Trivium, Bleed From Within & Orbit Culture - NX Newcastle 31/08/23

Stephen Cummings ( BeardBo & GHUK)

(Image: © Stephen Cummings )

Orbit Culture

Kicking off tonight’s sold-out show at the NX Newcastle is none other than Swedish Melodic Death Metallers Orbit Culture and with no messing about started off with “North Star of Nija”

The crowd roars in approval as the opening notes of "North Star of Nija" blast through the speakers. The energy in the room is palpable as Orbit Culture launches into their set with full force. The stage lights flash in time with the music, illuminating the band members as they headbang and thrash their instruments. with a powerful performance, blending melodic riffs with death metal guitar to create an unforgettable sound. Their music is captivating with a subtle harmony that keeps you engaged and excited for what's next. Niklas Karlsson's performance was as engaging as it was entertaining.

Throughout the show, he fervently encouraged the crowd to let loose and headbang to the music. "Newcastle, you guys are wild!" he shouted, further fuelling the already excited audience. The palpable connection between the band and the audience was noticeable, with both parties fully immersed in the emotionally charged maelstrom of sound. What a fantastic way to kick off tonight's show!

Bleed from Within

Up Next was Scottish Metalcore/Groove Metallers Bleed from Within. The energy of the band was infectious, and the crowd was immediately brought to life as they launched into their heavy riffs and powerful vocals. The mix of metalcore and groove metal created a sound that was both brutal and melodic, and the musicianship was top notch.

Lead vocalist Scott Kennedy was a force to be reckoned with, commanding the stage, and engaging the audience with his intense delivery. Guitarists Craig Gowan and Steven Jones were equally impressive, delivering bone-crushing riffs and blazing solos with ease.

Even without the presence of bass player Davie Provan, the band was tight and cohesive, showcasing their impressive musicianship and chemistry. The audience was clearly impressed with Bleed from Within, and they left the stage to thunderous applause.

Overall, Bleed from Within delivered an incredible performance that was both heavy and melodic, showcasing their unique blend of metalcore and groove metal.

Trivium

Trivium's headlining act needs no introduction as they are already well-established in the metal universe. The first half of the show included "In the Court of the Dragon," "Down from the Sky," and "Becoming the Dragon." Vocalist Matt Heafy gave a shoutout to their 15-year-old album "Shogun" and played three more songs from the record: “Poison, the Knife or the Noose,” “Kirisute Gomen,” and “Torn Between Scylla and Charybdis.”

During the show, two people collapsed from what i can tell was from heat exhaustion but Trivium acted quickly by getting them medical assistance and afterwards the Security started to hand out water to try and keep people cool and hydrated.  Matt gave an update towards the end of the show that both individuals were okay to which everyone in attendance gave a standing ovation. We also must give a big shoutout to Paolo Gregoletto on bass, who continued with the tour even after undergoing hernia surgery. I can only imagine how difficult that had to of been.

At the end of the night, Matt announced that after the UK run of shows, Trivium will be taking a break. However, they hinted that they will be back in 2025 to celebrate "Ascendancy's" 20th anniversary.

Trivium concluded the night with an epic performance of “A Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation,” “Capsizing the Sea,” and “In Waves.”

Overall, Trivium consistently delivers exceptional stage performances, and this time was no exception. Their incredible fan base is a testament to their talent and hard work, and their guitar solos were some of the most impressive in the metal scene.

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