Live Review: Cattle Decapitation @ Fryhuset Klubben, Stockholm

Cattle Decapitation
Special Guests: Vomit Forth + 200 Stab Wounds + Signs of the Swarm
Venue: Fryhuset Klubben, Stockholm
Date: 27th March 2024
Review By: Carlos Tirado

It’s still chilly in Stockholm; in fact, we saw a bit of snow this week. However, that didn’t deter the crowd from nearly packing out the venue. Fryhuset is just one of several local spots in the area that host concerts of all sizes, making it a relatively large venue with two floors: one for standing and moshing, and one for those needing extra accommodation (they really go out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable, which is great!).

I must admit my mea culpa: balancing life as a scientist and a father can be tough, so I arrived late and missed Signs of the Swarm and 200 Stab Wounds. Though I can’t offer a fair assessment, the crowd seemed properly warmed up for what followed. So, whatever they did, it was great!

Vomit Forth

Vomit Forth was a new name to me, and I’ll be honest, their deep Metalcore influence had me a bit sceptical at first. However, they proved to be masters at delivering an intense and engaging concert experience. Constantly interacting with the crowd, they threw out sick breakdown after sick breakdown, and the audience ate it up. The highlight? When the singer called for so much crowd surfing that even the security couldn’t handle it. That moment was priceless, and while the security guy worked hard afterward, everyone took it in good spirits and refrained from jumping over the band. Overall, a fun time! 3.5 out of 5 stars (3.5 / 5)

Cattle Decapitation

Now onto the main event. Cattle Decapitation might just be one of the heaviest bands on the planet, but they know how to set the mood with their ominous entrance, using lighting and slow riffs to build tension. And when they hit, it’s like a sonic apocalypse. The blast beats were some of the sickest and most consistent I’ve heard in recent memory. For years, I’ve wondered if the “gobbling” growling was for real, and to my surprise, the singer nailed it perfectly. While their stage presence was more traditional and less interactive compared to Vomit Forth, there were moments that made me feel like I was witnessing the end of the world. Few bands can capture the desperate violence and decay of our current crises like Cattle Decapitation. They’re more than just brutal; there’s a level of professionalism and maturity that amplifies their message: “We’re consuming the world, and time is running out.” It’s rare for music this heavy to provoke such deep reflection, but Cattle Decapitation manages it effortlessly. So, let’s all recycle our trash and headbang to Terrasite 4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

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