Barrowlands Ballroom, Glasgow
2nd March 2025
Review & Photography by Gavin Lowrey
Introduction to the Evening
This concert marked the conclusion of Opeth’s European tour in support of their latest album, ‘Last Will and Testament.’ The Barrowlands Ballroom, affectionately known as ‘The Barras’ by locals, served as the perfect venue to cap off this leg of their journey.
Grand Magus: The Opening Act
Joining Opeth on this tour was Swedish metal band Grand Magus. With an impressive discography spanning ten albums, they have earned acclaim for their powerful riffs and captivating storytelling reminiscent of the legendary Ronnie James Dio. Blending metal, rock, doom, and blues, this trio delivered a melodious performance that captivated the audience.
The Performance Begins
As Grand Magus took the stage, the energy was palpable. Their warm-up routine indicated they were ready for business. Launching into their opener ‘I, The Jury,’ the venue filled with enthusiastic fans eager to see more than just the headliners.
Despite being a three-piece band, Grand Magus created a sonic wall often rivaling that of larger groups. Vocalist and guitarist JB Christoffersson engaged the audience, ensuring they were involved from the start.
With a rhythm section powered by Mats Skinner on bass and Ludwig Witt on drums, Grand Magus delivered an impressive set, showcasing tracks from their latest album, ‘Sunraven,’ alongside classics like ‘Hammer of the North.’ Their performance left the crowd buzzing for more.
Grand Magus Setlist
- I, The Jury
- Skybound
- Steel Versus Steel
- Raven’s Guide Our Way
- Sunraven
- Untamed
- Like the Oar Strikes The Water
- Hammer of the North
The Main Event: Opeth
After a brief intermission, the house lights dimmed, signaling the arrival of Opeth. The band stepped onto the stage and began with ‘§1,’ the haunting opening track from their latest album. Frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt commanded the stage, balancing his clean and growled vocals flawlessly.
Musical Journey Through Opeth’s Classics
Bassist Martin Mendez added depth to tracks like ‘Master’s Apprentices,’ while the crowd relished the epic ‘The Leper Affinity,’ a hallmark of progressive metal. The performance was a testament to Opeth’s unparalleled musicianship, with guitarist Fredrik Åkesson delivering mesmerizing solos.
Opeth’s setlist featured a blend of heavy and melodic moments, captivating the audience throughout. Highlights included ‘Ghost of Perdition’ and ‘In My Time of Need’ before an encore that featured the powerful ‘Sorceress’ and an extended rendition of ‘Deliverance.’
Opeth Setlist
- 1
- Master’s Apprentices
- The Leper Affinity
- 7
- Häxprocess
- In My Time of Need
- The Night and the Silent Water
- 3
- Ghost of Perdition
- A Story Never Told
- Sorceress
- Deliverance
Conclusion
The concert solidified Opeth’s reputation as one of the premier metal bands today. Although the lighting left something to be desired for photography, the overall experience was unforgettable. If you haven’t had the chance to see Opeth live, make sure to catch their next show—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
FAQs
What time did the concert start?
The concert began in the evening, with Grand Magus taking the stage first, followed by Opeth.
Was this Opeth’s final show of the tour?
Yes, this concert at Barrowlands Ballroom marked the end of their European run promoting the ‘Last Will and Testament’ album.
How long was Grand Magus’s set?
Grand Magus delivered a concise yet powerful set that lasted around 30 minutes.
What were some highlights of the Opeth performance?
Standout moments included ‘Ghost of Perdition,’ ‘In My Time of Need,’ and the encore featuring ‘Deliverance.’
Is the Barrowlands Ballroom a good venue for concerts?
Yes, the Barrowlands Ballroom is renowned for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, making it a popular choice for live music events.
