The evening began with Frozen Soul, a rising force in the death metal scene. The Texan quintet set the stage with their chilling, frostbitten sound, delivering tracks from their debut album, Crypt of Ice. The crowd was immediately drawn in by their relentless energy and brutal riffs. Songs like “Encased in Ice” and “Wraith of Death” showcased their ability to blend old-school death metal with a modern edge, making a lasting impression on the audience and warming them up for the chaos to come.
Next up was Obituary, the legendary death metal pioneers from Florida. As soon as they launched into their opening track, “Redneck Stomp,” the energy in the room surged. Frontman John Tardy’s guttural vocals and the band’s crushing rhythms resonated through the Fillmore, with classics like “Slowly We Rot” and “Cause of Death” igniting a frenzy in the mosh pit. Their set was a testament to their enduring influence and mastery of the genre, leaving fans both old and new in awe of their performance.
Cannibal Corpse followed, bringing their iconic brand of brutal death metal to the stage. From the first note of “Scourge of Iron,” it was clear that the band was ready to deliver an unrelenting assault. Vocalist George “Corpsegrinder” Fisher’s legendary windmill headbanging and ferocious growls commanded the stage, while the rest of the band played with surgical precision. Tracks like “Evisceration Plague” and “Hammer Smashed Face” were highlights, with the latter inciting the biggest mosh pit of the night. Cannibal Corpse’s performance was a brutal, visceral experience that left the crowd exhilarated and breathless.
As the anticipation built for the headliners, the stage was set with Viking-themed props and imagery. Amon Amarth, the Swedish melodic death metal titans, took the stage amidst thunderous applause and chants. Opening with “The Pursuit of Vikings,” they immediately immersed the audience in their epic saga. Frontman Johan Hegg, wielding a massive drinking horn, commanded the stage with his powerful presence and booming voice.
The band’s setlist was a perfect blend of old favorites and newer anthems, including “Guardians of Asgaard,” “Raise Your Horns,” and “Tattered Banners and Blood Flags.” Each song was accompanied by dramatic visuals and stage effects, including smoke, fire, and even a giant serpent during “Twilight of the Thunder God.” The crowd sang along passionately, their voices merging with Hegg’s in a powerful display of unity and metal camaraderie.
A standout moment was the performance of “Shield Wall,” during which the band urged the crowd to form their own shield wall, creating a sea of raised fists and roaring voices. The energy and enthusiasm were palpable, making it clear why Amon Amarth is considered one of the best live acts in metal today.
Amon Amarth
Cannibal Corpse
Obituary
Frozen Soul
