Evergrey: LIVE- Before The Aftermath

Evergrey shouldn’t need any introduction- the Sweeds have been a notable player in the progressive and melodic metal scene for over two decades. Their discography is strong and consistent, and their last handful of albums are arguably as good as anything they’ve released in their career (which isn’t something you can say for most bands of this vintage).

Whilst the band has been prolific in their studio output, they only have one live release to their name; 2005’s A Night To Remember. This was an enjoyable release; however, time has ticked on considerably and there’s no doubt that they are overdue in capturing a live show for posterity.

In 2020, Evergrey decided to stream a concert live from their hometown Gothenburg during the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic. This event resulted in almost two hours of live material that has ultimately been used for this release Live: Before The Aftermath. Englund often references the isolation of the pandemic throughout the set which is sure to make this release a true ‘snap-shot in time’ in years to come.

But besides being a COVID-time-capsule, the concert itself is a typically great performance from the ‘classic’ Evergrey lineup; Englund-Niemann-Danhage-Zander-Ekdahl. Englund’s vocals are soulful as ever and Danhage’s lead guitar work proves to be a highlight throughout.

I last saw Evergrey live in 2017 and the setlist on this release bares many similarities, albeit with the addition of a handful of songs from 2019’s The Atlantic. The tracks from The Atlantic sound particularly energetic and prove to be a highlight alongside the usual suspects. Long-time staples of the Evergrey set "Solitude Within", "Recreation Day" & "A Touch Of Blessing" go down a treat, but the recent classics "Distance" & "King Of Errors" are arguably the highlights.

The performance is very strong, and the production is good, making for a quality live album. I feel that the ideal way to enjoy Live: Before The Aftermath will be on the BluRay, where the full concert experience will be able to come to life. AFM records have a range of formats and packages to offer which will no doubt satisfy the most eager fans whilst awaiting the new Studio album due out later this year.

Track Listing
1. A Silent Ark
2. Weightless
3. Distance
4. Passing Through
5. The Fire
6. Leave It Behind Us
7. Mark Of The Triangle
8. The Masterplan
9. Solitude Within
10. Black Undertow
11. My Allied Ocean
12. All I Have
13. The Grand Collapse
14. Recreation Day
15. A Touch Of Blessing
16. King Of Errors

Added: February 1st 2022
Reviewer: Chris Reid
Score:
Related Link: Band Facebook Page
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Language: english

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