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The band known as Sleep Token, considered to be one of the most promising in the metal genre, had a rough end to their successful year. After releasing their third album, Take Me Back to Eden, in May, they gained even more popularity and sold out their concert tonight in a matter of minutes. This was also the case for their shows in North America and Europe. The band members, who always perform wearing masks and keep their identities a secret, remained silent during the show as usual. However, seven songs into their set, a crew member came onstage to announce that lead singer Vessel had lost his voice. He encouraged the audience to sing along with them while Vessel continued to participate as an enthusiastic support member.
At first, the audience may have mistaken the performance for a karaoke session rather than an acrobatic show called The Summoning. However, as the set progresses, the audience becomes more engaged and joins in with the band’s songs. The set includes a mix of energetic instrumental versions of the band’s eclectic tracks and powerful singalongs. Despite some moments of decreased energy, the complex blend of post-rock, shimmering pop, and prog keeps the audience captivated. After the set, Vessel returns to the stage and delivers a heartfelt piano ballad, Bloodsport, with audible sobs. In rare interviews, Sleep Token has emphasized that their individual identities are not important; it is the music that truly matters. Tonight’s performance is a testament to that belief.
However, it is not the type of celebration that Sleep Token had envisioned. Instead of traditional concerts, they refer to their performances as rituals, and tonight was meant to mark the beginning of a promising new era. Accompanied by backup singers and a group of dancers, the first 45 minutes of the show are truly remarkable as Sleep Token exceeds their already high expectations. The opening song, “Chokehold,” may sound like a catchy pop track, but it is actually a heavy metal anthem. “Hypnosis” starts off as a gentle love song, but quickly transforms into a powerful and intense display. The band also incorporates experimental elements with “Dark Signs,” featuring glitchy trap breakdowns. Although this might seem disjointed, the band’s unwavering conviction makes it work. It is this unwavering belief that ultimately saves the show, as both Sleep Token and their audience fully immerse themselves in every moment, turning what could have been a defeat into a shared moment of euphoria.
Source: theguardian.com
