Dethklok, Babymetal, and Nekrogoblikon Lowered the Boom on San Francisco!
Dethklok at The Masonic in San Francisco, 4/25/24
Last week, Dethklok brought the "Babyklok Tour" to San Francisco for two nights, April 24th and April 25th. I attended the April 25th concert. Supported by Babymetal and Nekrogoblikon, the concert was nothing short of phenomenal, delivering an electrifying experience that left the audience in shock.
The show opened with Nekrogoblikon jumping on stage with their signature blend of melodic death metal with a little bit of goblin-themed theatrics. We laughed. We headbanged. We were captivated with high energy and a commanding performance of lead vocalists, John Goblikon (who is also an insurance agent!) and Dickie Allen. About five songs in, they began singing Dressed As Goblins. The entire Masonic erupted in chants of "Dressed as goblins! Dressed as goblins!" followed by a chorus of "Ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha hah!" The band's unique stage presence had everyone under its goblin-y green spell. Overall, Nekrogoblikon's set was an unforgettable "warm up" to this night - which shows you the power this tour punches. I certainly want more and will seek out Nekrogoblikon whenever they are playing anywhere near where I live. With their high energy antics, technical proficiency, and plenty of goblin poop (yes, I said poop), Nekrogoblikon has proven they are one of the most exciting acts in the metal scene today. If you ever have the chance to catch them live, don't hesitate – it's an experience you won't soon forget.
Nekrogoblikon was the first band on stage, prepping the crowd for the metal and J-Pop mash up that is Babymetal! In futuristic, otherworldly fashion, Suzuka Nakamoto (Su-Metal), Moa Kikuchi (Moametal), and Momoko Okazaki (Momometal) stoically walked onto the stage as fire raged behind them (on a screen). Babymetal knows how to command a stage, and their energy is infectious from the first note to the last. Su-metal's powerful vocals soar above the thunderous guitar riffs and pounding drums, while Moametal and Momometal's synchronized choreography adds an extra layer of visual excitement. Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Babymetal's set was their ability to connect with their audience. Despite the larger-than-life production and the trio's commanding stage presence, there's still an air of intimacy to their performances that makes the fans feel connected to the band. Whether they're singing along to every word or waving glow sticks in time with the music, it's clear that Babymetal's music has struck a chord with fans around the world.
Finally, Dethklok took the stage. You know, that band that does not exist. Dethklok is so much more than a band - they're a force of nature. As the animated stars of the hit television series "Metalocalypse," they've captured the hearts and minds of metal fans around the world with their brutal riffs, thunderous drums, and over-the-top antics. Now imagine this force taking their act on the road for a live performance. From the moment the lights dimmed in the Masonic, it was clear this wasn't going to be an ordinary concert. Dethklok's live shows are a feast for the senses, with towering screens projecting animated visuals of mega destruction. Flames shooting everywhere as lasers light up the audience. But beyond the pyrotechnics and flashy visuals, the music sets Dethklok apart. With a catalog of blistering tracks that range from bone-crushing anthems to haunting ballads, they showcase their talent as musicians and songwriters with every performance. Dethklok's live set is a masterclass in metal excellence.
And then there's the connection between the band and their fans. Despite their animated personas, Dethklok has always had a deep appreciation for their fanbase. Whether they're inciting mosh pits with their ferocious energy or sharing a moment of quiet introspection, Dethklok knows how to make every fan feel like they're part of something special. Dethklok's live shows are an unforgettable experience that combines jaw-dropping visuals, ear-shredding music, and an undeniable sense of camaraderie between the band and audience. Thank you and a horns up salute to Brendon Small for creating this entertaining masterpiece (I still don't know when he finds the time to sleep!).
I give this show a 10 out of 10 horns!
Dickie Allen of Nekrogoblikon
