OPETH // BARROWLAND BALLROOM, GLASGOW
OPETH PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S LEGENDARY BARROWLAND BALLROOM
★★★★★ (5/5)
OPETH PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S BARROWLAND BALLROOM
PHOTOCREDIT: SABRINA RAMDOYAL
The Barrowland in Glasgow, Scotland, served as a vibrant haven for music lovers from all walks of life on a chilly night. Under the iconic shimmering lights of this sold-out event, Sweden’s progressive rock titans, Opeth, released their latest monumental album, The Last Will and Testament." The evening promises to be a celebration of music at its finest alongside much-anticipated tracks from their extensive catalogue,
It had been a while since Grand Magus last performed, but the evening came alive with the powerful riffs from "I, the Jury" and "Skybound." The clash of instruments resonated through the venue as the crowd cheered for songs like "Steel Versus Steel" and "Ravens Guide Our Way." With a playful nod, the band unleashed biker-style riffs in "Sunraven." “Untamed” showcased their signature sound, and “Like the Oar Strikes the Water” reminded fans of their 2008 album, Iron Will, from their ten-album journey, creating a strong bond with a dedicated fanbase craving authentic heavy metal. The night culminated with "Hammer of the North," as the room erupted in harmonies that reverberated like thunder, dedicated to the early arrivals. At that moment, the unity between the band and the audience created a breathtaking resonance that filled the venue.
As the haunting notes of violins filled the venue, Opeth created a sense of anticipation that enveloped the audience. The Swedish progressive death metal band was about to unveil a narrative layered with a rich tapestry of sound. The entrancing combination of "Master's Apprentices" and "The Leper Affinity" ignited an even greater response, unleashing waves of appreciation from the crowd. Mikael Åkerfeldt’s effortless banter flowed like a warm stream, charming the Glaswegian crowd by declaring that while the night was “pleasant, the music is undeniably unpleasant.” Each remark added a refreshing twist, drawing the audience deeper into the experience.
The audience was captivated by an absorbing segment from "§7," where intricate layers of sound interwove like a beautifully crafted mosaic, creating a vivid auditory experience. As "Häxprocess" filled the venue, its complex rhythms drew the crowd into a reverent hush, where even the softest rustle became a resonant whisper against the unfolding intensity. Cheers erupted to "In My Time of Need" like a heartfelt lullaby, inviting the audience to join in a passionate sing-along that created a stunning tapestry of sound. This was followed by the bittersweet nostalgia of "The Night and the Silent Water," thrilling long-time fans to their core.
The significance of "§3" ignited a wave of hard rock and metal that sent the crowd into a jubilant celebration. During the UK tour, each city received a special highlight, and Glasgow was no exception. The audience gushed with excitement at the opening notes of "The Baying of the Hounds!" The joyful cheers from Barrowland resonated like an explosion of delight, creating an anthem of love for a long-beloved favourite. Amid the brief chaos when Opeth paused, a memorable moment unfolded in Glasgow as one audience member exclaimed, “We heard it first; it’s more than enough!”
The evening reached a thrilling peak with the performance of "Ghost of Perdition”, and in contrast, "A Story Never Told" showcased the band's music even further, highlighting Frederik Åkesson’s intricately crafted riffs. These built up to a breathtaking crescendo, enhanced by Martin Méndez’s basslines, Waltteri Väyrynen’s sophisticated sound patterns, and Joakim Svalberg’s impressive keyboard skills, all of which left the audience in awe. As the night gracefully ended, it culminated in a powerful one-two punch that highlighted Opeth's remarkable versatility. "Sorceress" unfolded like a mesmerising auditory journey, enchanting everyone captivated by its beauty. This was followed by the resounding finale of "Deliverance," a sonic wave that echoed long after the final note had faded.
Whether it was through their unique blend of classic progressive rock and modern metal or the triumphant return of growls that resonated throughout the venue, the sold-out gig at Barrowland undeniably showcased the beloved facets of Opeth's extraordinary artistry.
