Though this heavy wave influenced music is not my cup of tea, live they can keep my attention. The criticism I will leave to the people who are more into this. All I saw was a band, which was giving the full 100%. An effective, angry drummer, almost destroying his kit, a keyboard player completely drowning in depressing moods and losing it all headbangin’ in the heavy pieces, but most convincing was the very emotional presentation of the singer/guitarist.

Musically this band exploits their instrument possibilities to the max within their genre, and though I wasn’t to pleased with their version of a ‘Nirvana’ song, the audience didn’t agree with me. The venue was warmed up well for ‘To Elysium’.

To Elysium
A few weeks before it was the other way around, ‘To Elysium’ was supporting the presentation of the 2nd CD of ‘The Wounded’. Both bands are at a point of a possible break through, and it’s admirable that they are willing to help each other further on their way.

After a short break, the intro of the debut CD ‘Dearest Vile’ is coming through the speakers and ‘To Elysium’ opens their set with a full energy ‘In Collision’, followed by ‘To A Flame’.

The sound is very good, the lights are tasteful, and the band is enthusiastic as young dogs on the loose. With this band I can imagine some firework added to their future shows. The classic 80s riffs based metal with strong Death and Gothic influences made lots of heads bang.

‘To Elysium’ is a very convincing live band. Bass player Andries, smiling from ear to ear, feels really at home on stage, as drummer Sjoerd, speeding like a rocket, seems like he lives behind his kit, easily doing his complex work. He even smashed a snare drum, which could be replaced thanks to co-operation of ‘The Wounded’.

Guitarist Ray, singer Esther and keyboard player Matthijs surely stood their ground, added their part and are still growing, but it were Rock and Roll Animals Rein (vocals) and Mannes (guitar) who stole the show, both technical as with their overwhelming presence.

The diverse set list consisted of the ‘Dearest Vile’ songs, as well as some very recent new songs. Guest singer ‘Ratteman’ (Carnal Leftover) joined for a new song with some ‘harmony grunting’ and one of the new songs had a melodramatic vocal/keyboard intro. Given the reactions of the audience, most favourite song was ‘Meridians Fall’, with almost inhuman speedy drum work.

After a successful set there was time for one encore: the well chosen ‘He Rears His Head In Laughter’. One thing is for sure, the audience had a great night, and about the bands must be said: they’re high quality and stand for their music.

(Review & Pics: Cor Schilstra)