Chicago metal heads Starkill got the final battle off to an
exhilarating start. Their highly infectious energy circulated around the venue
that I think encouraged massive audience participation. The musicians
themselves are incredibly talented and very passionate particularly guitarist
Tony Keathley; his originally slick solos and riffs were a crucial highlight of
their set. They were most certainly the right band to start off the night of
metal and I hope they come back to the UK very soon.
I had seen Finnish battle metallers Turisas a few years ago
when they played Southampton University and I remember being impressed with
their live show. Last night was no exception. Anticipation and excitement were
already travelling around the venue as the band entered onto the stage. Turisas
entered with such liveliness and drive, dramatically opening with Ten More Miles. There was a song on the
setlist for everyone last night; from the triumphal gallant Rex Regi
Rebellis to the classic disco cover Rasputin
this eclectic setlist of songs went down very well with crowds at this sold
out show. Nothing was going to stop Turisas, even when either their impressive
stage smoke or the temperature in the room triggered the heat sensors twice and
like true warriors they battled on to make sure their fans got the best show.
Since this happened, my respect for the Finnish metallers has gone through the
roof.
The experience was truly enthralling; everything from the
general atmosphere of the venue to the fantastic music was just perfect. So far
the best live show of 2014.
Find Starkill here
