CONCERT REVIEW: Korn Celebrate 30 Years With Sold-Out Amsterdam Crowd

Thirty years ago, Korn changed the face of music forever with the release of their self-titled album, pioneering the nu-metal genre and bringing it into the mainstream. Little did anyone know that three decades later, both the band and this groundbreaking album would remain as relevant as ever, continuing to draw massive crowds at arena shows around the world. Last night, Korn brought their powerful live performance to Amsterdam, where they played to 6,000 ecstatic fans in a celebration of their expansive discography.

With a catalogue as extensive as Korn’s, curating a fresh setlist for every tour must be a challenge, but the band nailed it this time around. The setlist had something for everyone, including more than just a nod to their beginnings with four songs from their 1994 self-titled debut album, making it the most played album of the evening. The live renditions of Blind, Clown, Divine, and Shoots and Ladders served as a reminder of the enduring popularity of their early material, with fans erupting into excitement from the very first note.

Korn didn’t stop there. They carefully selected one or two tracks from each of their albums, ensuring that their setlist covered the full spectrum of their career. Of course, no Korn show would be complete without the live performances of classics like Freak on a Leash and Coming Undone, both of which made it onto the 17-song setlist to the delight of the crowd.

In between songs, Korn allowed for moments of spontaneity and fun, with drummer Ray Luzier delivering an impressive drum solo and engaging in a playful instrumental battle with bassist Ra Diaz. While there wasn’t much talking throughout the 1-hour and 45-minute show, these moments of musical interaction provided a unique form of crowd engagement that kept the energy high.

As for the production, Korn brought along some impressive visual aids. The stage was filled with screens and props, including a massive screen that extended from the very edge of the stage towards the audience. When the metaphorical curtain dropped, these screens initially blinded the stage, only to reveal the iconic Korn logo, which was met with roaring applause. The screen then ascended to the roof of the venue, allowing the visuals portrayed behind the band to be projected across the entire stage, creating a dynamic and visually stunning experience we have not seen very often before.

In the end, Korn’s performance in Amsterdam was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of their legacy. As the final notes faded and the lights dimmed, the sense of enduring relevance and unwavering fan devotion was obvious. This tour is, besides being a musical spectacle, a testament to a band that continues to leave an indelible mark on the music world, 30 years strong and the best part is, there are no signs of slowing down. Their most recent album is only 2 years old, and we will eagerly anticipate whatever is next for Korn.

Below you’ll find some photos from the epic performance!

Glenn van den Bosch

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