21 June 2024

3 mins read

Photography: Eva van den Bosch

Written by: Glenn van den Bosch

what's happening with Five Finger Death Punch

CONCERT REVIEW: Amsterdam AFAS Live Shaken by Five Finger Death Punch & Ice Nine Kills

In the midst of what can only be imagined as a fantastically chaotic summer of shows, Five Finger Death Punch delivered an unforgettable performance at Amsterdam’s AFAS Live, accompanied by the very special guest Ice Nine Kills. This summer, both bands are touring with Metallica across numerous countries and dates, while also headlining their own shows on off-days, such as the one witnessed in Amsterdam. The evening saw approximately 5000 fans revelling in a powerful selection of Five Finger Death Punch‘s greatest hits and fan favourites, but the night started with the thrilling theatrics of Ice Nine Kills, who set the stage on fire with their unique brand of horror-themed metal.

Ice Nine Kills have emerged as one of the most exciting bands in the alternative scene, steadily rising since the release of The Silver Scream in 2018. Their live shows have evolved alongside their growing popularity, reaching new heights on this European tour. Each song from their two The Silver Scream albums, inspired by popular horror movies, was brought to life on stage with band members and actors re-enacting scenes from the movies. This dramatic flair has expanded with every tour, and this performance was no exception. Over their 45-minute set, they captivated the audience with nine songs, including fan favourites Hip To Be Scared, Rainy Day and the latest addition, Meat & Greet.

What an incredible band! We eagerly anticipate seeing them live again in just a week at Jera On Air.

Five Finger Death Punch‘s last headliner show in the Netherlands was on June 20, 2022, at the RTM Stage in Rotterdam, where they pulled out all the stops with a visually stunning performance. This Amsterdam show, however, had a different focus. The iconic 8-symbol, depicting a snake eating its own tail, graced the backdrop while lights and lasers enhanced the musical experience. The band members were visibly comfortable on stage, with frontman Ivan Moody frequently engaging with the front-row audience. During the songs, a plethora of guitar picks and bracelets were tossed into the crowd, adding to the connection between the band and their fans. Notably, Moody spotted several kids in the front row and invited a father with his two kids up on stage to watch the show, receiving special attention throughout.

Setlist-wise, Five Finger Death Punch made sure no era was left out. Their set was a perfect blend of new and old tracks, ensuring that every fan had something to enjoy. Unlike many bands that focus on newer material while on tour, Five Finger Death Punch’s current tour isn’t tied to any new release. This allowed them to celebrate their entire discography and pay homage to their long-time fans.

Overall, Five Finger Death Punch and Ice Nine Kills delivered a night of phenomenal music, leaving fans eager for more. You can get a glimpse of what the show looked like via the gallery right below.

Ice Nine Kills:

Five Finger Death Punch:

20 June 2024

3 mins read

Photography: Eva van den Bosch

Written by: Glenn van den Bosch

what's happening with Rammstein

CONCERT REVIEW: Rain or Shine, Rammstein Deliver An Unforgettable Live Experience

Approximately a year after witnessing our first-ever Rammstein show in the Stadspark in Groningen, this year, the band played two shows in the Goffertpark in Nijmegen. Unfortunately, unlike last year, the weather was far worse, with a lot of rain throughout the day turning the grounds into a mud pool. Despite the bad weather, tens of thousands of fans came out to witness the Rammstein spectacle. Even though we had seen it only once before, the show felt familiar as the set-up remained largely, or completely rather, unchanged from the previous year.

When comparing Rammstein to other bands, it becomes clear that their live show has reached a pinnacle within their genre. Unlike newer bands whose shows evolve over time, Rammstein’s performance has a sense of finality, as if they have perfected the art of the live show. This may be attributed to their extensive experience and age, which have honed their performance to near perfection.

Our research into Rammstein’s set-up revealed that it takes over 80 trucks to transport their stage equipment. This impressive logistical feat is further highlighted by the staggering cost of the stage set-up, which reportedly amounts to six million dollars. The show is a sensory overload, featuring an endless stream of special effects, pyrotechnics on the pillars, and even on the band members’ instruments. For the final songs, frontman Till Lindemann dons a device on his back that spews flames, a signature move that never fails to thrill the audience. The encore sees Lindemann emerging from the stage, flames shooting from his back, creating a spectacle that, while familiar, never disappoints. Fireworks, lasers, CO2 cannons—Rammstein truly brings everything to the table. The intricate setup takes days to assemble, underscoring the immense effort that goes into each performance.

Beyond the impressive visual spectacle, Rammstein’s live performances are distinguished by their remarkable sound quality and meticulous precision. The band’s distinctive vocal style, deeply rooted in their German heritage, infuses their music with a unique and captivating flavor. Lead singer Till Lindemann’s deep, resonant voice exudes a formidable sense of power and authority, which enhances the immersive experience for the audience, enveloping them in the band’s raw, intense energy. The setlist features an array of hits that traverse their entire musical journey—including fan favourites like Du Hast, Deutschland, Sonne, and Engel. A few songs before the encore, Rammstein took to the B-stage halfway across the field to perform a beautiful piano-infused rendition of Engel. When it was time to get back to the mainstage, the band members took a boat through the crowd, giving the fans in the feuerzone some unique crowd engagement.

Last year, I suggested that the predictability of Rammstein’s shows might become dull for those who have seen many of their performances. However, after witnessing the show for a second time, I realize I may have been wrong. The familiarity of the performance seems inevitable given the immense planning, time, and money involved. When considering all the factors, it becomes clear that Rammstein’s live show is perhaps the best nu-metal experience money can buy in terms of production value. Rammstein’s live shows are iconic, and for good reason—they have mastered the art of live performances, creating an unforgettable experience for fans.

Rammstein @ Goffertpark, Nijmegen — #image_title

14 June 2024

4 mins read

Photography: Eva van den Bosch

Written by: Glenn van den Bosch

what's happening with Thirty Seconds To Mars

CONCERT REVIEW: Thirty Seconds To Mars’ Glorious Return To Amsterdam

Last night, Thirty Seconds to Mars made a triumphant return to The Netherlands after a significant absence. Originally slated to perform at the Ziggo Dome earlier this year, scheduling conflicts necessitated a rescheduled show at AFAS Live, a more intimate yet equally vibrant venue on the same boulevard. Despite the change in location, the excitement and anticipation were palpable among the fans.

The evening kicked off with an extraordinary performance by Jagwar Twin, the opening act for the night. Jagwar Twin, led by the charismatic Roy English, has been gaining significant momentum since their hit ‘Bad Feeling (Oompa Loompa)’ took the music scene by storm last year, amassing millions of streams. We had the privilege of interviewing Roy English before the show, so stay tuned for an in-depth feature on that soon!

Jagwar Twin’s set began in a mystical fashion with English donning a mask and carrying incense, setting the tone with the ethereal track ‘The Circle’. This dramatic entrance captivated the audience, and as the mask came off after the first two songs, the band maintained a high-energy performance that kept the crowd engaged. Their half-hour set flew by, culminating in powerful renditions of fan favourites ‘Happy Face’ and ‘Bad Feeling (Oompa Loompa)’. The enthusiasm from the crowd during these tracks was a testament to the band’s growing popularity and the infectious nature of their music.

Throughout their set, English took moments between songs to share anecdotes and connect with the audience on a personal level. This connection was particularly strong with the early-arriving fans who eagerly responded to English’s charismatic presence. Although some attendees near the bar seemed more engrossed in their conversations, the overall response to Jagwar Twin was overwhelmingly positive. We were thoroughly impressed by English’s vocal prowess and the band’s dynamic performance. For those planning to attend any upcoming Thirty Seconds to Mars shows, we highly recommend arriving early to catch Jagwar Twin’s set.

Following a somewhat lengthy 50-minute interlude, the enthusiasm in AFAS Live returned as the lights dimmed. Thirty Seconds to Mars teased the audience with a countdown from 100 to 30, heightening the anticipation before dramatically crashing onto the stage. The band opened with ‘Up in the Air’, instantly igniting the enthusiasm of approximately 5,000 fans. Jared Leto, the enigmatic frontman, frequently invited fans on stage to dance and sing along, creating a uniquely interactive and immersive experience that blurred the lines between performers and audience.

In addition to their engaging crowd interactions, Thirty Seconds to Mars delivered a visually stunning performance. The show was a sensory feast, featuring a massive triangle screen with embedded lighting strips, showers of confetti, fireworks, and an array of pyrotechnics that ensured a truly spectacular entertainment experience. Almost every song was complemented by these visual effects, enhancing the emotional impact of the performance.

The setlist was carefully curated to cater to the loyalty of longtime fans. While the band showcased two songs from their latest album, “It’s the End of the World but It’s a Beautiful Day,” the majority of the setlist consisted of older, beloved hits that have stood the test of time. Classics like ‘This Is War’, ‘The Kill’, and ‘Kings & Queens’ were performed with fervor and met with ecstatic reactions from the audience. These anthems, accompanied by impressive visual effects, underscored the band’s ability to create powerful, memorable live music experiences.

Thirty Seconds to Mars demonstrated their enduring appeal and ability to captivate audiences with a show that was truly memorable. From their eccentric outfits to the dazzling special effects and exceptional crowd interaction, this tour offers everything a fan could hope for. The band’s energy, creativity, and commitment to delivering an extraordinary live performance were evident throughout the night.

For those who missed the show, we have captured some visuals from both performances. Be sure to check them out and let us know if you plan to attend any of the remaining tour dates. This is a concert experience not to be missed!

Jagwar Twin:

Thirty Seconds To Mars:

8 June 2024

2 mins read

Photography: Eva van den Bosch

Written by: Glenn van den Bosch

what's happening with Dogstar

ROCK AM RING 2024: Dogstar Bring The Storytelling Rock To Germany

It’s time to buckle up and dive headfirst into the world of one of Europe’s biggest celebrations of rock & metal music. Rock Am Ring 2024, where music enthusiasts from all walks of life unite under the banner of rock ‘n’ roll. Join us on this extraordinary journey as we witness the power of rock, metal and everything in between in all its glory. Rock Am Ring 2024 promises to be a monumental chapter in the festival’s storied history and you’ll find all the coverage you need right here at Strife Mag.

Halfway through the day, the band Dogstar played the Mandora stage, which is the second stage of the festival. Even though the timeslot and the stage, a lot of people came out to see the band perform. For anyone who might be wondering the same, it might have to do with who their bassist is: movie star Keanu Reeves. Dogstar are a serious band, consisting of 3 friends who, according to their bio, are storytellers through their rock music and came back 23 years after releasing their debut album with the brand new effort Somewhere Between The Power Lines and Palm Trees.

Their sound, blending alternative rock with a touch of grunge, resonated well with the festival-goers. The band’s performance felt both polished and genuine. Vocalist and guitarist Bret Domrose’s vocals were strong and emotive, and his guitar work was impressive, providing a perfect balance to Reeves‘ steady basslines and Robert Mailhouse’s dynamic drumming.

Check out some of the images of the band’s epic performance right below and let us know if you are going to see Dogstar live during the festival season. Stay tuned to all our Rock Am Ring coverage by following our socials over on X, Instagram and Facebook.

Dogstar:

10 June 2024

2 mins read

Photography: Eva van den Bosch

Written by: Glenn van den Bosch

what's happening with BABYMETAL

ROCK AM RING 2024: BABYMETAL’s Standout Performance & ‘Surprise’ Collab

Halfway through the evening on the second day of Rock Am Ring, the truly unique BABYMETAL took the stage on the Mandora stage. Earlier that day, the trio already made an appearance during Electric Callboy’s set, where they joined the band on stage for the live performance of their brand new collaborative single RATATATA. Little did we know that later that evening, Electric Callboy would also join BABYMETAL during their own performance to play the collaborative song once more.

BABYMETAL’s performance at Rock Am Ring 2024 was a standout show that with impressive instrumentals, choreography, vocals and pyrotechnics. Known for their unique blend of J-pop and heavy metal, the Japanese trio brought their signature “kawaii metal” style to one of Europe’s biggest rock festivals, delivering a performance that was both visually and sonically spectacular.

The set began with a burst of energy as BABYMETAL took the stage to thunderous applause. The crowd was immediately captivated by their theatrical entrance and the intense choreography that accompanied their powerful music.

The production values were top-notch, with impressive pyrotechnics, elaborate costumes, and a dynamic light show that enhanced the overall experience. BABYMETAL’s ability to seamlessly blend catchy pop melodies with heavy metal riffs made their set accessible to a diverse audience, bridging the gap between genres in a way few bands can achieve.

Overall, BABYMETAL’s performance at Rock Am Ring 2024 was a triumph, solidifying their reputation as one of the most innovative and entertaining acts in the rock and metal scene today. For those who witnessed it, the show was an unforgettable highlight of the festival, for which some visuals can be seen in the gallery right below.

Check out some of the images of the band’s epic performance right below and let us know if you are going to see BABYMETAL live during the festival season. Stay tuned to all our Rock Am Ring coverage by following our socials over on X, Instagram and Facebook.

Babymetal:

10 June 2024

2 mins read

Photography: Eva van den Bosch

Written by: Glenn van den Bosch

what's happening with Underoath

ROCK AM RING 2024: Underoath Are Exceptional On Orbit Stage

After a few years of absence on the European festival circuit, Underoath made their triumphant return on Rock Am Ring this weekend. Last time around, the band played on the Utopia stage, which is the main stage. This time, however, the band played the smallest stage on the festival in the early evening while Billy Talent played the main stage.

Billy Talent’s popularity in Germany is astonishing, but luckily there were still a whole bunch of people who opted to watch Underoath perform live instead. One of the major highlights was their performance of the very popular A Boy Brushed Red Living in Black and White. As soon as the opening chords rang out, the audience erupted in cheers, and the band delivered the song with a raw intensity that captured the emotional depth of the track. Spencer Chamberlain‘s vocals were particularly gripping, seamlessly transitioning between melodic lines and ferocious screams. His singing voice stood out during the entire show.

Another standout moment was the performance of Reinventing Your Exit. The crowd’s anticipation was palpable, and when the iconic intro began, it was met with an overwhelming wave of enthusiasm. The song’s infectious chorus had everyone singing along, creating a powerful connection between the band and the audience.

Underoath’s set was a well-crafted mix of their classic hits and newer material, showcasing their evolution as a band while staying true to their roots. Even if their popularity in Germany has fallen a bit behind, Underoath are exceptional live. Their earlier songs have stood the test of time and their musicianship continues to impress.

Check out some of the images of the band’s epic performance right below and let us know if you are going to see Underoath live during the festival season. Stay tuned to all our Rock Am Ring coverage by following our socials over on X, Instagram and Facebook.