Kamelot Ignites NYC’s Webster Hall in a Fiery Night of Symphonic Metal Bliss with Support from Battle Beast and Xandria

Ryan Murray | Co-Owner | Chief Editor | Contributor | Photographer

r.m.music84@gmail.com

The excitement was palpable as I arrived at NYC’s Webster Hall for an epic night of metal. The check-in process was smooth as I eagerly received my photo pass and ticket. With about 30 minutes to spare before the show kicked off, I had the perfect opportunity to settle into my home away from home in the photo pit, alongside three fellow photographers I’ve had the pleasure of shooting with before. It was the beginning of a night that promised unforgettable performances from three incredible bands: Xandria, Battle Beast, and Kamelot. Metalheads of all ages and backgrounds gathered in anticipation, ready to be immersed in a symphony of sound and a visual spectacle that would leave a lasting impression.

Xandria’s performance at Webster Hall was a testament to their resilience and rejuvenation. With a history of lineup changes, the anticipation for their set was high, and they did not disappoint. The familiar face of Marco Heubaum, alongside the introduction of Ambre Vourvahis as the new lead singer, guitarist Rob Klawonn, and Dimitrios Gatsios on drums, brought a palpable freshness to the band. Their undeniable chemistry on stage defied the fact that this was their first North American tour with the new lineup. The only thing missing was their bass player Tim Schwarz.

Ambre’s vocal range was nothing short of awe-inspiring. She seamlessly transitioned between melodic, angelic tones and irresistibly powerful and harsh vocals that reverberated through the entire theatre. It was a display of vocal versatility that left the audience in awe. The setlist, featuring tracks “You Will Never Be Our God”, “Reborn”, “Nightfall”, “Ghosts” and “Valentine”(FULL SETLIST) showcased Xandria’s ability to craft songs with a massive sound that kept the audience spellbound. The band’s commanding presence and infectious enthusiasm were undeniable.

As Xandria played on, the crowd was transported into a world of music bliss. The stage presence of Dimitrios Gatsios and Rob Klawonn was nothing short of captivating. Dimitrios’s drumming was a relentless force, driving the songs forward with precision. Rob’s guitar work was a thing of beauty, adding layers of melody and power to every note. Together, they formed a formidable musical backbone that allowed Amber’s vocals to soar.

The audience was not just witnessing a performance; they were part of a journey led by Xandria. With each song, the connection between the band and their fans grew stronger. It was evident that Xandria had not only reinvented themselves but had also forged a deeper bond with their audience, making this night at Webster Hall truly special.

Hailing from Helsinki Finland, Battle Beast stormed the stage with a ferocity that turned even newcomers into instant fans. Noora Louhimo, the lead singer, was an absolute powerhouse, dominating the stage with her electrifying vocals. Her energy was infectious, and she engaged the crowd effortlessly. Janne Björkroth on keyboards and backing vocals, Joona Björkroth on lead guitar and backing vocals, Eero Sipilä on bass and backing vocals, Juuso Soinio on rhythm guitar, and Pyry Vikki on drums created a sonic storm that matched Noora’s intensity.

Each band member brought their unique flair to the performance. Janne’s keyboard melodies added depth to the music, while Joona’s guitar solos were nothing short of spectacular. Eero’s basslines provided a solid foundation, and Juuso’s rhythm guitar added an extra layer of power. Pyry’s drumming was relentless, driving the band’s energy to new heights. The highlight of their set was undoubtedly the creation of the first circle pit of the tour, a testament to their ability to ignite the crowd.

The interaction between Battle Beast and their fans was electric. Noora’s banter and charismatic stage presence kept the audience engaged between songs. It was a true metal party, and the fans were more than willing participants. The energy in the room was palpable, as Battle Beast’s infectious enthusiasm matched that of their dedicated followers. It was a night where the line between the band and the audience blurred, creating a sense of unity and shared passion for the music.

In this fiery performance, Battle Beast didn’t just play songs; they crafted an experience. Their setlist, including tracks like “Circus of Doom,” “Straight to the Heart,” “Eye of the Storm,” and “Wings of Light,” was a rollercoaster ride of power and emotion. Battle Beast left a lasting impression at Webster Hall, solidifying their status as a band to watch in the metal scene.

Setlist –

Circus of Doom
Straight to the Heart
Eye of the Storm
Where Angels Fear to Fly
Wings of Light
Eden
Master of Illusion
King for a Day

Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived as Kamelot took the stage, and it was well worth the wait. Tommy Karevik, the lead vocalist, delivered a performance that could only be described as otherworldly. His vocals soared to incredible heights, backed by the masterful guitar work of Thomas Youngblood. Sean Tibbetts on bass, Oliver Palotai on keys, and Alex Landenburg on drums provided the solid foundation for the band’s symphonic metal sound.

The chemistry within Kamelot was palpable, and it reflected in their tight performance. Each member complemented the other seamlessly, creating a sonic tapestry that enveloped the audience. Melissa Bonny’s guest appearance added a new dimension to their sound, with her melodic and harsh screams reaching deep into the soul.

A highlight of the night was of course the performance of “New Babylon” which offers an incredibly poignant message and is a resounding call to action. It urges us to challenge the status quo, embrace our own truths, and resist the allure of conformity. This anthemic and powerful song becomes a declaration of defiance and a symbol of hope for those who seek change in a world where truth can be obscured by these destructive forces. Melissa’s vocals are simply astonishing here as well, especially when her harsh vocals offer a resounding “All is burning, deep is the abyss. A storm is coming, feel the serpent’s kiss. Brace for impact, sheilds to form a wall. By the hands of the small every giant must fall.”

The moment during “Song for Jolee” when the lights dimmed, and the venue was bathed in the glow of cell flashlights was a poignant and beautiful experience. It transformed what was just moments earlier a raucous mosh pit into a sea of humanity swaying together in a shared moment of musical transcendence.

Kamelot’s interaction with the crowd was a testament to their connection with their fans. Tommy’s heartfelt messages between songs created an intimate atmosphere, making the audience feel like they were part of something special. The band’s energy was infectious, and the audience responded with unwavering enthusiasm. As they played hits like “The Great Pandemonium” and “Sacrimony (Angel of Afterlife)”, the crowd sang along with passion, creating a sense of unity that resonated throughout the venue.

In this grand finale, Kamelot didn’t just perform; they transported the audience to a realm of emotion and power. Their music was a journey, and the fans were willing travelers. Webster Hall witnessed not just a concert, but a musical spectacle that will be etched in the memory of everyone fortunate enough to have been there. Kamelot’s performance was a testament to the enduring power of metal music to unite, inspire, and elevate the human spirit.

Setlist: