Powerwolf - Explosive return to London!!!

****1/2

German Power Metal goes down a treat in London!!!

Powerwolf ****1/2 headlined The Roundhouse in Camden, London with support from Warkings, and they really did Rock the roof of the legendary venue. The German Power Metal giants delivered a one night only UK spectacular, as part of their now concluded 'Wolfsnächte' tour, which was truly a treat for the Metal hungry UK fans. They kicked off the set with 'Faster than the Flame', the opening song from their latest album 'Missa Cantorem II'. The song is fast, catchy and exciting, the perfect all rounder to get the crowd jumping.

They would go on to play four songs from that album throughout the night, along with many of their established classics. The crowd didn’t need much warming up, not only due to the heavy pyro work, but also because the supporting act Warkings, who took the fans by surprise and quickly swept them off their feet with an epic theatrical act, filled with banger tracks. A truly worthy opener for what would be an unforgettable night for UK Metalheads. Both Powerwolf and Warkings, are truly a match made in Heaven, or Hell, due to their similar styles in genre and performance, breathtaking stage design and outfits, worthy of the highest grossing blockbusters, and most importantly, the energy and passion for what they are doing.

Being a part of the photography crew of the event, I witnessed some of the backstage preparations that took place, and the attention to detail gives the most high end Broadway shows a run for their money. With some bands, it’s about the raw experience of just slapping on whatever dark clothing you have laying around and going out there to Rock, but with Powerwolf every element of their show is a sight to behold. That combined with their tight and masterful playing, makes them the true kings of their genre.

Another aspect of Powerwolf’s on stage presence which is worth mentioning is their connection to the crowd, which is like nothing else. The frontman of the band, Karsten Brill is professionally known as “Attila Dorn”, and didn’t miss the opportunity to shower the crowd with the infamous German humour during gaps in the songs. This really helped to connect him with the British audience, which I am sure will come back and see them next time they play.

His lighthearted banter always adds in relieving the atmosphere at a Powerwolf show, which is just what this London crowd needed on a cold Tuesday, after a long day’s work. The whole band was energetic and gave every drop of sweat for the fans, with special credits going to their keyboardist and flag-bearer Christian Jost, professionally known as “Falk Maria Schlegel”. His “supporting actor” personality truly brought a whole different feel to the evening, with many comedic and unscripted moments initiated by him.

That becomes even more impressive when you consider the valuable and important duties he has backstage, which include organization, touring, logistics and set design. Truly, a formidable asset to the band, and a job that I think most musicians would not want to do at the same time as playing. The band is truly an all rounder for any Metalhead who loves Power Metal and supports the European scene and is truly a must-see act! I even claim that they are a great gateway band for any new metalheads due to their melodic riffs, impressive look and friendly crowd interactions. Even if you find yourself a stranger to this kind of music, I recommend the band just for the theatrical experience they provide live, which truly makes it worth every penny. 

Review and Photos by Atanas Tanchovski (@Prodigy.of.Light)

Powerwolf - Setlist
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Faster than the Flame
Incense and Iron 
Cardinal Sin
Amen and Attack
Dancing with the Dead
Armata Strigoi
Beast of Gevaudan
Stossgebet
Demon's are a girl's best Friend
Fire and Forgive
Where the wild wolves have Gone
Sainted by the Storm
Army of the Night 
Blood for Blood (Faoladh)
Let there be Night
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Sanctified with Dynamite
We drink your Blood
Werewolves of Armenia

Check Out! the Video for 'My will be Done' Below...