Reverb in Reading, Pennsylvania, was the stage for a night of theatrical and electrifying performances as AVATAR brought their “Great Metal Circus” tour to town, supported by the dynamic acts of Conquer Divide and Oxymorrons. The evening was a spectacle of high-energy performances, captivating theatrics, and a powerful display of modern metal.
The night opened with Conquer Divide, an all-female metalcore band that wasted no time in setting an intense tone for the evening. From the first notes of “Atonement,” the band showcased their impressive blend of melodic vocals and fierce screams, led by frontwoman Kiarely Castillo. The band’s intricate guitar work and pounding rhythms were on full display in tracks like “Nightmares” and “welcome2paradise,” engaging the audience and starting the night with a surge of energy. Their set was a potent mix of aggression and melody, leaving the crowd eager for more.
Next up was Oxymorrons, a genre-blending band from Queens, New York, known for their unique fusion of hip-hop and rock. Their performance was a whirlwind of energy and charisma, with frontmen Demi and KI delivering rapid-fire lyrics and engaging the crowd with infectious enthusiasm. Songs like “Justice” and “Green Vision” highlighted their ability to seamlessly merge heavy riffs with urban beats, creating a sound that was both fresh and electrifying. Oxymorrons’ high-octane set not only warmed up the crowd but also brought a unique and refreshing diversity to the evening’s lineup.
As the stage was set for the headliner, the anticipation in the air was palpable. AVATAR, the Swedish metal outfit known for their theatrical performances, took the stage with a flourish. Opening with “Dance Devil Dance,” the band immediately captivated the audience with their elaborate costumes and high-energy performance. Frontman Johannes Eckerström commanded the stage with his charismatic presence and versatile vocal delivery, switching effortlessly between guttural growls and melodic singing.
The setlist was a thrilling journey through AVATAR’s discography, featuring fan favorites like “Hail the Apocalypse” and “The Eagle Has Landed.” Each song was accompanied by a mesmerizing visual spectacle, complete with dramatic lighting and intricate stage props that transformed Reverb into a true metal circus. The band’s musicianship was impeccable, with guitarists Jonas Jarlsby and Tim Öhrström delivering blistering solos and heavy riffs that kept the crowd headbanging throughout the night.
A standout moment of the concert was the performance of “Tower,” a track that showcased the band’s ability to blend theatrics with powerful music. Eckerström’s dramatic gestures and the band’s synchronized movements added a layer of intensity that was both thrilling and immersive. AVATAR proved once again why they are one of the most exciting live acts in the metal scene today, delivering a performance that was as visually captivating as it was musically powerful.
AVATAR
Oxymorrons
