Two decades of death metal: report of Insomnium and Omnium Gatherum’s evolution at their show in London

The report is by Sabrina Schiavinato – a big thank you to Birgit for hosting us!

The tour’s performers speak for themselves, so there isn’t much need to introduce this review. The “Beyond the Shadows of the Dying Sun” 10th Anniversary Tour of Insomnium‘s album “Shadows of the Dying Sun” is a celebration that the Finnish powerhouse is bringing to Europe, which will delight all OG and Insomnium fans. Omnium Gatherum, a very special guest, joined the tour and played the whole “Beyond” anniversary set. Unfortunately, Hinayana, the opening act for this incredible tour that will perform in 13 locations throughout Europe, was unable to support the London event. “Shadows of the Dying Sun” is undoubtedly a very special album for the band, and everyone is thrilled to perform it live for the first time, according to Niilo’s statement.

And we’re thrilled! How many people remember the day the record was released? Yes, I do recall!

Please be aware that this review may evoke strong emotions and memories. So if you allow me… slow down so I can catch you.

Omnium Gatherum

1. Luoto
2. New Dynamic
3. In the Rim
4. Nightwalkers
5. Formidable
6. The Sonic Sign
7. Who Could Say
8. The Unknowing
9. Living in Me
10. White Palace

Being able to celebrate 10 years of an album is something that doesn’t happen very frequently, so I was a little anxious. The opening notes of “Luoto” sent shivers down my spine, and I was certain many others shared that sensation too. It’s indescribable how this introduction built the energy to come, especially as all the instruments entered and Markus’s vibrant guitar notes began to reverberate throughout the venue. 

As the first few notes of “The New Dynamic” began, Jukka entered the stage, and the entire atmosphere changed as he conveyed his captivating presence to the London audience. His powerful guttural voice glided into the venue like a glove, rebounding back at us with a beautiful balance of harmony. The keyboards and the back-and-forth of the guitars combined to create a unique experience that no other venue could likely match. The energy transformed as the set progressed, delving into some of the songs that only a select few have experienced live, highlighting Jukka’s extensive range of vocals. The impactful yet accessible performance of “Who Could Say,” a notably slower piece compared to the rest of the album showcased the range of Jukka’s vocals and the artistry of the entire band. The low-register vocals truly evoked chills, and when combined with the exquisite keyboards of Aapo, the experience becomes even more remarkable. 

Atte’s drumming stood out in all of this, showcasing his precise kick and technical skills, particularly during the song “Formidable.” You could sense his influence from progressive and technical metal drummers, as his drumming technique is exact, strong, and adaptable. For a moment, I felt as though I was back in my bedroom, still listening to the disc with my headphones. The sound in the venue was remarkably clear, and if it weren’t for the people screaming, I might not have noticed much of a difference.

Markus and Joonas’ guitars jamming on stage, along with Mikko’s powerful bass line, generated a tangible connection; it was evident how long these musicians have been playing together, as their stage presence is truly a joy to behold. You heard correctly; Joonas is returning for this tour as Nick Cordle has chosen to follow his musical journey elsewhere. We wish him the best of luck!

Moving toward the end of the OG set, “The Unknowing” and “White Palace” created an electrifying atmosphere. As Jukka urged everyone to headbang, I, like many, couldn’t hold back my excitement. This album stands as a remarkable achievement in Finnish production, and while this may not be groundbreaking within the melodic death metal genre for many, experiencing it live was an indescribable opportunity.

Photo: Peterson Marti.

Insomnium

1. The Primeval Dark
2. While We Sleep
3. Revelation
4. Black Heart Rebellion
5. Collapsing Words 
6. The River
7. Ephemeral
8. The Promethean Song 
9. Shadows of the Dying Sun
10. Out to the Sea 
11. Lilian
12. One for Sorrow

The venue already had a heated atmosphere after the 20-minute break, which ideally allowed Mr. Vanhala to refuel. I must admit that Heaven (the venue) was a bit of a surprise for this type of concert; while certain metal bands have previously performed here, it is not a usual setting for heavy music. The layout makes it difficult for people to move around and properly appreciate the performance, as it feels like the walls are pressing down on you. However, the fact that the venue was full demonstrated how many people wanted to pay tribute to this outstanding achievement the band has accomplished. 

As “The Primaeval Dark” built to its majestic introduction, the audience screamed uncontrollably, and by the time “While We Sleep” rolled around, no one was standing still. Everyone, including those on my right and left, was singing, and it resonated with me that everyone was singing together; it was such a tremendous feeling. Of course, this is the kind of music that lingers in your memory and, when performed live, evokes a diverse range of emotions, such as heartbreak, aggression, and melodies as sweet as wine. Throughout the entire performance, the band’s skill in combining all these melodic elements was truly remarkable.

The more the set progressed, Niilo became nostalgic, realizing how many people were there to be part of this experience and, shockingly, how many people in London could party on Tuesday nights. Like many others present, we were the first to hear all of the songs from “Shadows of the Dying Sun” live, and of course, “Lose to Night” caused some emotional harm. While we saw the band perform this song during the Covid webcast, experiencing it live was undoubtedly a different experience. The two guitars’ interaction on stage complemented the setting wonderfully. Vanhala’s solos were, of course, amazing, and it was captivating to hear him sing as a second voice. An ethereal melody and rich, pure vocals gave way to Niilo’s powerful growls as the speed picked up.

The journey through the mind and spirit—misery and suffering—persisted as Markus Hirvonen’s acclaimed drums allowed no space for filler or dullness. His explosive drum section drove us onward in “The River.” The atmosphere surged, and from the front of the stage, the only thing visible was the cascade of long, twirling hair.

At the climax of “Ephemeral,” we were completely exhausted.

“Do you still want some more heavy metal?” Niilo asked the crowd, and of course, we couldn’t say no. The band surprised us all with “Lilian” and “One for Sorrow” to end this incredible night. The emotional rollercoaster of the first listen when this album came out is still fresh in my memory, and I guess we were correct in predicting that “Shadows of the Dying Sun” would be a long-lasting album. 

This was a truly unique experience.

Photo: Peterson Marti.