Helsingborg, the heart of Skåne, is a city that knows how to embrace the darker, heavier side of music. On September 21st, 2024, the legendary Tivoli played host to an unforgettable night of metal mayhem as Evergrey and Cyhra brought their electrifying live performances to the stage. This wasn’t just another gig; it was a night that showcased the very essence of modern melodic metal, proving why these two bands have earned their place in the pantheon of contemporary metal greatness.
Evergrey and Cyhra at The Tivoli
Before diving into the performances, it’s worth talking about the venue itself. The Tivoli in Helsingborg is a historic place, known for its intimate atmosphere and incredible acoustics. As soon as you step through its doors, you feel the weight of countless legendary shows that have come before. The stage is perfectly positioned, with the right balance of proximity and elevation, ensuring that no matter where you are, you’re close enough to feel the energy radiating from the bands. The bar was stocked with a good selection of local brews, and the crowd was already buzzing with anticipation as we waited for the show to begin.
Cyhra: A Perfect Blend of Melodic Intensity
Cyhra kicked off the night with an explosive set that immediately grabbed everyone’s attention. For those unfamiliar with Cyhra, the band is a supergroup of sorts, featuring former members of bands like In Flames and Amaranthe. Their sound is a perfect blend of melodic death metal and modern rock, making them a unique force in the metal scene.
The set opened with “Out of My Life,” a track that perfectly encapsulates what Cyhra is all about. The heavy riffs, combined with Jake E’s soaring vocals, created a sound that was both powerful and infectious. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, with each member feeding off the energy of the others. Jesper Strömblad’s guitar work was particularly impressive, showcasing his signature blend of melody and aggression.
As the set progressed, the band moved through tracks like “Karma” and “Here to Save You,” each one met with roars of approval from the crowd. The energy in the room was palpable, with the audience singing along to every chorus. It was clear that Cyhra has cultivated a dedicated fanbase, and they did not disappoint. The highlight of their set was undoubtedly “Man of Eternal Rain,” a track that saw the band at their most dynamic, moving seamlessly between crushing heaviness and melodic beauty.
Cyhra’s performance was tight, energetic, and above all, passionate. They have a way of connecting with the audience that is rare to see, making everyone in the room feel like they are part of something special. By the time they finished their set with “Letter to Myself,” the crowd was fully primed and ready for the main event.
Evergrey: A Masterclass in Progressive Metal
After a short break, the lights dimmed, and the room filled with an eerie atmosphere as Evergrey took the stage. The anticipation was almost unbearable, but the moment the band launched into “Forever Outsider,” it was clear that the wait had been worth it. Evergrey is a band that has been pushing the boundaries of progressive metal for over two decades, and their live performance is a testament to their mastery of the genre.
Tom S. Englund’s vocals were as haunting and powerful as ever, cutting through the heavy layers of guitars and keyboards with a sense of emotion that few can match. The band’s sound was massive, with each member contributing to a wall of sound that engulfed the venue. Songs like “A Silent Arc” and “In the Absence of Sun” showcased the band’s ability to create music that is both technically complex and deeply emotional.
One of the standout moments of the night was their performance of “The Fire.” The song is a perfect example of what makes Evergrey so unique; it’s dark, brooding, and incredibly powerful. The combination of Englund’s vocals, Rikard Zander’s atmospheric keyboards, and Jonas Ekdahl’s thunderous drumming created a soundscape that was both epic and intimate.
The setlist was a perfect mix of old and new, with tracks like “Recreation Day” and “Weightless” sitting comfortably alongside newer material. Each song was delivered with precision and passion, showcasing the band’s incredible musicianship. Evergrey’s music has a way of drawing you in, creating an immersive experience that is as much about feeling as it is about listening.
The crowd was completely captivated throughout the performance, with many fans singing along to every word. The band’s connection with the audience was palpable, with Englund frequently engaging with the crowd between songs. It’s clear that Evergrey has a deep love for their fans, and that love was reciprocated tenfold.
The encore was nothing short of spectacular, with the band returning to the stage to perform “King of Errors” and “The Grand Collapse.” These songs brought the night to a close in the most epic way possible, leaving the audience in awe of what they had just witnessed.
The Aftermath
As the final notes of “The Grand Collapse” faded into the night, there was a sense of collective euphoria in the room. This was a concert that will be remembered for a long time, not just by those who were there, but by the bands themselves. Both Cyhra and Evergrey delivered performances that were nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the very best of what modern metal has to offer.
The Tivoli proved to be the perfect venue for this kind of show, providing an intimate setting that allowed the energy of the performances to truly shine. The crowd was incredible, feeding off the energy of the bands and creating an atmosphere that was electric from start to finish.
For those who missed out on this incredible night, all I can say is that you need to make it a priority to see both Cyhra and Evergrey live as soon as possible. These are two bands that are at the top of their game, and their live shows are an experience that every metalhead needs to have.
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