It was worth the extensive wait: Blind Guardian at Manchester Academy, UK

Electricity filled the air as the venue swelled to capacity, a buzz of excitement reverberated through the crowd who eagerly awaited Blind Guardian‘s return to the Manchester stage after an almost eight-year absence. The banner unfurled the striking artwork from their latest album, “The God Machine”, ignited a thunderous roar set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Frontman Hansi Kürsch took command, his charismatic presence effortlessly captivated the Mancunian crowd, while André Olbrich on lead guitar, Marcus Siepen on rhythm guitar, and Frederik Ehmke on drums shown their musical mastery on full display. As the setlist unfolded, the vigour in the room became palpable, reaching a crescendo as the audience chimed in with enthusiasm to beloved tunes such as “Blood Of The Elves” and “The Script For My Requiem”, transitioning seamlessly into the epic melodies of “Secrets Of The American Gods” and “Violent Shadows”. Manchester’s unity shone through as voices harmonised in unison, creating a shared experience that transcended individuality. The band’s generosity knew no bounds as they treated their fans to a thrilling four-song encore, featuring crowd favourites such as “Time Stands Still (At the Iron Hill)”, “Valhalla”, and “Mirror Mirror”, finally culminating in a fiery finale with “Majesty”. The German powerhouse performance was a testament to their enduring appeal, blending timeless classics with fresh sounds to create an unforgettable night that will linger in the memories of all who were fortunate enough to witness it.