Power Metal Hammered Into Shape
All day, heavy metal fans have been treated to the unique uplifting energy that comes from power metal. We've had battle metal, cheesy power metal and even some brutal power metal. Now it's time for Hammerfall, one of the defining acts of power metal, to show everyone how it's done.
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They don't disappoint. Right from the start it's clear the band have no intention of wasting any time, heading straight into huge crunchy guitars and lyrics belted at the crowd so forcefully the first few lines of people take a step back. The setlist showcases some tracks from their recent album "Chapter V : Unbent, Unbowed, Unbroken", including the new single 'Hammer Of Justice', and it seems that the new material transfers over to the live atmosphere with just as much passion and force as classics such as 'Hearts on Fire' and 'Renegade' have tonight.
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Alongside these great chant-a-longs comes an impeccable stage presence. Frontman Joacim Cans commands respect from the audience, and his energetic presence, plus a clear dedication to providing a great stage show, makes it impossible not to punch the air and worship the hammer with everyone else. The guitar work of Stefan Elmgren and Oscar Droonjak is flawless throughout, and drummer Anders Johansson's variations are something awesome to behold. Indeed, it's the interaction between Elmgren, Droonjak and bassist Magnus Rosen that makes the band such an excellent spectacle to behold - the band are clearly enjoying themselves, making the show all the more enjoyable.
Friday's Bloodstock has been catered more towards a power metal friendly crowd, with Saturday showcasing more dynamic metal acts. Hammerfall are not well known for expanding the boundaries of power metal, preferring to stick to the tried and tested formula, but when it works this well, who's complaining?
To view all photos taken during this set click here. There are 20 available.