Thr Metalocalypse was upon us as Dethklok stormed the gates of San Diego this past week at the Observatory North Park. Offering a dose of brutality and nostalgia, the band showed why their legacy has endured for 20 years.
First on the bill was Thrown Into Exile. Offering a set of straight up Metal, it was a great way to kick off the evening. Band members even said how it was a dream come true to open for Dethklok after having watching Metalocalypse growing up. They did their best to get the crowd pumped up demanding circle pits and even a wall of death. If you are into a band in the vein of Lamb of God, definitely check them out.
Second on the bill was XCOMM, a band that combined bits of metal, hardcore punk, and electronic samples thrown in. The audience was throw for a loop when the band started out with a slower tempo song from the previous band, however after that the chaos kicked in. With lead singer Michael Gatto screaming his lungs out and the rest of the band keeping pace, they seemed to win the crowd over. Even with their technical issues XCOMM still played their hearts out and got their message across.
After that it was time for Dethklok to claim their throne. Beginning with a message from the band’s former manager Charles Foster Offdensen and band intro, the crowd was hooked from beginning to end.
The set was a juggernaut of sights and sounds. With a large screen projecting varios visuals and music videos straight from Metalocalypse, the nostalgia was truly strong for those who watched and embraced the show. Also with the band purposely kept as dark silhouettes, it kept everyone focusing on the visuals and brutality.
Performing favorites such as “Murmaider,” “Thunderhorse,” and even the Duncan Hills Coffee jingle; the audience definitely got their fill. The band even stepped into another universe to perform a Batman themed song “Batmetal.” We got to hear from Dethklok animated band members as well to give their greetings to the masses. Band mascot Facebones even chimed in and gave out some fun concert tips.
Metalocalypse/Dethklok mastermind Brendon Small showed that the show and band wasn’t just a gimmick, but a true metal experience. The songs are heavy, the delivery brutal, and the band sounds even more intense live than on the studio albums.
Metalocalypse and Dethklok are celebrating 20 years. With the reception and sold out shows they have been receiving it feels like they can go for another 20 or more years. The fans have truly never forgotten the world and music of Dethklok.
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