Australian progressive rock heavyweights Karnivool played Dublin on August 13th, delivering a powerhouse set at The Academy that reminded fans exactly why they’re one of the most revered names in modern prog. Supported by the lush, atmospheric soundscapes of A Burial At Sea, the night was a showcase of technical precision and emotional depth.
Opening the evening, A Burial At Sea captivated early arrivals with their layered, instrumental post-rock. Though their set leaned heavily on mood over movement, their sound was immersive and finely textured a perfect slow-burn lead-in to what was to come.
Karnivool took the stage with the confidence and polish of a band in full command of their craft. Tracks like ‘Goliath‘ / ‘Drone’ and ‘New Day‘ hit with remarkable clarity, their complex time signatures and dynamic shifts executed with surgical precision. Frontman Ian Kenny’s vocals soared, and the rhythm section locked in tight, particularly during fan favorites where the crowd erupted in unison.
While the band’s performance was nothing short of blistering, there was a slight sense of detachment at times the set could’ve benefited from more spontaneity or interaction to break the calculated intensity. Still, it’s a minor critique in what was otherwise a masterclass in progressive musicianship.
A thunderous, emotionally charged night of prog brilliance, Karnivool remain at the top of their game, and Dublin was lucky to witness it.
A Burial At Sea photos:
Karnivool photos & set-list:
Set-list:
Drone
Goliath
Aozora
Simple Boy
Mauseum
C.O.T.E.
Ghost
Deadman
We Are
Themata
__________
All It Takes
Roquefort
New Day
Photos & words – Ian Mc Donnell @mcgigmusic