CONCERT REVIEW: Hypocrisy - Carach Angren - The Agonist - Hideous Divinity Live at The Warsaw

Hypocrisy, the band that got me into Death Metal, has returned to these American shores. Along with bands from The Netherlands, Italy, and Canada; it was a little Metal United Nations week here in Brooklyn to start the tour.

Starting the night of headbanging was Rome’s Hideous Divinity. Blasting out tunes about the Aliens movie franchise. I was hooked, since I love that first movie so much. This is also my first time seeing The Agonist, and Vicky Psarskis voice just owned the crowd. Even on such a tight stage, these Canadians had that headliner energy. This time, as a three piece Carach Anrgren was the direct support tonight. I have to say I’ve seen them before, and they’re just weird to me. I don’t fully get them. But these symphonic Black metallers are entertaining enough to keep watching and enjoy.

Like many headbangers, I was bummed to not get to see Horgh playing drums for what might be their last time in this country. I thought he’d be replaced by Peter Tägtgren‘s son Sebastian as he’s already in his other band Pain, but I guessed wrong. The drum throne went to Henrik Axellson of The Crown. I’m ok with that, as those last few records were bangers. With at least one song from thirteen albums represented out of the seventeen represented in the 30 year career of Hypocrisy, it was a great set list. It didn’t matter which album was your favorite, you heard something from that album, for the most part. Granted, as a fan, you always want more, but such is life. Bassist Mikael Hedlund is one the most consistent players out there with one of the best bass tones in death metal too. Peter is one of those rare vocalists that sounds exactly live in concert as he sounds on the albums. Along with fellow axemen Tomas Elofsson, they just complement each other so well.

One of the best parts about this tour is that all four bands don’t sound the same. Your ears will not get tired during this night. Hypocrisy does what I wish more bands did; respect their own legacy. If this is indeed the last time they ever play the USA live, then the kid who discovered this band back in high school in 1995 would be happy he’s managed to see them every time they’ve come through.