Winterfylleth close out their UK tour with a hometown show in Manchester. In support are Wormwitch (Canada) and Bizarrekult (Norway).

THE IMPERIOUS HORIZON

Each time we get new music from Winterfylleth, it generally leaves a mark. That mark could be one of crushing brutality, or epic beauty. It could be one of soaring sound or intricate melody. Whichever way, Winterfylleth are one of the leading lights in UK extreme music.

The Imperious Horizon (review here) once again saw the band in incredible form. An album full of emotion and plenty of twists and turns. Their sound goes from strength to strength, so having the chance to see the new material played live was a no brainer.

BIZARREKULT

The solo project of Roman V, Norway’s Bizzarekult was first thought of in 2006. It wasn’t until 2021 that their debut was released in the form of Vi Overlevde.. In 2023, they released their second record via Seasons Of Mist entitled Den Tapte Krigen.

In Manchester they revel in their chance. There are plenty of punters in early to see them. Taking tracks from their two albums, the Norwegians warm up the masses well. Roman V is passionate and emotive in his delivery of the vocals. He encourages people to move a bit closer and pays thanks to the bands on the bill for a successful weeks tour. If you are fan of Norwegian Black Metal, then Bizarrekult will satisfy.

WORMWITCH

Wormwitch offer a different proposition. The Canadian trio blast through a selection of songs that pummel. Their latest record is their fourth, self titled effort. Within the set are plenty of cuts from this record. The sound has elements of black metal but with a punky edge.

Robin Harris plays bass and sings; he adopts a Lemmy like pose with a mic stand hanging the microphone above his figure. During their half hour set, they waste no time in smashing out an unrelenting set that sees plenty of hair being thrown around and plenty of heads being banged.

This is the first time that the Canadian’s have been on tour in the UK. It is clear to see that they have earned plenty more fans on this run.

WINTERFYLLETH

Winterfylleth take the stage to a great reception. Their hometown shows never disappoint and tonight is set up to be another cracker. With the aforementioned new album being aired, it is no surprise that the opening two tracks are taken from The Imperious Horizon.

First Light plays the band on as Mark Deeks raises a fist to the crowd before the rest of the band enter and smash into Dishonour Enthroned. It is one of Winterfylleth’s newest compositions that genuinely soars. To The Edge Of Tyranny is up next with Nick Wallwork taking on vocals; something he clearly has the chops for…just check out his work with Magnetar.

As the opening duo of songs fly by, it is clear to see that Winterfylleth are tight to the nail. A week of shows will do that to you; plus, the band are on home turf and are clearly relaxed and ready. Mark Deeks’ early enthusiasm as he took the stage does not abate. He bangs his head enthusiastically and punches the air in glorious fashion behind the keys; his presence is infectious.

THE RECKONING DAWN

A trip back to 2021’s The Reckoning Dawn comes with the albums’ title track. The Reckoning Dawn was one of those records that had a troublesome birth having been released during the global pandemic. Without a full tour per se, it is great to see a track in the set. The twin guitar parts on the track sound magnificent live; Winterfylleth really know how to tug at the heart strings.

The Threnody Of Triumph is given a nod as A Soul Unbound slows the pace. One of the more hulking pieces that Winterfylleth have in the locker, again, this is a song bursting with emotion. It is the kind of music that can speak to you on several levels – it is stoic and epic. When listening, it is clear that it would be very easy to slip into a cascading black metal sections but the band hold their nerve and show restraint in holding back. This restraint enhances the song. A piano outro bookends the song with great cheers from the crowd.

UPON THIS SHORE

More cuts from The Imperious Horizon follow. Upon This Shore was one of the taster tracks released for the album and the title track is a completely majestic work. In introduction to the song, Chris Naughton pays tribute to family and friends in the audience as well as Mark Mynett and Chris Fielding who both played a huge part in the creation of The Imperious Horizon.

The Imperious Horizon is a true highlight; not just of the latest record, but of the bands entire discography. In its DNA are all the hallmarks of Winterfylleth. There are brutal riffs, wonderful melodies and ethereal passages. As the song marches to its conclusion after a little repose, the powerful bass drop sees all heads banging and fists aloft.

HITS

A trip back to The Ghost Of Heritage is summoned in the form of the title track as the band ask if people are still alive on a Sunday night. The answer is yes.

Sandwiched between The Ghost Of Heritage and the massive set closer Mam Tor (The Shivering Mountain), is the classic Whisper Of The Elements. From 2014’s The Divination Of Antiquity, ‘Elements’ is another calling card of the band. The different hues they bring in the duration of a song is spellbinding and Simon Lucas’ drumming is top notch.

Winterfylleth are standard bearers of extreme metal in the UK. They have honed their craft incredibly over the years and never put a foot wrong. Shows like these are always impassioned and special. Long may this continue.

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