Powerwolf at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver

The Queen Elizabeth Theatre doesn’t usually host heavy metal masses, but on September 29 it was transformed into one, thanks to Powerwolf. The night was as much spectacle as it was music, campy, and chaotic.

Originally, Dragonforce were set to open the show, but a last-minute issue with their tour bus kept them from making it to Vancouver. The absence was felt, especially by fans eager to hear “Through the Fire and Flames” live, but it didn’t take long for the crowd to shake off the disappointment once the headliners arrived.

Right away, Powerwolf claimed the stage with a gothic church backdrop and operatic flair. Attila Dorn’s booming voice turned the theatre into his own cathedral, leading the crowd through howls, chants, and massive sing-alongs on “Armata Strigoi” and “Demons Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Between the incense, the organ tones from Falk Maria Schlegel, and choreographed guitar moves from Matthew and Charles Greywolf, the show felt like a true rock opera.

By the encore, capped with “We Drink Your Blood” and “Werewolves of Armenia,” the entire floor was moving like one giant congregation. Both bands leaned into the absurd, but the musicianship was undeniable. If you wanted a reminder that metal can be both ridiculous and transcendent, this was the sermon to attend.

Check out our favourite photos of the night below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!

Upcoming Tour Dates:
Sep. 30 – Seattle, WA | Paramount Theatre
Oct. 01 – Portland, OR | The Keller Auditorium
Oct. 04 – Sacramento, CA | Aftershock Festival
More information at powerwolf.net.

POWERWOLF

All Photo Credit: Caroline Charruyer