Live Review: Amon Amarth - Civic Hall, Wolverhampton
14th June 2023
Support: Bleed From Within
Words: Cat Finch
Photos: Tim Finch
It has been a long time, five and a half years in fact, since we stepped foot inside the Civic Hall, Wolverhampton. The once great venue shut down for years as the council overspent by multi million pounds on the refurbishment of the venue. Whilst it has been open for a couple of weeks now, tonight is where it gets properly christened with it’s first HEAVY show, as Amon Amarth come to town.
Bleed from Within took the stage early door, delivering a powerful and intense performance that left the crowd craving for more. They kicked off their set with ‘Stand Down’, instantly grabbing the audience's attention with heavy riffs and relentless drumming. The energy remained high as they seamlessly transitioned into ‘Sovereign’ and ‘Levitate’, showcasing their ability to combine melodic elements with brutal aggression.
The band's tight musicianship and chemistry on stage were evident throughout their set. ‘Into Nothing’ intensified the atmosphere, with the audience fully engaged and forming a wild mosh pit and of course a wall of death when the band called for it. ‘Flesh and Stone’ unleashed a relentless onslaught of crushing riffs, igniting the crowd's passion with their infectious aggression.
Their dynamic set and commanding presence left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. With an intense performance that united the audience in a frenzy of head banging and fist-pumping, Bleed from Within set the tone for an unforgettable night of metal mayhem.
As Iron Maiden plays through the PA and the crowd sing along, hidden behind a huge curtain Amon Amarth ready themselves for a night of action. As the opening notes of ‘Guardians of Asgaard’ ring out the curtain drops, in front of the drum riser on its ever present Viking crown the band stand proud. Bathed in a warm red light two giant Viking warriors tower over the band from each side of the stage.
The bands usual pyro show restricted in this venue, hence the band let the music do the talking. Through ‘Raven’s Flight’ and ‘The Great Heathen Army’ Johan Hegg's commanding vocals transport the audience to a realm of Norse mythology and ancient battles. The atmosphere was electric, with the crowd chanting along to every word.
With classics like ‘The Pursuit of Vikings’ and ‘Deceiver of the Gods’, the crowd's energy reached a fever pitch. The relentless intensity of the music and the band's unwavering performance had everyone headbanging in unison.
The set continued to captivate with a mix of fan favourites and newer tracks. ‘Shield Wall’ and ‘Raise Your Horns’ had the crowd singing at the top of their lungs, embracing the anthemic nature of Amon Amarth's music.
As the final notes of ‘Twilight of the Thunder God’ echoed through the venue, Amon Amarth left the stage having delivered a defining performance. From the epic storytelling to the thunderous riffs, every aspect of their set was executed flawlessly. They proved once again why they are revered as one of the most powerful and captivating live acts in the metal scene.
Photo credits: Tim Finch Photography
