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170 Russell
Swedish melodic metal band Avatar, have finally made it to Australian shores to celebrate the recent release of their ninth studio album ‘ Dance Devil Dance’. The crowd is a sea of painted faces, and as the band like to point out early on, we are here for a freak show.
The band make a theatrical entrance, almost ritual like in its presentation, hailing the beginning of what will be nothing short of impressive. Dressed in red and black satin suits, resembling a vintage side show, the band get straight into the performance kicking things off with ‘ Dance Devil Dance’. A circle pit forms early on and from then on in, it’t total mayhem, the crowd having full permission to let loose, strangers colliding with strangers.
The band are a solid unit, melodic riffs punctuated by the expert drumming of John Alfredsson. However, it’s frontman Johannes Eckerström that really steals the show. Dressed like a cross between Eric Draven and The Joker, Eckerström is captivating to watch. As the sweat pours down his face he never misses a beat, his vocals flawless.
Powering their way through the hits including ‘ Tower’ and ‘ Bloody Angel’ the band don’t stop to take a breath. During ‘Puppet Show’ Eckerström appears in the crowd to create balloon animals and play the trombone. Phones go up to capture the iconic moment.
Before this evening most of the crowd would never have heard of Mölndal, however these heavy metalers have shown the Australian crowd the absolute best of Swedish music. They have entertained the crowd in an exceptional manner,captivating and enrapturing,
This may be Avatar’s first ever tour to Australia, and hopefully it’s not too long before they return.
Words by Amanda Lee Starkey
