Live Review: Crypta - The Asylum Venue, Birmingham
18th June 2024
Words & Photos: Michael Wellington
On a hot June afternoon, Crypta brought their ferocious brand of death metal to The Asylum in Birmingham, delivering a performance that left the intimate crowd both exhausted and exhilarated. This night marked a special occasion as it was Crypta’s first time touring the UK, touring their new album "Shades of Sorrow." From the moment the band took the stage, it was clear that the audience was in for an unforgettable night of head-banging and sheer musical brutality.
Crypta’s setlist was a well-crafted journey through their new album "Shades of Sorrow," with a few favourites from their debut album "Echoes of the Soul" thrown in for good measure. The opening track set the tone with its relentless pace and crushing riffs. Fernanda Lira’s guttural vocals and commanding stage presence immediately drew the crowd in, her energy palpable and contagious.
Luana Dametto's drumming was nothing short of spectacular. Her precision and power drove the band forward, where her rapid double-bass work and complex rhythms were on full display. Guitarists Jéssica di Falchi and Tainá Bergamaschi delivered blistering solos and harmonies, their fingers flying over the fretboards with seemingly effortless skill. The interplay between the two guitarists added depth and dimension to the live renditions of the songs, elevating the studio versions to new heights.
The crowd at The Asylum was more than ready to receive what Crypta had to offer. Despite the chaos, the band maintained a strong connection with their fans, with Fernanda frequently stepping to the edge of the stage to engage with the front row, her intense eye contact and growls driving the crowd into a frenzy. The heat in the venue only intensified the experience, making the atmosphere even more electric. During the brutal, neck-snapping breakdown of "Lords of Ruins", the crowd eagerly participated in head-banging despite the heat. Looking around the room, everyone wore the trademark "chugging breakdown face" as they banged their heads in unison.
The sound quality at The Asylum was superb, allowing every detail of Crypta’s complex compositions to come through clearly. The mix was well-balanced, ensuring that the thunderous bass lines and intricate guitar work were both prominent and distinguishable. The intimate setting of The Asylum made the performance feel personal and intense, with the audience close enough to feel every vibration and every blast beat. The heat added to the raw energy of the performance, with sweat pouring from both the band and the crowd, creating a sense of shared intensity.
Crypta’s live performance at The Asylum was a testament to their technical prowess and stage presence. Their ability to deliver such a powerful and cohesive show in such a hot and intimate environment speaks volumes about their potential and the bright future that lies ahead of them in the death metal scene. For fans of the genre, a Crypta concert is not to be missed.
Photo credits: Michael D Wellington
