Πέμπτη 11 Μαρτίου 2010

BEHEMOTH Live in Athens March 10, 2010

So I was given two tickets to the Behemoth concert from a friend who could not attend. I admit that it was not my intention to go to the show, mainly because I knew the small venue was going to be more than packed and also because it was during a working day. Finally the ticket price of 25 euro seemed too much for these dubious times we live in. Anyway, since it would be a pity to waste the tickets though I decided to attend.

At this point let me say that I like Behemoth quite a bit. Their last few albums are nothing sort of outstanding, setting new heights for the death metal standards. I had never seen them live though, so I was quite excited that I ended up going.

Upon arrival at the venue (1 hour after doors opened), the second support act was just beginning. This was Greek death metal warriors Inveracity. The crowd seemed to be quite pleased as they were constantly getting cheered. I admit not being familiar with their music, and although they seemed to be very good at recreating it on stage, it’s not my cup of tea. So, I will not judge their, honest by all standards, appearance.

Now on to Behemoth. These guys are really excellent showmen. They had a fantastic sound quality, very imposing and impressive stage presence (although their every move was more choreographed than a Britney Spears videoclip… for fuck’s sake metal needs to be a little more liberated). They had a “shock and awe” triple vocal attack, a bombardier for a drummer and razor sharp lead guitars. Nergal was on top form with both his voice and his great guitarwork. The other guys were not far behind either. It was a literal tour de force in there. No complains whatsoever from the song execution part. Their international success is certainly based on the strong package they’ve created and are selling in album and live form. 10 for Behemoth the stage act…

BUT….

and here’s the flipside… I can understand that when the doors open at 20:30 and there’s two support acts, the main band will probably take the stage by 22-22:30 latest. In this case though, Inveracity completed their set at 22:00 and Behemoth took the stage an ENTIRE HOUR later! I’ve attended some big ass concerts with some huge names headlining and NO ONE EVER has needed over 30 minutes of soundcheck and preparation to take the stage. That is totally inexcusable and ridiculous on Behemoth’s part.

However, I kept thinking maybe they’ll play a nice full set to make up for the waiting… what do you know, their whole set took a mere hour and 5 minutes to complete. That’s including full minute (or more) breaks between songs, a drum solo and a few minutes hiding behind the amps stack before hitting the encore. Then suddenly, the lights turned out and our Polish divas rushed off the stage without having the courtesy to say a ‘good night’ or ‘thanks for your money’ or whatever… I mean, it’s one thing to act like a mean tough satanic overlord or whatever they’re supposed to be on stage, but you don’t fucking diss your fans that paid for you to become the fucking diva queens you are at the moment.

We were packed like sardines, were left waiting in pathetic circumstances for a fucking hour, then Mr Nergal didn’t even have the courtesy to play a 90 minute show (which is what I consider to be the ABSOLUTE MINIMUM for any self-respecting concert, especially if it is charged at full price). 0 for Behemoth the metal band.

Conclusion? BIG FAT FRAUD

Last time I felt so cheated after a show, was a few years back when I attended an Isis concert, who in the same way although gave us a great show, it was too bloody short for what we paid.

There you have it…

check out a live video I recorded


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