Emperor

Emperor are black metal behemoths, hugely influential in developing the genre into what it is today. their performance at Hellfest this year was brutal, visceral and dominating, going full throttle right from the start. The audience was subjected to blast beats right from the start, displaying their intention to unleash their brutish intensity upon the crowd. Emperor have enjoyed a long career, although after a break, they have reformed in recent years and proved that they still have tonnes of vitality and energy that is inherent in their music. Ihsahn's vocals are scratching growls that are skin-curlingly good, backed by intense guitar riffs and pummelling drums that drive their songs along at a rapid pace. "The Burning Shadows of Silence" was a highlight of the performance, a wild, frenzied track that created a whirlwind of noise, proving to be an exhilarating listen. The band sounded tight as ever, showing they have not grown sloppy over the years and the moments of absence from the world of music. Emperor are heroes of black metal and it is clear that they intend to continue to dominate and terrorise the scene. Being in the audience for an Emperor show is a true experience and is sure to blow away any cobwebs and leave you wanting to retreat into a small ball to recollect your energies after your aural receptors have been treated to such a punishment. A fantastic act that deserve the credit they have garnered.

man what can I say .truly an honour and a privilege to meet and great the band .then watch them musically inspire, intimidate,annihilate all those who were there to witness the pure brilliance and genius that is EMPEROR. 1 week on and still on a high to have been in the prescence of black metal royalty

I was extremely fortunate to see them in Los Angeles back in 2006 at the Key Club and in Chicago 2007. I met the band both occasions and they were so polite! The show was AMAZING!! I was made fun of extensively growing up for listening to metal and I'm still listening :)