Katatonia has always been known for their ability to evoke deep emotions through melancholic soundscapes and introspective lyrics. This reputation held strong as they took the stage at KK’s Steel Mill in Wolverhampton on a misty bonfire night.
Opening the evening was the Belgian band Cobra The Impaler. "I saw you at Bloodstock!" shouts someone between songs, whilst another audience member passes a walking cane onto the stage. Why? Beats me. Frontman Manuel Remmerie's vocals to me were very reminiscent of M Shadows of Avenged Sevenfold, but they also could command the stage like a frontman of a band that size.
Next, Katatonia, the Swedish masters of doom and gloom, opened with “Austerity,” an intense track from their latest album, Sky Void of Stars. Right from the start, it was clear that Katatonia was there to captivate. Frontman Jonas Renkse’s vocals were hauntingly beautiful, carrying a deep sorrow, if only one particular audience member kept quiet enough for everyone to hear undisturbed.
Between songs, Jonas kept his words minimal yet sincere, allowing the music to do most of the talking, besides a moment where the time had to be filled whilst a new snare drum was fitted, leading to an audience vs Jonas "We love you" stand off.
The setlist was a carefully curated journey through Katatonia’s expansive catalogue. Mostly consisting from their release The Great Cold Distance and deep cuts from Night Is The New Day made welcome appearances, each one greeted with enthusiastic applause.
In true Katatonia fashion, these heavier moments were skilfully balanced by quieter, more introspective songs. The band’s performance of “Old Heart Falls” was especially striking, with each note creating a palpable sense of loss and longing. One of the standout moments of the night was "My Twin" a fan favourite that saw the entire crowd singing along.
Visually, the stage setup was minimal yet effective, with dim, moody lighting that underscored the introspective nature of the music. Each song felt like a vignette, accentuated by soft blues and reds, creating an immersive environment that complemented the band’s introspective themes.
A true masterclass in emotional, atmospheric metal, blending heaviness with introspection and crafting a live experience that will linger in the memories of all who attended.
Katatonia played:
Austerity
Colossal Shade
Lethean
Deliberation
Forsaker
Opaline
Leaders
Behind the Blood
Teargas
Soil's Song
Birds
Flicker
Old Heart Falls
Criminals
My Twin
Atrium
July
Evidence
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