Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
December typically brings to mind cosy nights, twinkling Christmas lights, and thoughtful gifts, so I definitely didn’t see a full-blown mediaeval battlefield spectacle coming this early in the season. This wasn’t just your typical metal show; it was like stepping into an epic historical war story, complete with a booming orchestral score and some seriously impressive pyrotechnics. It was an unforgettable experience, all wrapped up in a grand display of sound and spectacle.
When I walked into the O2 arena, I was completely blown away by the set. A mediaeval fortress, now that’s something you don’t see every day, huh?
So let me guide you through one of the most epic shows I witnessed, closing down this year’s show reviews.
As the hooded figures of the orchestra made their way onto the stage, you could really sense the excitement beginning to rise.
I was really looking forward to The Legendary Orchestra, which is made up of 26 amazingly talented orchestral musicians and choir members from around the globe. They were all coming together for this special event to perform some of Sabaton’s music. These incredible artists come from diverse backgrounds and bring their own special skills to the table, all connected by a common passion for crafting bold, unforgettable musical experiences that truly bring the band’s songs to life in a way that no one else can.
The performance was fantastic and really impressive, all done in just an hour. I was covered in goosebumps the entire time! What really caught my attention wasn’t just the classic instruments; it was the stunning beauty of the choir voices that truly brought the melodies to life with such an energetic performance.
Stepping into the spotlight are three amazing artists, each bringing their own unique flair and talent: singer Noa Gruman, the hurdy-gurdy dynamo Patty Gurdy, and the mesmerising Mia Asano with her electric violin.
The way the songs from the Sabaton repertoire were chosen was spot on. They made sure there were no repeats and that everything lined up perfectly with the show everyone was getting ready to see with the headliners.
Photo: Peterson Marti.
We were totally ready for an epic show, and then, out of nowhere, bam! You suddenly find yourself in the middle of this surprise theatrical performance. We got this awesome 30-minute scene with Genghis Khan and Napoleon showing off their conquests, and you won’t believe what happens next! Julius Caesar popped up in the scene as well. What a fantastic way to bring Sabaton’s new album “Legends” to life! That incredible intro with the band members coming onto the second stage dressed as templar soldiers was just awesome. As the notes of “Templars” start playing, the band makes their entrance and walks across this impressive iron bridge that links the second stage to the main one—totally giving off some serious Rammstein vibes, I have to say!
I honestly didn’t see any of that coming. The opening show was a real treat, with every detail thoughtfully put together. The choice of songs and how the actors introduced them, plus the fantastic stage effects that changed for each number, really made an impression. Wow, with those cannons blasting at explosive boxes, we’ve really seen it all!
There was a time when I felt like I wasn’t really connecting with the music anymore. There was just so much going on that the whole experience took me by surprise, and I was totally amazed. It was really impressive how they managed to pull off such a fantastic event, focussing on every little detail. Shoutout to their team! The commitment to immersive storytelling didn’t stop with the opening act; it carried on all through the set.
We even got a nice surprise when the choir of The Legendary Orchestra came back on stage with “Christmas Truce,” bringing their incredible voices to the rest of the performance and songs.
Just when you think you’ve seen it all in terms of visual effects, “The Attack of the Dead Men” starts, and Joakim comes out from backstage with this massive gun that’s releasing smoke. When the iron bridge comes down from the ceiling again, he and the band stroll down the bridge, filling the venue with smoke. They head over to the second stage and then jump into the crowd, saying hi to fans while keeping the song going. What a scene it was!
As we approached the final few songs of the set, I noticed I was running low on breath! What a fantastic show! It was such an amazing night! I’ve never seen anything quite like that!
Photo: Peterson Marti.
