Swedish goth/horror metallers Tribulation returned to Finland with a two date headlining tour in Jyväskylä and Helsinki along side Finnish black/crust band Mørket. Although Tribulation have come to Finland numerous times (not often enough) this was their first time headlining here. I hope the turn out has convinced them to come back soon! Again, an almost full venue on a Thursday night. Mørket definitely warmed the place up with their crazy unhinged energy! The vocalist didn’t even stay on the stage for most of the show, balancing on the railing or bouncing around in the audience! And although there wasn’t much room on the stage, the other members managed to give off the same energy, seemingly in non stop motion the whole gig. Although their music wasn’t exactly to my taste, and maybe some others in the audience, I think we felt much respect for them after their over the top and energetic set. I would love to see them at a festival!

I absolutely loved the fact that although Tribulation only played three shows on his leg of the tour (two in Finland and one in Oslo) which were smaller clubs, they still put effort into their stage decor and presentation. Not only the large backdrop and custom drums but unique details through out the rest of the setup as well. Beautiful backlit side panels reminiscent of church windows adorned with shapes of bats and skulls. Each member having their own light in front of them so they were lit from below. Large decorative incense holders for both sides of the stage complete with incense (also love that extra sensory level during live gigs!). All of those details plus their stage clothes, makeup and overall vibe fit flawlessly with their sound, tying it all together with that common horror element that has been part of their sound and aesthetic since the early years. Pure gothic/horror ambiance with a death metal core.
The fact that it was (finally) a headlining tour gave them the opportunity to play a longer set than they have previously played in Finland (which personally still felt too short!). Their set included a perfect mix of new and old despite it being the promotional tour for their latest album Sub Rosa In Æternum. Their energy felt as if it had shifted a bit, more suitable to the newer sound. A bit more chill and maybe even more polished than the last time I had seen them (opening for Ghost in 2019). Still no less unique, powerful and moody (in a good way) than before. The vibe coming from the band and the music could be felt through the entire audience. An unforgettable and much anticipated evening!

Mørket

Tribulation

photos by Serena Solomon