OVO Hydro Glasgow
28th January 2025
Review & Photography by Gavin Lowrey
Celebrating Two Decades of Metal
Twenty years is a significant milestone in the music industry, and for metal bands, it can feel like an eternity. As Trivium commemorates the 20th anniversary of their groundbreaking album ‘Ascendency’ and Bullet For My Valentine (BFMV) marks the same for their debut ‘The Poison’, they embark on an extensive tour featuring 24 arena shows. The tour, aptly named “The Poisoned Ascendency Tour,” reached Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, with fans eager for a night of nostalgia and heavy riffs.
Missing Orbit Culture
Unfortunately, the night did not start smoothly for some attendees. Due to administrative delays, passes were distributed just minutes before BFMV took the stage, causing many to miss the opening act, Orbit Culture. Despite this setback, the excitement in the air was palpable as fans eagerly anticipated the headliners.
Setlist and Nostalgia
While not every concert-goer relishes the idea of hearing an album played in full, for many older fans, it offers a chance to relive memories from the past. The opportunity to hear rarely played tracks makes these performances special, allowing bands to breathe new life into their classic songs.
Bullet For My Valentine Takes the Stage
As the first band to headline the night, Bullet For My Valentine kicked off with “Her Voice Resides,” igniting the crowd into a frenzy. Their impressive stage production, complete with LED graphics and a dynamic light show, set the tone for an exhilarating evening. The band’s unique stage configuration, featuring a ‘Golden Circle,’ allowed them to interact closely with fans, enhancing the overall experience.
Fan Engagement and Performance Highlights
The crowd’s enthusiasm was undeniable, especially during “Tears Don’t Fall,” which showcased guitarist Padge’s boundless energy. With six out of thirteen tracks from ‘The Poison’ not played live since 2016, it was a rare treat for fans. Standouts included “Cries in Vain” and “The End,” culminating in an encore featuring “Waking the Demon.”
Trivium’s Epic Set
After a brief intermission, Trivium took the stage, opening with Metallica’s “Hit The Lights.” The atmosphere was electric as frontman Matt Heafy engaged the audience, urging them to participate actively. With the band delivering a powerful performance, the sound quality was markedly improved compared to the earlier set, allowing the intricate guitar work and vocals to shine.
Celebrating ‘Ascendency’
Trivium’s setlist featured tracks from their iconic album ‘Ascendency,’ celebrating its legacy. The band played favorites like “Rain,” “Dying in Your Arms,” and the epic “Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation,” providing both long-time fans and newcomers a chance to experience the classics live. The encore concluded with “In Waves,” leaving the audience exhilarated.
Conclusion
Both Bullet For My Valentine and Trivium delivered unforgettable performances at the OVO Hydro, illustrating the enduring power of metal music across generations. As fans left the venue, they carried with them the energy and excitement of a night steeped in nostalgia, proving that these bands still have what it takes to captivate audiences.
FAQs
Q: What was the theme of the concert?
A: The concert celebrated the 20th anniversaries of Trivium’s ‘Ascendency’ and Bullet For My Valentine’s ‘The Poison.’
Q: Who were the opening acts for the concert?
A: Orbit Culture was scheduled to open, but many attendees missed their performance due to delays in pass distribution.
Q: How did the crowd respond to the performances?
A: The crowd was highly engaged and enthusiastic, particularly during iconic tracks from both bands, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the night.
Q: What songs were highlights of Trivium’s set?
A: Highlights included “Rain,” “Dying in Your Arms,” and “Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation,” along with the encore track “In Waves.”
Q: Was the sound quality consistent for both bands?
A: The sound quality for Trivium was noted to be better than that of Bullet For My Valentine, enhancing the overall experience for the audience.
