Review by John Hegarty for MPM
What a weekend of concerts it has been. First the mighty Pantera in Dublin on Friday 21st. Buzzing after a ferocious night of metal, I spent a few hours in the Gibson Hotel with mates before I made my way to Dublin Airport, to fly out to Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, for the second last show of the European tour for Opeth.
In preparation for the concert tonight we met up with a group of like-minded diehard fans the Opeth Commun(ion)ity. I first met up with Wouter and the gang in November 2018 at the Blue Anchor London. We have forged solid friendships through our passion of music in particular Opeth. Grand Café 3&20 was the location for this dedicated gathering. The excitement amongst us all was palpable as we discussed and reflected on the masterpiece that is Opeth’s newest 14th studio album “The Last Will and Testament” released November 2024. This concept album tells the story of the last will and testament of a wealthy, conservative patriarch during the World War I era which reveals dark family secrets.
Opeth comprise of Martin Mendez (Bass Guitar), Waltteri Vayrynen (Drums), Mikael Akerfeldt (Vocals, Guitar), Joakim Svalberg, (Keys, Vocals) and Fredrik Akesson (Guitar, Vocals). This progressive metal band originating from Sweden, began their thirty plus year career as a death metal band. Fans saw a departure from this genre with the release of Heritage in 2011. The band developed their sound to include elements of prog-folk-jazz-blues-metal and have earned the mantle of one of the most influential metal bands in Northern Europe. The newest offering sees Akerfeldt’s return to his once renowned death metal growl – combining both clean and dirty vocals.
I have been fortunate to have witnessed the magnificence of Opeth multiple times over the years both in the UK and in Europe. It’s more than just a gig it’s truly an immersive experience from the Swedish progressive titans. From the musicianship to the stunning lights and visuals it is a sight to behold. We approached the AFAS and once inside were impressed by the layout of the venue, in particular the merchandising, lockers and hot food vending machines. It’s a well organised venue and its efforts for sustainability are evident throughout.
Grand Magus are a pure, heavy metal, three piece from Stockholm. Originally named Smack, the band formed in 1996. The current line up comprises of Janne JB Christoffersson (Guitars/Lead Vocals), Mats Fox Skinner (Bass/Backing Vocals) and Ludwig Ludde Witt (Drums).
Grand Magus opened tonight’s proceedings with Elvis’s Jailhouse Rock. This heavy metal trio played for approx. 45 minutes and would stop in-between songs to have a beer and had the crowd chanting out to their lyrics, in particular “I the Jury” and “Steel versus Steel”. Grand Magus said that tonights audience of 6,000 was the biggest crowd they’ve ever played to. Having seen Grand Magus 5/6 times before I’ve come to expect their pure heavy steel metal riffs and chords and songs which have you chanting along that stay in your head. Having met the band before, I can confirm that they are really nice guys.
Finally the moment we were waiting for, Opeth took to the stage. The band begun with S1 from the current album followed by Master’s Apprentices and Leper Affinity. Witnessing Mikael’s ability to switch between clean vocals and growling is a sight to behold accompanied by the vastly talented musicians. Mikael’s dry wit and engaging commentary was ever present during songs. Highlighting that it was Joakim’s 55th Birthday a member of the audience threw up a card containing a crown. Joakim bashful, was encouraged by the playful frontman to put on the crown and reply to the fan who gifted the card.
Next S7, Haxprocess and In My Time of Need. The backdrop and visuals perfectly complemented the bands fusion of genres delivered by the collection of new and old classics. The sold out 6,000 strong audience soaked up the atmosphere. Mikael reflected on their origins and their love of early death metal bands such as Entombed, Dismembered and Grave, the last bands name of which he growled. Bands that inspired them – In flames and Dark Tranquillity, he then gave a special mention to Katatonia. In particular Jonas Petter Renkse, describing him as a genius and one of his best friends. Renkse’s wife gave him a flute which he played on the new album. 90s music influences on metal and death metal were discussed, with Mikael’s ever humorous commentary stating you had “2 Unlimited” laughing and then said “Pestilence and Asphyx”.
The band treated us to an amazing cover of Napalm Deaths, “You Suffer” Mikael changed the lyrics to “I suffer” – indicating he was experiencing back pain – ever the jester. The final two songs Sorceress and Deliverance were the highlights of the night for me.
Tired and still buzzing from the immense Opeth gig, and two days tasting the finest beer Amsterdam had to offer we made our way through Schiphol Airport to head back to Ireland. On the way through the Airport I spied Mikael and Walt. My mate and I couldn’t resist approaching the lads for a chat. We’ve been lucky to catch-up up with them a few times in Dublin and London. We chatted about the new album and the fantastic gig. Opeth always deliver a great variety of songs in their discography and an incredible visual event. Hopefully they will return to Irish shores soon.
Photography by Terhi Ylimäinen
