Fri Jun 10th - Thy Art Is Murder's "Back from the Gulag Tour", with co-headliners: After The Burial would make its stop in Chicago on Friday night. To accompany them as support on this explosive 32-date trip would be: Brand Of Sacrifice & Currents. The tour would find its way to one of the windy city's more popular venues, Chicago's House of Blues. The venue was established in 1996 and is close to the famous Navy Pier in downtown Chicago along the Chicago River. Since being opened, it has hosted a wide range of celebrities, including Buddy Guy, B.B. King, The Rolling Stones, and Prince, among many other notable performers. The location has a striking appearance, with bright blue external lights and Gothic-style construction that makes it appear smaller than it actually is from the outside. Inside, The House of Blues Chicago features a modestly sized main stage, standing room only, VIP boxes, as well as a number of bars and smaller performance spaces tucked away around the maze-like interior. Working your way through the crowd at near sold-out events in the 1,800 capacity venue, like this one, can range from very challenging to near-impossible at times. Folk art, blues memorabilia, and religious iconography are just a few examples of the Southern American history and culture-inspired décor that can be seen throughout the entire venue. On the right night, it's a fantastic venue to see a show in the city. Tonight would be one of those nights as Chicago showed up ready to mosh and support all these brilliant musicians.
Courtesy of House of Blues Chicago
Brand of Sacrifice is a Canadian deathcore band formed in 2018. At the time of the band's formation, the lineup included vocalist Kyle Anderson, guitarist Michael Leo Valeri, bassist Dallas Bricker, guitarist Liam Beeson, and drummer Robert Zalischi. After a change at drummer with James Knoerl holding down the kit for a short time, Rings of Saturn drummer Mike Caputo would be called upon to be the bands current drummer. Originally known as "The Afterimage", the band wasted no time in making their mark on the heavy music scene, united by a shared passion for extreme and technical music with the 2018 release of "The Interstice" EP. In 2019, Brand of Sacrifice released their first full-length album, "God Hand." This release demonstrated their proclivity for fusing brutal deathcore elements with intricate technicality, earning them acclaim for their distinct sound. Thematically, the album's focus on anime and Japanese video games added another layer of uniqueness to their identity. The band's unwavering energy and complex compositions drew attention, particularly on songs like "The Interstice" and "Fortress." These songs showcased the band's ability to blend melodic elements with unrelenting heaviness, which is a trademark of their musical approach. As Brand of Sacrifice grew in popularity, their sophomore album, "Lifeblood," released in 2021, cemented their place in the modern deathcore scene. The album broadened their sonic palette by incorporating atmospheric elements and delving into darker, more atmospheric themes. Notable tracks like "Charlotte" and "Divinity" demonstrated their growth as musicians and songwriters. The commitment of Brand of Sacrifice to pushing the boundaries of their genre was visible in their intense live performances, earning them a reputation as a must-see act. The band's ability to translate the complexity of their studio recordings to the stage cemented their place as one of the heavy music world's rising stars. Brand of Sacrifice continues to evolve and carve their niche in the metal scene despite their relatively brief but significant presence. Their unique blend of technical prowess, thematic depth, and unbridled intensity makes them a force to be reckoned with in the ever-changing landscape of extreme music.
The Toronto-based Deathcore monsters would kick off the night with an energy that never seemed to let up, only intensify. The band erupted on stage with the thunderous opening of "Fortress," an unyielding sonic assault that set the tone for the bands intense performance. Kyle Anderson's visceral vocals, paired with the intricate guitar work of Michael Leo Valeri immediately captivated the audience, creating an atmosphere charged with anticipation. As the band seamlessly transitioned into "Millennium," the audience was engulfed in an eruption of technicality and aggression. The band's precision and ability to maintain a relentless pace were highlighted by the relentless blast beats from Mike Caputo and rapid-fire riffing of Leo Valeri & Beeson. The ominous undertones and crushing breakdowns of "Demon King" reverberated throughout the venue, unleashing a dark and malevolent energy. The atmospheric elements in "Animal" added another layer of complexity, resulting in a dynamic contrast that kept the audience on the edge of their seats. "Lifeblood," the title track, served as the performance centerpiece, blending melodic nuances with brutal intensity. Anderson's versatile vocal range, which ranged from guttural lows to soaring highs, demonstrated the band's ability to create compositions that went beyond the traditional boundaries of deathcore. "Altered Eyes" continued the sonic journey, demonstrating the band's mastery of intricate, evolving arrangements. The song's ethereal atmosphere blended seamlessly with the relentless heaviness, creating a captivating sonic tapestry. The haunting melodies of "Eclipse," a track that showcased Brand of Sacrifice's ability to evoke emotion within their brutal sonic landscape, brought their set to a close. Always impressive to see live, the band plays at full intensity each time I've seen them, with vocalist Kyle Anderson delivering some of the nastiest live screams you will hear.
Currents emerged as a powerful force in the metalcore and progressive metal scene after forming in 2011 in Connecticut, USA. Vocalist Patrizio Arpaia, guitarists Mitch Lobuglio, bassist Chris Segovia, and drummer Jeff Brown were the original members of the band. Their shared love of heavy music and desire to push sonic boundaries drove their journey. Currents started to gain traction with the release of their debut EP, "Victimized," in 2013, which demonstrated their ability to blend aggressive metalcore with melodic sensibilities. This early release foreshadowed the band's potential, laying the groundwork for their subsequent evolution. They would go on to self-release their 2nd EP "Life // Lost" in 2015. The band's lineup continually evolved, eventually settling on todays lineup of Brian Wille on vocals, Chris Wiseman and Ryan Castaldi on guitars, Christian Pulgarin on bass, and Matt Young on drums. This configuration proved pivotal in shaping Currents' distinctive sound fans have grown to love. The release of their debut full-length album, "The Place I Feel Safest," in 2017 marked the band's breakthrough and first album on Sharptone Records. Currents took a significant step forward with this album, which featured a blend of intense aggression, intricate guitar work, and Wille's emotive vocals. Tracks like "Apnea" and "Silence" demonstrated the band's ability to blend crushing heaviness with atmospheric melodies. Continuing to build on their success, Currents released the EP "I Let the Devil In" in 2018, further solidifying their place in the metalcore scene. The EP explored darker themes and demonstrated the band's progression toward a more nuanced and mature sound. Currents' highly anticipated second full-length album, "The Way It Ends," was released in 2020. With complex compositions and introspective lyrical themes, this album demonstrated a refined and cohesive musical identity. Tracks like "A Flag to Wave" and the title track demonstrate the band's ability to combine aggression and intricate musicality. The intensity and emotional resonance of Currents' live performances became legendary. The band's commitment to pushing creative boundaries has earned them a devoted fanbase and recognition as a leading force in the modern metalcore and progressive metal landscape. Currents is a band to watch as they continue to evolve and innovate, leaving a lasting imprint on the ever-expanding realm of heavy music.
The concert began with the explosive energy of "Monsters," a track that immediately captivated the audience. The track's relentless intensity set a high standard for the evening, as Currents demonstrated their ability to blend crushing heaviness with melodic nuances. Following suit, "Poverty of Self" delves into darker thematic elements with razor-sharp guitar riffs and Brian Wille's emotive vocals cutting through the sonic landscape. The audience was taken on a musical journey that seamlessly blended aggression and melancholy. "The Rope" demonstrated the band's technical acuity, with intricate guitar work and rhythmic precision weaving a captivating sonic tapestry. The dynamic shifts in the song kept the audience on their toes, demonstrating Currents' ability to create compositions that evolve organically. The anthemic "A Flag to Wave" echoed throughout the venue, with the audience joining in on the passionate chorus. This track served as a unifying force in the band's discography, capturing the essence of resilience and strength in the face of adversity. "Tremor" provided a visceral sonic experience, shaking the venue to its core with seismic riffs and thunderous percussion. Currents' command of both technical intricacy and primal energy was highlighted by the song's relentless momentum. With its emotive melodies and poignant lyrics, "Better Days" provided a moment of reflection in contrast to the previous intensity. Wille's vocals soared, conveying a depth of emotion that was felt by the audience. "Into Despair" was an appropriate ending, a sonic descent into the abyss with atmospheric elements and crushing heaviness. As the set came to a close, the band's tight performance and Wille's commanding stage presence left an unforgettable impression.
After the Burial formed in 2004 in Twin Cities, Minnesota, and quickly rose to prominence as a leading force in the progressive metalcore and djent genres. The band was founded by guitarists Trent Hafdahl and Justin Lowe, and their early lineup included Nick Wellner on vocals, Greg Erickson on drums, and Lerichard "Lee" Foral on bass. After the Burial gained recognition for their technical prowess and innovative approach to metalcore after releasing their debut, "Forging a Future Self," in 2006. The EP demonstrated the band's ability to blend intricate guitar work, unusual time signatures, and a mix of melodic and aggressive elements. After some lineup changes, After the Burial released their first full-length album "Rareform," in 2008, which contained re-recorded versions of songs from their debut EP. The new lineup would consist of Anthony Notarmaso on vocals, Trent Hafdahl as lead guitar / backing vocals, Justin Lowe on rhythm guitar, Lerichard Foral on bass and Dan Carle on drums. The progressive and technical nature of the album drew praise from the metal community, establishing After the Burial as a band with a distinct and forward-thinking sound. With the death of guitarist Justin Lowe in 2015, tragedy struck. Despite this setback, After the Burial kept going. Trent Hafdahl and the remaining members devoted themselves to carrying on Lowe's legacy and the band's vision. Following releases, such as "Dig Deep" in 2016, in which the band would see bass player Lerichard Foral depart and would be soon after be replaced by current bass player Adrian Oropeza. The release of "Evergreen" in 2019, demonstrated the band's evolution and resilience. These albums showcased After the Burial's ability to blend djent-inspired grooves with melodic textures, resulting in a sound that resonated with fans of both progressive and extreme metal. The live performances of After the Burial became synonymous with technical precision and high-energy dynamics. Their use of extended-range guitars, complex rhythms, and powerful breakdowns helped to establish them as a must-see act in the metal scene. After the Burial has been a driving force in the ever-changing landscape of progressive metal and metalcore for nearly two decades. Their dedication to pushing musical boundaries and maintaining a distinct sonic identity solidifies their position as key figures in the modern metal scene.
The set began with "Collapse," a behemoth of a track that reverberated throughout the venue, immediately immersing the audience in After the Burial's world of intricate guitar work and thunderous rhythms. The unwavering energy set the tone for a night of progressive metal ferocity. "In Flux" came next, revealing a dynamic landscape of shifting tempos and melodic complexities. The band's technical precision shone through, captivating the audience with a seamless blend of complexity and cohesion. "Exit, Exist" added atmospheric depth, resulting in an experience that went beyond traditional metalcore boundaries. After the Burial's ability to create music that evokes both intensity and introspection was highlighted by the interplay between heavy chugging riffs and ethereal melodies. The anthemic "Behold The Crown" resounded authoritatively, its infectious groove and powerful hooks luring the audience into a collective rhythmic trance. The live performance of the song demonstrated After the Burial's mastery of engaging the audience with both musical complexity and infectious energy. The swirling textures and intense buildups of "Deluge" created a mesmerizing sonic experience, providing a moment of sonic catharsis. The band's ability to seamlessly transition between chaos and clarity was a testament to their musical dexterity. "Laurentian Ghosts" set a contemplative tone, with its progressive melodies and intricate guitar lines showcasing After the Burial's musical storytelling abilities. The song played out revealing layers of emotion and complexity. "Quicksand" unleashed a torrent of rhythmic complexity, its syncopated grooves and relentless pace keeping the audience on edge. The live performance of the song demonstrated After the Burial's technical prowess and tight musicianship. The familiar opening notes of "Lost In The Static" sparked a surge of excitement in the audience, creating what I would consider to be the biggest pit and audience bounce along of the night. The song's combination of djent-inspired riffing and infectious melodies elicited an enthusiastic response, with the audience completely immersed in jumping along with the band. "Mire" provided a brief moment of atmospheric respite, with its ambient textures and haunting melodies evoking feelings of introspection. The band's ability to balance aggression with moments of sonic beauty was on full display, engrossing the audience in a sonic ebb and flow. "Neo Seoul" gave the performance a futuristic edge, with electronic elements and pummeling riffs creating a dynamic sonic landscape. The band's ability to incorporate diverse influences seamlessly demonstrated their dedication to pushing the boundaries of their sound. The iconic "A Wolf Amongst Ravens," a track that epitomizes After the Burial's identity, brought the concert to a close. The intricate guitar harmonies, relentless drumming, and Anthony's guttural vocals merged into a sonic vortex that left the audience speechless. After the Burial's performance was a progressive metal masterclass, a journey through complex rhythms, atmospheric textures, and unrelenting intensity. Each song added another layer to the sonic narrative, resulting in an immersive experience that showcased the band's evolution and long-lasting impact on the metal genre. Clearly a Chicago favorite, I have seen them in the city on multiple occasions and each time they seem to bring out a larger than normal and devoted crowd.
Thy Art Is Murder emerged as a formidable force in the deathcore scene after forming in 2006 in Sydney, Australia. Vocalist Brendan van Ryn, guitarists Gary Markowski & Sean Delander, bassist Josh King, and drummer Lee Stanton were the original members of the band. The lineup evolved over time, culminating with todays lineup of Chris "CJ" McMahon taking over vocals, Andy Marsh as lead guitarist, Kevin Butler on bass, Sean Delander remaining on rhythm guitar and Jesse Beahler on drums. Thy Art Is Murder rose to prominence with their early EPs, which demonstrated a brutal and technical approach to deathcore. "The Adversary," their debut full-length album, was released in 2010, setting the stage for their sonic assault characterized by relentless blast beats, downtuned guitars, and McMahon's distinct guttural growls. The band's breakthrough came with the release of "Hate" in 2012, which featured tracks like "Reign of Darkness" that became extreme metal anthems. This album would be the bands first on the mighty Nuclear Blast Records label and catapulted them to international prominence, cementing their reputation for uncompromising sound and intense live performances. Thy Art Is Murder's sound evolved after the success of "Hate," with subsequent releases such as "Holy War" (2015) and "Dear Desolation" (2017). These albums explored sociopolitical themes, displaying lyrical depth that complemented their sonic brutality. Despite a brief hiatus caused by McMahon's temporary departure from the band in 2015, Thy Art Is Murder reunited with him in 2017, much to the delight of fans. This reunion rekindled their creative spirit, resulting in the release of "Human Target" in 2019, an album that cemented their position as leaders in the deathcore genre. Thy Art Is Murder's career has been defined by their unwavering dedication to pushing the limits of extreme metal. The band remains a driving force in the global metal scene, with a reputation for intense live shows and a discography that explores both musical and lyrical complexity.
Once the dust settled and the stage was reset, it was time for the main event. On their first trip to Chicago since the pandemic, they wasted little time amping up the crowd by kicking things off with an explosive burst as "Death Squad Anthem" reverberated through the venue, setting an immediate tone of ferocity that lingered throughout the performance. "Make America Hate Again" intensified the atmosphere with its relentless and confrontational energy, capturing the audience's attention. As the band delved into "The Purest Strain of Hate," the crowd was engulfed in a sonic onslaught of blistering riffs and thunderous percussion. The ferocious "Human Target" followed, showcasing the band's ability to seamlessly blend technical precision with guttural intensity, creating a visceral experience. The ominous and haunting opening tones of "Eternal Suffering" provided a brief moment to catch your breath, before shifting back into chaos, displaying Thy Art Is Murder's capacity to evoke a range of emotions within their set. "Dear Desolation" unfolded with a relentless, ominous march, captivating the audience with its crushing dynamics. "Fur And Claw" brought a primal intensity to the performance, punctuated by CJ McMahon's commanding stage presence as he paced the stage and stood behind his mic stand made up of skeletons. The anthemic "Holy War" rallied the crowd with its powerful, churning rhythm and incisive lyrics, creating a palpable sense of unity. The ominous melodies of "New Gods" cast a spell over the audience, leading into the brutal onslaught of "The Son Of Misery." "Chemical Christ" injected a dose of urgency into the set, with its searing guitar work and McMahon's visceral vocal delivery. Not long after the last notes of "Chemical Christ" rang out, the crowd made it known they were not ready to leave, as they broke out in a "one more song!" chant, as Thy Art made it seem as though the night was over, before coming back out with "Puppet Master" which continued the sonic assault, showcasing the band's technical prowess and tight instrumentation. The concert reached its pinnacle with the iconic "Reign of Darkness," a relentless barrage of sonic fury that left the crowd exhilarated to close out the night. Thy Art Is Murder's performance was a masterclass in extreme metal, navigating seamlessly through their discography with precision and intensity. Each song added a layer to the sonic tapestry, creating a concert experience that was as diverse as it was unrelenting. I have been to countless shows over the years, but this was my first time seeing Thy Art Is Murder and was thoroughly impressed by the performance. Not only was this a first for me, it was also one for the band as well. The band would share that this was the first instance in which Thy Art Is Murder has headlined an iconic House of Blues venue, which in the band's own words is a "bucket list show" for them. I can safely say they absolutely CRUSHED their opportunity. From the instrumentals to CJ's vocals, not only do they sound just as crisp & clean as album quality live, but CJ also utilizes his ear piercing high scream live that is quite impressive and something to hear for any fans of deathcore.
With just 6 remaining dates on this tour after tonight, there are not many chances for fans to catch this tour if they haven't already. Of all the shows I have attended at the House of Blues over the years, this was definitely one that will stick out in future memories. From the infectious jumping of almost the entire crowd to the intensity that each and every band delivered on stage, this was the type of concert metal fans hope for in their city, bands performing at their peak and high levels of crowd engagement. I would HIGHLY recommend to any metalhead to support the end of this tour as well as catching any of these bands live if they make a stop in your city in the future! I would like to give a huge thank you to Nuclear Blast Records for allowing me to come out and cover this epic tour!
Review & Photography By: Nick Buzinski
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