Unholy Trinity is the title given to this travelling circus of some very impressive Black Metal bands. With a line-up of Rotting Christ, Satyricon, and Behemoth, and a meme-able price tag of 66,60 euros, we’re in for a treat. Tonight they raze the 013 in Tilburg.
Opening are Rotting Christ, not a band you would you would usually consider an opener. The Greeks are in excellent shape, though I will say the constant hyping up of the crowd never feels very Black Metal to me, but we’re at more of an arena black show today than grotty basement dweller black. The set is very passionate, though not entirely flawless. Some small technical issues seem to plague the guitarist by the end of it, but these sorts of things give a show character. They do come across as the most genuine band of the night.
Satyricon are on next, with a setlist full of classic bangers, the highly choreographed show kicked of with a bang. Opening with “Now Diabolical” and finishing on “Mother North” and “K.I.N.G.” – any Satyricon fan should be happy to see this. The entire band is in excellent form, though the headbanging in pure unison is a little much. I can’t detect any flaws in the playing, and even Satyr seems in an excellent mood the entire show. In recent years, the band have stepped up the professional production quality. This makes for an excellent show from a classically great band. Especially the crow-filled backdrop adds a lot to the visual vibe.
Sound quality is more than excellent in the entire 013 today still heavy as fuck without the need for earplugs. The lighting is also an excellent touch, with the traditional blue and red being supported by a decent amount of front-stage lights.
Finally, we get Behemoth, the mighty Polish band know how to make a dramatic entrance, with silhouettes on a massive white curtain before it drops to reveal snake-headed satanic sigil adorned mic stands. Plenty of fire and pyro are in the set from beginning to end, which is honestly a little spicy in the press pit. I don’t think there is such a thing as a bad Behemoth show, unless you aren’t into the heavy show elements. I will say this is as far as black metal can stretch for me, though the band still has a good bit of edge and threat to them. The sound is immaculate as well. They even played some of their older songs, including one of their very first, “Cursed Angel of Doom.” With the bill tonight, it’s obvious why Behemoth headline, being the powerhouse band they are. All hail satan, in the most dramatic way possible.
If Rotting Christ and Satyricon are churches to Satan, then Behemoth is a cathedral, and what a black mass it was. We go home anointed, dedicated, and endarkened. Unholy Trinity indeed. If you can catch this tour.
Buy Behemoth music and merch here:
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Buy Satyricon music and merch here:
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Buy Rotting Christ music and merch here:
https://amzn.to/42qgKHi
SUSANNE A. MAATHUIS
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