Ryan Murray | Co-Owner | Chief Editor | Contributor | Photographer
r.m.music84@gmail.com
On Sunday, June 2nd, NYC’s Gramercy Theater was the venue for a historic night in power metal history. Battle Beast, the power metal titans from Finland, concluded their first-ever headlining tour in North America with a show that left fans exhilarated and emotional. This final stop was not only a culmination of their groundbreaking tour but also a celebration filled with high energy and playful shenanigans. Touring in support was Blackbriar from The Netherlands, who also made their North American debut. The night was unforgettable, filled with electrifying performances, crowd interactions, and memorable pranks that added a unique charm to the event.
Blackbriar, hailing from the Netherlands, consists of Zora Cock on vocals, René Boxem on drums, Bart Winters on lead guitar, Robin Koezen on rhythm guitar, Ruben Wijga on keyboards, and Siebe Sol Sijpkens on bass.
From the moment they took the stage, their energy was both impressive and infectious. As the lights dimmed, the venue erupted in roars, and Blackbriar kicked off the evening with an intense performance. Their musicianship was nothing short of incredible, with haunting and transcending melodies that captivated the audience. Zora Cock’s ethereal and mysterious vocals added a beautiful layer to their sound, complemented by the band’s powerful guitar leads and rhythmic precision.
Bart Winters’ lead guitar work was particularly noteworthy, blending technical proficiency with emotional depth, creating solos that were both intricate and soul-stirring. Robin Koezen’s rhythm guitar provided a solid backbone, ensuring each song had a rich, full sound. René Boxem’s drumming was tight and dynamic, driving the band’s energy forward and keeping the audience engaged. Ruben Wijga’s keyboards added a layer of atmospheric depth, enhancing the band’s ethereal soundscapes, while Siebe Sol Sijpkens’ bass lines anchored the music, adding a deep resonance that was felt throughout the venue.
Blackbriar’s setlist was a journey through their unique soundscapes, featuring songs like “Crimson Faces,” “I’d Rather Burn,” and “Far Distant Land.” Each track was met with enthusiastic applause and cheers from the crowd, who were visibly moved by the band’s performance. Other notable songs included “The Séance,” “Forever and a Day,” and “Arms of the Ocean,” each offering a different glimpse into Blackbriar’s diverse musical range. Their performance of “Selkie,” “Deadly Diminuendo,” “Lilith Be Gone,” and “Cicada” further solidified their reputation as a band capable of creating an otherworldly experience.
The set closed with “Until Eternity,” during which Battle Beast’s crew took the opportunity to flood the stage with balloons, fake money, and a bubble machine, adding a playful twist to the already magical night.
The synergy between Blackbriar and the audience was palpable. The band’s ability to transport the audience to another realm through their music was truly remarkable. Their entire set transcended a mere musical performance; it was an immersive experience that left the audience wanting more. The playful pranks, including the band member’s mic stands adorned with rubber chickens and Battle Beast members dressed in humorous outfits, only added to the night’s entertainment. It was clear that the camaraderie between the bands and the fans was strong, making this tour finale an event to remember.
Battle Beast, hailing from Helsinki, Finland, is comprised of Noora Louhimo on lead vocals, Juuso Soinio on rhythm guitar, Pyry Vikki on drums, Eero Sipilä on bass and backing vocals, Janne Björkroth on keyboards and backing vocals, and Joona Björkroth on lead guitar and backing vocals. As the lights dimmed for the final performance of the night, the energy in the Gramercy Theater reached a fever pitch. The crowd erupted in deafening applause as each member of Battle Beast took their place on stage. From the outset, it was evident that this performance was going to be special. The band’s chemistry with their fans was unmatched, and their ability to engage and energize the audience was unparalleled.
Noora Louhimo’s commanding presence and powerful vocals were the highlight of the night, effortlessly transitioning from soaring high notes to gritty, intense lows. Juuso Soinio’s rhythm guitar provided a robust and consistent foundation, driving the band’s heavy sound. Pyry Vikki’s drumming was both precise and thunderous, propelling each song forward with relentless energy. Eero Sipilä’s bass playing was solid and resonant, his backing vocals adding depth to the band’s harmonies. Janne Björkroth’s keyboard skills brought a melodic and symphonic element to the music, while Joona Björkroth’s lead guitar work was nothing short of spectacular, with solos that were both technically impressive and emotionally captivating.
As the band moved through their set, the crowd became increasingly immersed, eventually pulsing together like a single, palpable heartbeat. Battle Beast’s setlist was a power-packed collection of their greatest hits and fan favorites. They opened with “Circus of Doom,” setting the tone for a night of high-energy performances. Songs like “Straight to the Heart,” “Familiar Hell,” and “Armageddon” kept the audience on their feet, singing along with every word. The emotional resonance of “Place That We Call Home” and the anthemic “No More Hollywood Endings” showcased the band’s versatility and ability to connect with their audience on a deeper level. Eero Sipilä’s rendition of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” by Elton John added a surprising and delightful twist to the set, highlighting the band’s playful side.
Blackbriar also seized the opportunity to join in the fun, appearing dressed for the beach several times during Battle Beast’s set. Zora even took an inflatable raft, jumped into the crowd from the stage, and crowd-surfed her way through the pit, while Siebe approached Noora, leisurely nibbling on an evocative cluster of grapes.
As the night progressed, the energy in the venue only grew. Tracks like “Where Angels Fear to Fly,” “Bastard Son of Odin,” and “Russian Roulette” had the crowd headbanging and chanting in unison. The instrumental performances of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “The Imperial March” were met with enthusiastic cheers, further showcasing the band’s musicianship. The set concluded with powerful renditions of “Master of Illusion,” “King For a Day,” and “Beyond the Burning Skies,” leaving the audience in awe. The band took their bows to the sound of the Top Gun Anthem, a fitting end to an epic night.
The tour finale was not just a concert; it was a celebration of music, camaraderie, and shared experiences. Both bands demonstrated their incredible talent and ability to engage with their audience, creating memories that will last a lifetime. This tour has undoubtedly paved the way for more North American headlining tours for Battle Beast and highlighted the potential of international bands like Blackbriar in the US market. However, with the increasing cost of visas, which have risen by 250% as of April 1st, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for international bands to tour the US. This issue needs to be addressed to ensure that bands from around the world can continue to share their music with American audiences.
Battle Beast and Blackbriar’s performances at the Gramercy Theater were nothing short of spectacular. The energy, musicianship, and camaraderie on display were a testament to the power of live music. As both bands continue to grow their presence in North America, it’s essential to support these international artists and ensure they can continue to bring their incredible shows to the US. The night was a perfect blend of powerful music, playful antics, and heartfelt moments, making it a truly unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance.
Ethereal Metal 
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