Whilst the rest of the lower mainland was tucking into Turkey on Thanksgiving weekend, metal fans were making the trip out to UBC to see the return of Lamb Of God bring their Omens tour to Vancouver.
It was the first time in 4 years that LoG had been to the lower mainland, the last time out was part of the Slayer World Tour in 2018. Tonight, they were back as headliners. The uncharacteristically early start time allowed for four bands on the bill.
Openers Fit For An Autopsy got the night rolling with a set that was far too short to fully explore their back catalogue of six albums. But fans of the band were treated to 30 minutes of highlights, including a couple of tracks from their latest album Oh What The Future Holds.
Next up were Spiritbox. Hailing from Victoria, the band had clearly brought a bunch of local fans out for the show. It was the first night of three on the tour for the band, and they more than acquitted themselves. They looked at home on the big stage, belying the fact that they have really only been a touring band since 2020. They were a credit to BC, and hopefully will be back for a gig of their own soon.
Metalcore pioneers Killswitch Engage certainly ramped up the energy to another level after hitting the stage. Having more than 20 years together as a band always helps with the onstage presence, and Jesse Leach’s energy was relentless as he paced the stage for an hour. A particular favourite from the set for me was Holy Diver, as it reminded me of my early shows, and going to see the likes of Rainbow and Black Sabbath – showing my age 😊.
Although I think lamb of God would perform well in a venue of any size, they really know how to bring a show to a big stage. While they certainly do not rely on pyro and effects for a show they really know how to use it to their advantage. As a concert photographer I really appreciate this, as I can easily get the shots while enjoying the show.
Randy Blythe never seems to stand still for more than a second, and even then it is only to encourage crowd participation. Add to this his distinctive vocals, and athletic ability from the drum riser and you have a match made in heavy metal heaven.
The band’s latest album “Omens” was released a few days prior to the show, and they squeezed in a couple of tracks, Nevermore and the title track Omens into the set. Alongside this the set was chock full of fan favourites, which was went over well with both new and old fans and was perhaps a good choice given the enforced absence of touring over the last couple of years.
I think most people would have loved time for a few more songs in the set, but wen you have such a large line-up there is only so much time…
Already looking forward to the next time around..
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