The Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater in Bridgeport, CT bore witness on Sunday, August 20, to an epic convergence of Norse mythology and haunting mystique as two Swedish metal powerhouses, Ghost and Amon Amarth, graced the stage for their highly anticipated “Re-Imperatour” tour. The night unfolded as a mesmerizing journey through the realms of heavy metal, with each band offering a distinct, yet equally captivating performance that left the audience entranced and exhilarated, an indelible mark etched into the hearts of metal enthusiasts.
As the sun gradually dipped beneath the horizon, an electric energy crackled through the air, a palpable anticipation that heralded the impending sonic onslaught. The stage underwent a transformation, a living tableau of Norse legends emerged before the crowd’s eyes. Amon Amarth’s stage presence was nothing short of breathtaking, a testament to their commitment to creating an all-encompassing experience that transcends music alone. With their drummer perched atop a colossal, illuminated Thor helmet and flanked by stone statues whose piercing eyes glowed with intensity, the visual spectacle was akin to stepping into a living mythology.
Amon Amarth’s setlist was a symphony of raw power and mythic storytelling, a riveting journey that delved deep into Viking lore. The ferocious energy of “Raven’s Flight” ignited the night, propelling the audience into a realm where axes clashed, and ships sailed on stormy seas. Each subsequent song, from the rallying anthem of “Guardians of Asgaard” to the epic crescendo of “Twilight of the Thunder God,” was an auditory saga that stirred the soul. The unexpected moments, like the crowd becoming Viking rowers during “Put Your Back Into The Oar” or the dragon battle during the aforementioned finale, demonstrated Amon Amarth’s ability to create an immersive experience that bridges the gap between music and the mythic.
Following Amon Amarth’s thunderous display, the stage underwent a transformation of a different kind, the atmosphere shifting to one of enigmatic reverence as Ghost made their entrance. The band’s mastery of theatricality and musical prowess was immediately evident, with every song seamlessly weaving into the next. The setlist, a carefully curated journey through their discography, was an ode to their unique blend of infectious melodies and haunting storytelling. Tracks like the infectious “Rats,” the dark allure of “Cirice,” and the mesmerizing chants of “Year Zero” resonated deeply with the audience, who became ensnared by Ghost’s mystique.
Yet, it was the unexpected twists that truly showcased Ghost’s ability to captivate and surprise. The resurrection of Papa Nihil during “Miasma” for a masterful saxophone solo was a moment that underscored the band’s penchant for defying expectations. Amid a stage design evoking the ambiance of a gothic church, Ghost spun a spellbinding narrative that balanced arcane themes with auditory enchantment.
Amon Amarth and Ghost, each in their distinctive ways, crafted performances that married music and visual artistry, weaving a tapestry of sights and sounds that enveloped the audience in a visceral embrace. The “Re-Imperatour” tour etched itself into Bridgeport’s musical history as a night when the spirit of metal surged to the forefront, a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of heavy music. Attendees departed with not only cherished memories, but also renewed fervor for the immersive possibilities of live music.
Amon Amarth Setlist: Raven’s Flight, Shield Wall, Heidrun, Deceiver of the Gods, Put Your Back Into The Oar, The Way of the Vikings, Guardians of Asgaard, Raise Your Horns, Twilight of the Thunder God
Ghost Setlist: Kaisarion, Rats, From the Pinnacle to the Pit, Spillways, Cirice, Absolution, Ritual, Call Me, Little Sunshine, Con Clavi Con Dio, Watcher in the Sky, Year Zero, He Is, Miasma (featuring Papa Nihil’s saxophone solo), Mary on a Cross, Mummy Dust, Respite on the Spitalfields
Encore: Kiss the Go-Goat, Dance Macabre, Square Hammer
Amon Amarth
Ghost
The Fans
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