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After a few well received support slots – most notably with Haken earlier this year – Danish outfit Vola have taken the plunge and stepped out for their first ever headlining tour. With the London date selling out, it seems that the timing has been perfect, so much so that there is quite a throng gathered in tonight’s venue.
Taking that plunge by booking their debut headlining tour might have brought some sleepless nights, but by the time that the four piece take to the stage, any doubts would surely have vanished. Greeting them were some of the most studious and attentive fans that I’ve ever encountered. And they were really going for it as well. Air-guitar, air-drumming, even air-keys! Simultaneous headbanging all perfectly executed by the front few rows, only pausing to roar the lyrics back at guitarist/vocalist Asger Mygind. This crowd were up for it, and the band seemed genuinely taken aback that people not only knew the lyrics, but were singing them with such passion.
With addictive sophomore album ‘Applause From A Distance Crowd’ gaining plaudits from every corner, it makes sense that the setlist weighs heavily towards it. The gentle opening strains of ‘Still’ quickly gives way to an almighty crescendo as drummer Adam Janzi crashes in and makes his presence felt. Bassist Nicolai Mogensen is lost in the music as he rocks back and forth, before unleashing some killer grooves (as well as some impressive growls) on ‘Smartfriend’, just one example of how a band can successfully marry ultra-clean vocals with heavier music. Martin Werner is over on the opposite side behind his array of keyboards, delivering an understated, but crucial performance.
Mygind has a hypnotic voice, and at times (‘Ruby Pool’) he holds the front few rows in an almost trance-like state. His playing is at times staggering, coaching an incredible tone out of his guitar as he runs the full gamut of emotions. Especially on the towering ‘Black Box’, a track from the early days that goes over rather well with those that have been along for the ride for sometime now.
Vola are one of those bands that cause pigeon-holers a headache, it’s 70’s inspired prog, it’s metal, it’s rock, it’s electronic….enough to make your head spin. But in all honesty there really only are two types of music; good or bad, and Vola certainly don’t fall into the latter type.
Check out all remaining tour dates here.
Review – Dave S
Images Dave J
