with Wolfrik and Valyria
The Studio
July 26th, 2014
Opening band Valyria took the stage to an already packed venue. Playing a style described as melodic death metal meets power metal, they played a decent opening set. Wolfrik, apparently playing their first show, sounded alright but were not really to my liking. With the venue already reaching nearly unbearable temperatures, I found myself outside trying to catch some air and cool down. The last time I was at The Studio, I nearly froze and this time I found myself dripping sweat without even entering the pit.
Nevertheless, Mongol arrived onstage to an enthusiastic reception. Rightfully so as this particular night was the CD release party for their newest album, Chosen By Tengri. Outfitted in brand new costumes, which looked fantastic, they debuted several new tracks. Mongol always manages to play an energetic show and this evening was no different. This is a band that has continuously improved live, offering high spirited, well-executed shows. Vocalist Tev Tengri masterfully energized the crowd with his enthusiasm spreading throughout the venue while somehow not succumbing to the effects of the heat and humidity present.
Having listened to the new album before it’s official release, I found that the new songs fit seamlessly with the old, crafting a tight set. Fan favorite “Eekum Bokum” incited a pit worthy of any good folk metal show. If the CD release party was any indication, metal heads at the upcoming Noise Metal Festival (taking place later this month) in Mongolia are in for a treat.
Many of the audience members, having just clearly enjoyed Mongol, seemed especially stoked to see Nekrogoblikon in a somewhat exclusive performance. Having heard nothing but praise but never having listened to more than a song or two, I was anticipating being able to check out their set. It certainly didn’t disappoint, proving to be entertaining and fun. ‘Mascot’ Jon Goblikon was out in full force, interacting with the crowd, providing comedic moments and even inviting local metal head, model and performer Lylia Chorosive onstage to goblin shimmy. If you are looking for a band that takes themselves entirely too seriously, I would not recommend Nekrogoblikon. Otherwise, if you enjoy having fun at a show or you just like goblins, they are worth checking out.
Despite the nauseating heat, humidity and the resulting inevitable stench of a bunch of metal heads promptly sweating out every drop of beer previously consumed, this show proved to be a pretty good way to spend a Saturday evening.
