CONCERT REVIEW: The Black Dahlia Murder – Phobophilic – Fuming Mouth – Frozen Soul – Terror, Live at Irving Plaza


 

The night of April 16h, 2023, was a momentous occasion for music fans as Phobophilic, Fuming Mouth, Frozen Soul, Terror, and the New York return of The Black Dahlia Murder, shook the walls of Irving Plaza. With a revamped lineup for TBDM since the tragic passing of vocalist Trevor Strnad, I like a lot of people were curious to hear this new version. Guitarist Brian Eschbach took over vocals and replacing him is former guitarist, Ryan Knight, keeping it in the family. It was emotional, to say the least.

Phobophilic took the stage and set the tone for the night unleashing their unique brand of old-school death metal upon the eager audience. The ferocity of their performance was mesmerizing, as the band ran rough complex song structures and relentless tempo changes.

Next up is Fuming Mouth, with their powerful fusion of hardcore punk and death metal. Their intensity was heightened by vocalist and guitarist Mark Whelan guttural growls. The bands crushing riffs and punishing breakdowns left the crowd eager for more.

 

Texas’ Frozen Soul’s icy death metal sound brought a chilling atmosphere to Irving Plaza. Their heavy, chugging riffs and slow, crushing breakdowns created a hypnotic effect that captivated the crowd. They delivered a blistering set that showcased their blend of old-school death metal and metallic hardcore. The crowd was whipped into a frenzy by tracks like “Arsenal of War” and “Death and Glory,” with frontman Chad Green’s deep growls and menacing chain link mic stand providing a highlight in their performance.

Terror took the stage with a vengeance, demonstrating why they remain a cornerstone of the hardcore scene. Their infectious energy and aggressive stage presence drew the crowd in, sparking frenzied mosh pits and sing-alongs to hits like “Keepers of the Faith” and “Pain into Power.” Scott Vogel’s commanding stage presence and the band’s relentless drive kept the crowd engaged and energized, setting the stage for the night’s headliner.

Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for had arrived. The Black Dahlia Murder. The band’s flawless musicianship and tight performance showed just how renewed the band is. Yes, the signature shrieks and growls Trevor are missed. However, Brian’s roar filled the hearts and minds of fans with confidence. I can’t lie, I got a little misty-eyed on “What a Horrible Night to Have a Curse” as the band tore through their extensive catalog of melodic death metal anthems. Performing songs such as “Nightbringers” and “Statutory Ape” complete with an ape, The Black Dahlia Murder delivered an unforgettable performance from a band with something to prove. Ending the night with “I Will Return and Deathmask Divine,” I am excited for what this lineup does next.

This tour is what I love about metal: a diverse and exhilarating sonic experience for Death Metal heads and Hardcore headbangers in attendance. There are no weak bands on this tour. This was a lot for me, I’m ready for a nap.

Buy music and merch from TBDM here. And RIP Trevor.

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WORDS AND PHOTOS BY OMAR CORDY