The air in The Academy, Dublin, was thick with anticipation for the arrival of the goblin-metal kings, Nekrogoblikon, but first, the stage was set by a formidable lineup of metal firepower, guaranteeing an intense night from start to finish.
Grief Ritual kicked off the proceedings with a punishing set of UK-based metalcore. Their sound, known for its heavy riffs, brutal breakdowns, and politically charged, venomous lyrics, successfully smashed through any early-door awkwardness. Their dual vocals and intense energy were the perfect, savage warm-up, quickly engaging the early arrivals and setting a blistering pace for the evening.
Next up, Scotland’s Party Cannon delivered a masterclass in “party slam.” Their brutal death metal sound, complete with an unconventional, almost whimsical logo, provided a stark contrast to their actual musical ferocity. They are a band built for the mosh pit, and they wasted no time in unleashing an incredibly heavy, fast-paced set that whipped the crowd into a frenzy of flailing limbs and furious headbanging. Their blend of brutality and tongue-in-cheek fun was an early highlight.
The penultimate act, Allegaeon, brought the technical wizardry. As a melodic/technical death metal band, their set showcased complex compositions, mind-bending guitar solos, and a level of sheer musicianship that left the audience in awe. They provided a much-appreciated shift in focus, balancing the raw aggression of the earlier acts with intricate, sweeping melodies and philosophical lyrical themes. Their set was a clinic in modern technical metal, proving that complexity and catchy hooks can indeed coexist.
Finally, the stage was ready for the headliners, Nekrogoblikon.
The energy surged the moment the house lights dropped. Known for their unique blend of melodic death metal, keyboard-driven flourishes, and an infectious sense of humour, the band launched into their set with explosive enthusiasm. The star of the show, beyond the fantastic musicianship, was, of course, John Goblikon. Clad in his signature goblin mask and costume, he was an absolute whirlwind, running, dancing, and gesticulating across the stage. His antics served as the ultimate hypeman, blurring the line between comedy and carnage.
Musically, the band was on fire, delivering a tight, ferocious set filled with fan-favourites like “Bears,” “Dressed as Goblins,” and “The Many Faces of Doctor Hubert Malbec.” The dual vocal approach—with the harsh vocals providing crushing brutality and the clean vocals injecting a surprisingly soaring melodic element—sounded huge in The Academy.
Nekrogoblikon’s performance is not just a concert; it’s an immersive, ridiculous, and undeniably fun metal experience. They don’t take themselves too seriously, but they perform with a professionalism and power that is utterly undeniable. The night culminated in a collective burst of chaotic energy, proving that the ‘Kings of Goblin Metal’ are a must-see live act.
An unforgettable night of diverse and brilliant metal. From the pit-starting brutality of the openers to the symphonic savagery and goblin mayhem of Nekrogoblikon, this show delivered everything a metalhead could ask for and more. If their current tour is anywhere near you, get your tickets, embrace the chaos, and show your goblin!
Allegaeon photos:
Nekrogoblikon photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Darkness
Dressed as Goblins
Row
Bones
Fiend
Going to Die
The Many Faces of Dr. Hubert Malbec
Bring Us More
Show Me Your Goblin
No One Survives
Powercore
_______________________________
The Magic Spider
This Is It
Photos & Words – David McEneaney @experimentzero