hell that was brutal and tomorrow I would wake feeling battered and bruised without entering the seething mass of the mosh. But! I was damn glad to have witnessed Slayer in all their might and been a very small part of, what we believe, is their farewell tour.

As I leave to go for the train home I walk past the mum and daughter from the pizza place! We exchanged hello and that we’d had a great time as we go our separate ways. People who met for the briefest moments and witnessed the triumphant passing of the greatest thrash metal band ever.

Babymetal – Saturday April 2nd 2016

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On April fool’s Day Babymetal unleashed their new album, Metal Resistance, on the world. You could forgive yourself thinking that this could be one huge April fool joke but remember Gmail was announced to the world on April 1st 2004. To support their release Babymetal kicked off their world tour in London with a concert at the SSE Wembley Arena.  The arena has a capacity of 12,500 according to Wikipedia and it’s interesting to note the differing accounts of the audience size for the show in these reviews:

http://www.theguardian.com/music/2016/apr/03/babymetal-review-j-pop-teen-metallers-wembley?CMP=twt_gu

http://www.dailystar.co.uk/showbiz-tv/music/505581/babymetal-review-wembley-sse-arena

http://www.upsetmagazine.com/live-reviews/babymetal-business-wembley/

http://teamrock.com/feature/2016-04-04/6-things-we-learned-at-babymetal-s-wembley-arena-show

The daily star didn’t even bother to use photos from the show.

As I sat looking out over the seating and floor area’s I’d say that 8,000 was a more likely figure, there was plenty of space left in standing and lots of empty seats. That said it was still an impressive crowd for a band that divides opinions so widely.

The day for my partner and I started in bright sunshine heralding the dawn of spring but that didn’t last as we got off the train at Wembley Central to a light drizzle and grey leaden skies. It’s a short walk to Wembley Stadium and the Arena from the station and we had time to spare so ventured into the shopping area. We had a few hours to kill so I thought it’d be a good idea to go to the Library next to the arena. Yes OK I forgot it was Saturday and when we got there it was shut. However we passed the arena which was thronged with people waiting to get in and also a massive queue for an outside merchandise stall. It was there I saw an anomaly, someone was dressed as one of the musicians all in white with white face they really stood out amongst the sea of black. Here we noticed lots of Japanese (not surprising because Babymetal are from Japan), lots of people in black (de rigeur clothing for a metal head) but also a fair few ladies and one man!! Wearing tutus. I wondered aloud to my partner if there was a special on-line clothing firm doing a roaring trade in Babymetal skirts. Food for thought but not for the stomach so time to find somewhere to fill up. We decided on Nando’s and got seated quite quickly. Fed and beer’ed next stop was Tesco for some more beer before having to purchase the ridiculously expensive water at the arena. However the special offer on G&T was too tempting and we left can’s in hand to find somewhere warmer to drink them.

Having polished off the G&T we headed in to the arena passing through the now usual bag and body search. I had a nice chatty man search me who I wished a good evening free of trouble. Wow the locusts had certainly done a good job on the merchandising as a very long queue was informed by security that everything had been sold! Passing one of the open doors we caught a glimpse of the Radio 1 rock show DJ doing his set. Hmm I only heard a piece of one song but I’m not sure why he thought Jay-Z and “99 problems” was suitable for a metal gig, so it was off to the toilet and bar!

We made our way to our seats in time for the alleged start and once in our seats I noticed several children in the crowd. Now I know it’s Babymetal but children as young as 6/7, I’m not so sure. This prompted a discussion with my partner who though that music should be available to all. I agree with that but remember this is a metal concert where the sound systems usually push 100 decibels or more and whilst Babymetal don’t swear (at least not in English) that’s too loud for young ears unless they are protected.

Then video screens kicked into life and the funeral march of “Babymetal Death” booms out across the arena. Up pop the 3 singers on an extended stage in the middle of the floor whilst their white shrouded musicians keep in the background. The stage is meant to resemble a temple which each player in an alcove. However to me it reminded me of the alien spaceship the crew of the Nostromo found in “Alien”. I’ve no clue as to what “message” Babymetal are trying to get across with their fox god and the like and I’m not bothered because I’m here for the music.

Babymetal are a very polished act which you can see throughout their choreographed dance routines, stage movement and song changes. Yet despite this they grab you by the scruff of the neck and hurl you into the maelstrom of thrashing guitars and overpowering metal melodies. Then comes the part that I think divides people: they start to sing. At first their voices are grating, they seem way too high for the metal infused music with its heavy bass line but once your ears adjust they begin to blend with the speed metal being thrust out over their heads by the group.

As I said the show is very polished and has everything in it, costume changes, video overlay and interludes, fireworks and solo performances for the band as a way of introducing themselves to us. Looking around I can see that everyone has been caught up in the atmosphere being generated by the band as a whole. Eventually a small mosh pit forms that grows throughout the show into a large cyclone of demented fans. The set is a mix of their 2 albums and the new music sounds really good and more so if you can forget (and forgive) them for parodying Star Wars and misappropriating the devil horns sign of metal as a sign of their fox god.

Before the start of the gig I saw a Norwegian flag which was joined by Japanese, French, British, Irish and many others during the song “The One”. We are also shown a live video feed from Japan which sends the crowd into a frenzy again and perhaps Babymetal’s intention is for us all to be “One”.

Before the encore I visited the bathroom and chatted with a chap, we both agreed that the band are very accomplished metal musicians who, with a more grizzled lead singer, would not be out of place as a speed metal group.

At the end the lights came up and we all trooped out in the cold damp night of Wembley. They have a huge faithful following and yet some, like me, still feel a little bit weird after witnessing the seemingly unstoppable juggernaut that is Babymetal. Will I go again? Only time will tell but for now I leave feeling uplifted.

My review score: 9

Nightwish – Saturday 19th December 2015

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My final gig of the year saw me back at SSE Wembley to see Nightwish a band I had wanted to see for a long time. This time I was going with my partner as Nightwish is more symphonic metal than hard core and, as she sings in a choir, I thought she’d appreciate the more harmonious sound of Nightwish.

I had booked the tickets on pre-sale months ago and got what I thought would be great seats only to be informed a few months later that the seats didn’t actually exist! WTF why go ahead with a presale and then change the seating arrangement I was pretty pissed off because all I was offered was standing or at the back. If you’ve been to the SSE Wembley you’ll know at the back is a long way off but that’s all I could go for since my partner’s not up to the hurly burly of a metal gig. If I’d known I’d have got seats round the side. Anyway gripe over.

We went to London early and had some food before deciding that a couple of drinks beforehand would be a good idea. Supplied by a local Tesco we sat near the venue drinking from bottles watching the world go by. As is the norm now on arrival we were searched a reflection of how times have changed since the start of the year.

Once inside it looked like a crowd of locust had descended on the merchandise desk as there was virtually nothing left. As we passed one of the doors to the inner sanctum I could hear Arch Enemy on stage. Sounded pretty good to me but not really my partner’s cup of tea so we waited them out. I caught another drift of heavy metal from a door we passed and I paused for a few seconds to listen, this sounds really good I thought and then the door was closed by security. However not before I’d managed to make out that the lead singer was female, well that was a surprise to me. Wonder if her vocals are put through some sort of distortion because I’ve never heard a female vocalist get make the growl of death metal out of their vocal chords before. Not long after my bad back took its toll of standing too long and we made our way to the seats. My partner donned her ear plugs for the rest of Arch Enemy and again I wondered about the vocals because when the lead singer spoke she definitely had a nice female voice. We’d arrived just in time for the last 2 songs and I certainly enjoyed what I’d heard.

Before coming I’d tried to make out the running order and thought that Arch enemy would be first but clearly from the time now we’d probably missed Amorphis which was confirmed by the guy sitting next to us. Time to get a beer in before the main show. I returned just in time, the stage was prepared although from where we were sitting I couldn’t tell what form the various shapes were that supported the stands etc. There were also several large screens behind where the band would play and these lit up, pyrotechnics start flaring and the sounds of “Shudder before the beautiful” fills the arena. It seems that Nightwish subscribe to the theory of “Play it fuckin’ loud” and “turn it to 11” because the sound is thunderous and only builds from the applause and screams from the thousands of adoring fans. If we thought that was loud the volume only increased as Floor’s vocals lit up the venue without the need for further pyro’s.

Nightwish continue through their set list of mainly new songs from the album “Endless Forms Most Beautiful” but do intersperse some older ones. The show, and it is definitely a show, continues with vigorous and explosive light and pyro matching the music and the diverse vocal talents of Floor. Every member of the band is pouring their soul into the performance striving to produce “The Greatest Show On Earth”. It is a great show and I am enjoying it as is the packed venue including the people around me. However it is clear that the couple on my right are new to Nightwish as they grow quiet during the older songs including one of my favourites “Ever Dream”. The onslaught of the show is relentless and never more so as we go into the final few tracks and they deliver an outstanding performance of “Ghost Love Score”. At this point I’d like to point out that whoever put on their Facebook page “play Ghost Love Score or don’t bother coming” isn’t exactly getting behind a band that has in their repertoire a song they really enjoy, a band is never just one song.

The finale was “The Greatest Show On Earth” and as the band waved their goodbye’s I made a quick exit to rid myself of all that beer, expecting a few minutes before an encore. However when I got back Professor Richard Dawkins had just finished reading the final lines of that track. No encore but they had played for nearly 2 hours.

I’ve left writing this review for a time because as I came away from the gig I felt disappointed and didn’t know why. Nightwish lived up to the billing and delivered a professional show but something was missing. Was it because I really enjoy the operatic qualities of Taja’s vocals? Was it the lack of an encore? Or was it because my back really hurt distracting me? In the end it was none of these. Whilst Taja certainly has a fantastic voice and it was noticeable that Floor didn’t sing any of those tracks that Taja excelled on Floor brings her own dimension to the songs both old and new. Lack of an encore is unusual for a headline act but not unheard of and we were at the curfew time so that may well have been out of their hands. My back had calmed down during the set so I don’t think that was a distraction. No in the end I think it was the sound, it wasn’t as polished as I was expecting and not in tune (pun intended) with what Nightwish are musically. The SSE is a tricky venue being basically a concrete block and maybe sitting at the back was what made the sound distorted. I certainly hope that the DVD they were recording had a direct sound feed.

Looking forward to seeing them at download where I’m sure the experience will live up to my expectations.

My review score: 8

Megadeth – Saturday 14th November 2015

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After Lamb of God had finished their assault on my senses I decided it was time to use the facilities! As always in the queue for the gents I tend to get chatting with someone and today was no exception. A chap had seen my Download 2013 t-shirt and asked if I was going next year and so we had a conversation about Download. My stomach was rumbling so I decided a hot dog would suffice and whilst munching my way through had a brief chat with one of the stewards who was looking a bit glum. She soon cheered up and whilst I didn’t mention last night’s atrocities I think it was playing on her mind. Some liquid refreshment was required if not but to wash down the hotdog and at the bar I was served by a happy smiling lady. Mingling with the other concert goers I felt part of the wide family of Metal fans. I texted my daughter to tell her what a fantastic time I was having and my son but I’ll keep that text private.

Next up were Megadeth and the lads next to me were waiting for them as I noticed they had VIP laminates. Personally I’d be a bit disappointed with the seats for a VIP guest but they were having a great time and thinking about it I guess you would wouldn’t you. The other guy was still looking glum.

On they came to what one reviewer called the “mind-blowing Hanger 18”, I’d never seen Megadeth before so I can’t comment on that. However I swear they’d fiddled with the sound system and whilst they were now louder than Lamb of God (that takes some doing) I couldn’t hear anything of the lyrics. Not knowing any better I can’t say if this was a mix up with the sound or Megadeth’s usual output. After a few songs it became clear it was a problem with the mix and the songs were now coming through loud and clear with the emphasis on the loud J

The guys next to me had only slightly more hair than I did but they were going for it in true head banging style. However there were 2 guys in front of me that not only had the hair but knew what to do with it and were fervently trying to fling their head off or at the very least head-butt the safety pole in front of them. Glum guy was looking slightly alarmed at all that hair flailing around in his general direction so I took it upon myself to go into full (non hair) head banging mode along to the song “Skin o’ My Teeth”, after which came a heavier but slower song “Symphony of Destruction” which allowed me to recover my breath.

Just prior to the end they played “la Marseillaise” in tribute to all the people caught up in the terrible events of last night and which was appreciated by the crowd.

When the end came I knew I’d had a fantastic evening and as I was leaving I spotted the steward I’d spoken to earlier so I took her hand, shook it and thanked her for being there as well. I headed out into the night thoroughly satisfied if a little worse for wear!! I made it back to the B&B BTW J

My review Score: 8

Lamb of God – Saturday 14th November 2015

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After the events of the night before in Paris I was a bit nervous of going along the The SSE Wembley to see the Lamb of God/Megadeth gig. However I’d gone to a lot of trouble to work out a plan to get there because of a football match I was officiating at in the afternoon. During the week I’d been in touch with customer service at the SSE to find out set times and Caroline had kindly given me provisional timings. This enabled me to book a B&B in High Wycombe where I could get a train direct to Wembley Stadium and back. From the timings I knew I wouldn’t make it to the first 2 bands Sylosis and Children of Bodum so if you’re interested you can read a review here.

Match over I headed straight off to High Wycombe. Arriving in good time I quickly changed into my civvies and got directions from the helpful receptionist to the train station. With nearly 30 minutes to spare I popped into an off licence to get some cans and a snack to eat on the train. I sat opposite a lady who was quite nervous throughout the journey and kept asking what station we were at as the announcement was a bit garbled. Hopefully she met up with whoever she was meeting OK. On arrival at Wembley I walked the short distance to the SSE arena and, as I had 2 cans to finish off, wandered about a bit spending a bit more time looking at the people passing by than I would’ve done yesterday. Wembley was lit up in the blue, white and red of the French tricolour and the words “Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite”.

Beer finished and cans responsibly disposed of I headed for the entrance and the only noticeable change of the evening on entry I was frisked by security as was everyone else. A quick scan of the merchandise I spotted a Lamb of God t-shirt I decided to get but the lady selling them only had medium or extra-large and after a bit of banter as to whether I’d fit my belly into a medium she mentioned another stall upstairs. T-shirt secured I got a drink in to go and see the band. Once in the auditorium I noticed empty seats which, considering the line-up, was surprising but then I can’t blame people for being nervous. On one side of me was a group of guys who were up for some chat and joking around but on the other was a guy who looked like he didn’t want to be there.

Lamb of God started out with “Walk with me in Hell” and all at once the auditorium was filled with noise both of the band bashing and screaming their way through this favourite and the fans jumping and head banging along yours truly as well (despite the lack of suitable hair). My seat wasn’t too bad to get a good appreciating of the stage setting where the band were flanked by large video screens. Myself, like so many others (except that guy sitting next to me), were caught up in the ferocious intensity of the music, the cataclysmic drumming and heavy guitar riffs not to mention the enormous energy of Randy Blythe who leaped around the stage like a cyclone.

At a break between songs Randy then reflected on what had happened in Paris with “What happened makes me sad, it makes me cry, and it makes me angry. But it will not make me afraid, and it will not make me hate”, I agree with the sentiment of his heartfelt statement, he then thanked us for coming and dedicated the next song to the victims of La Bataclan.

Time seemed to speed past but perhaps that was because of the pulsating headlong rush of the music from many favorites being played. This is raw brutal music at its very best and I was loving it. Towards the end I was wishing that I could go down to the floor and join in the seething crowd. That feeling only strengthen when Randy encourage them to form the biggest circle pit I’d ever seen. Given my dodgy knees though I’d probably pay for joining in the next day so I contented myself with letting the music carry me spiritually through a maelstrom of circling mayhem.

They finished as energetically as they started and by the time the last strands of “Black Label” had faded the crowd was screaming and applauding in equal measures. I was elated and pleased that I had made the effort to come despite my initial nerves and I spared a thought for those innocent people caught up in last nights terrifying events.

My review score: 9