First time at Harlow’s in Sacramento to come and see the all-female band Crypta from Brazil. Unexpectedly, I walked in to see a long line for Crypta merch and a nearly packed show. The stage has good lighting for those afar to be able to see.

First up, the local band Wurm Flesh from Sacramento starts off the show with fast-paced drums and guitars, with grueling, deep vocals that sounds altogether quite gory and brutal. Fans were getting pumped up within their first song shoving, and pushing as expected in any metal show. The band’s serious look, and admiration for their nonstop performance had fans hooked.

Another local band from Los Angeles, CA, Contortion takes up the stage with the energetic vocalist/guitarist Brian Stone jumping around while performing. Hyping up the crowd even more. The band has a mixture of hardcore and metal music, that is starting to make a comeback. A band that I would definitely enjoy seeing again.

Now the band everyone has been waiting for, Crypta. This is their first US headlining tour and they have already had some sold out shows, supporting their new album Shades of Sorrow (Napalm Records, read our review here). As fans started approaching the front of the stage as Crypta came on, with the lights coming on as their intro – “The Aftermath” played on tape. The talented band started to perform, as fans kept pushing and shoving to get closer, phones pulled up to record them. Fans were trying to stage dive, but were too busy either moshing or in admiration of the band. Crypta sure makes their performance feel very personal and intimate, such as vocalist/bassist Fernanda Lira starring at their fans for a moment, even as their guitarists Jéssica di Falchi and Tainá Bergamaschi keep getting up closer to fans and into their faces. But one thing is noticeable, fans are also in awe by the speed of the songs, and some solos throughout their performance, from drummer Luana Dametto. Unbelievable riffs that have ritual melodies make you feel dazed, and just eager to headbang or move around. Crypta, despite their hardship last few years, have been doing superbly well for their own headlining tour. As the performance came to an end, Crypta were kind enough to stay awhile and meet their fans, taking photos with them, and signing their merch as the venue was closing out.

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY ANITA FRAUSTO