Soen Ignites NYC’s Le Poisson Rouge w/ Their “Memorial” Tour

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

r.m.music84@gmail.com

Progressive metal quintet Soen returned to North America for their second headlining tour, this time in support of their latest album, “Memorial.” On Saturday May 11th, the NYC stop of the tour took place at the iconic Le Poisson Rouge, where fans eagerly packed in to experience a night of powerful and emotive music. Touring in support of Soen is the alternative progressive rock group, Trope.

Arriving at the venue early, I had the opportunity to interview Joel Ekelöf, Soen’s lead vocalist. Having previously interviewed Joel during Soen’s first US headlining tour in November 2022, it was great to be able to get his thoughts on their new album, as well as the overall Memorial tour that had a long leg in Europe, as well as South America before coming here.

After wrapping up the interview, I took a break at a nearby tea shop to relax and pass the time. The check-in process for my credentials was swift, and I made my way to the stage area. Le Poisson Rouge does not have a photo pit, so I joined the rest of the crowd, ready to experience the show up close with the fans.

Trope, hailing from Hollywood, Los Angeles, opened the evening at 7:00 PM. As the lights dimmed, guitarist Dave Thompson took the stage, followed by Juno-nominated vocalist Diana Studenberg. Despite performing as a duo for this tour, Trope’s performance was nothing short of phenomenal. The energy they brought to the stage was palpable, instantly electrifying the venue with their opening track, “Lambs.”

Thompson’s guitar work was exceptional. He didn’t just strum; he explored every inch of the fretboard, creating intricate and dynamic sounds. Diana Studenberg’s powerful vocals complemented his playing perfectly, filling the room with raw emotion and intensity. Their synergy was evident, and the crowd responded with enthusiastic applause and cheers.

Trope’s music clearly draws influences from iconic bands such as Tool, A Perfect Circle, Smashing Pumpkins, and Soundgarden. This blend of influences is evident in their intricate compositions and powerful delivery.

Their setlist included a mix of songs that showcased their range and complexity. Following “Lambs,” they played “Plateau,” “Surrogate,” “Breach,” “Planes,” “Seasons Change,” and “Pareidolia.” Each track demonstrated their ability to weave intricate melodies with complex rhythms and polyrhythms, creating a sound that was both sophisticated and dynamic.

A notable aspect of Trope’s performance was their use of complex time signatures. Playing in odd time signatures, such as 13/8, can be challenging for any band, but executing it with just an acoustic guitar and vocals is particularly impressive. And if the odd time signatures weren’t enough, throw in some polyrhythms, and the result, especially as an unbacked duo, was breathtaking. Thompson’s ability to keep precise time and maintain the intricate rhythms on his acoustic guitar showcased his exceptional skill and musicality. This technical prowess added a layer of depth to their performance, making the music both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.

Their synergy on stage was evident, creating a sound that felt much larger than just two people. The audience responded enthusiastically, with cheers and applause filling the venue. Their set clearly left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance, proving that even as a duo, they could deliver a powerful and memorable performance.

As the lights dimmed again, this time signaling Soen’s arrival on stage, anticipation crackled in the air, setting the scene for a captivating musical experience that was sure to transcend mere entertainment.

Their setlist, carefully curated to showcase their musical range and thematic depth, was a testament to their artistic evolution. Before taking the stage, the soul-stirring recording of Dylan Thomas’ “Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night” filled the place, igniting the excitement even more.

Throughout the performance, Soen effortlessly navigated through a diverse repertoire of songs, seamlessly transitioning between tracks like “Sincere,” a compelling ode to authenticity and self-discovery, and “Martyrs,” a compelling exploration of sacrifice and resilience. The band’s synergy was palpable, their collective energy forming an unbreakable bond with the audience, whose enthusiasm mirrored the band’s passion onstage.

Moments of introspective reflection were woven into the set with “Savia” and “Memorial,” where haunting melodies and poignant lyrics invited listeners into a shared space of contemplation and remembrance. The band’s technical mastery was on full display, with intricate guitar work, dynamic drumming, andl intricate bass lines adding layers of depth and emotion to each composition.

The mood took a daring turn with “Lascivious,” delving into darker themes that captivated the crowd with their provocative allure. This seamless fusion of light and shadow showcased Soen’s artistic versatility and their fearless exploration of musical boundaries.

The chemistry among the band members was undeniable, each contributing their unique talents to create a sonic tapestry that was both immersive and electrifying. Joel Ekelöf’s emotive vocals soared above the intricate instrumentation, guiding listeners through the emotional landscapes of each song.

Martin Lopez’s masterful drumming provided a solid foundation, while Zlatoyar Kobel’s bass work added a rich, resonant depth to the sound. Cody Ford and Lars Åhlund’s guitar work was nothing short of mesmerizing, with Ford’s leads standing out as particularly beautiful, adding a layer of enchantment to the sonic landscape.

As the night culminated in the encore featuring “Antagonist,” “Lunacy,” and “Violence,” the energy reached a fever pitch, leaving the audience exhilarated and craving more. It was more than just a concert—it was a shared journey of musical exploration and emotional resonance, a testament to the enduring power of Soen’s artistry and their profound impact on their listeners.

It’s evident that Soen’s elevation within the sphere of progressive metal is not just a matter of skill but of genuine connection and vulnerability to their audience. Their ability to craft songs that resonate on a deeply emotional level, coupled with their impeccable musicianship, has propelled them to ever-rapid popularity worldwide, and with incredibly just cause.

The Memorial world tour, with its electrifying performances across continents, stands as a testament to Soen’s growing influence and dedicated fanbase. Here in the states, it’s not merely a one or two time event but a milestone in their journey, likely marking the second of many more headlining tours in North America to come.

Be sure to catch Soen and Trope on the remainder of their tour! You aren’t going to want to miss it!