This Swedish metal band is the only Avatar I will ever be interested in seeing.
Though I have seen Avatar countless times, I really couldn’t tell you the last time I attended an Avatar show that wasn’t a part of some festival. So this time around I was pleased that I was spoiled with two weekend options on this most recent tour. The one I settled for was a solid choice, but you know what, I think they need a bigger venue next time! I’m sure it helps that this city gets plenty of metal and rock acts, so of course the crowds are there. But by the time I made it in the venue, which was still before the first act was set to start, the place was packed!
I’ll admit, I had absolutely no clue who either of the opening bands were, and I can tell you that they weren’t my style, but it was a very supportive crowd. I even heard a good deal of people around me note how impressed they were with these bands, their technique, the whole nine yards. But of course, the main attraction was Avatar, and people rightfully lost their shit once they finally took the stage. I love how they have an element of medieval theater that they bring to their shows. Even them coming onto the stage felt like it was right out of a play.
The set pieces weren’t elaborate, but they did create a rich and royal atmosphere. The rest of the show’s mood was influenced by several outfit changes. At least Johannes had several outfit changes. But just the shirts and jackets. The whole evening he was sporting leather shorts with leather leggings underneath. Honestly, I loved them. The set was peppered with the songs that got them their fan base in the first place, like “Bloody Angel,” “Let It Burn,” “Smells Like a Freakshow,” and so many others.
I was tickled at the chance to hear “Colossus” and “The Dirt I’m Buried In.” I think the latter could sway anyone to become a fan. For me, that’s the song you lure people in with, and before they know it, they’re falling in love with these giant Swedish weirdos who like to dress up and flail their tongues on stage. Something a bit newer for an Avatar set was the inclusion of two much slower songs. “Howling at the Waves” wasn’t a song I was familiar with, but I’m a fan now! And he couldn’t just play one song wearing his “piano jacket,”so we were treated to “Tower” while the rest of the band got a little break.Gosh, what I wouldn’t give to experience more Avatar Country songs live, but “Legend of the King” offered a hilarious and glorious performance.
All in all, I was really happy I made the drive out to this show. It’d been so long, and they proved to me again why I am a fan to begin with. With a new album that dropped on Halloween, Don’t Go in the Forest, I hope to see more of them next year. And I’m sure I will.
