It was a momentous occasion as one of the pioneers of black metal, Emperor, arrived in North America and stopped at MTELUS to perform their classics for Montreal metalheads. This storied band, part of the most legendary era of black metal, has released many classic albums that helped define the framework of the genre. MTELUS was filled to capacity to welcome these legends to our city.
To open the show, the newer band Blood Incantation took the stage before the headliners. The stage was framed by two giant obelisks etched with alien inscriptions, reinforcing the band’s cosmic theme. I had heard a great deal of hype about Blood Incantation. Their 2024 album Absolute Elsewhere was hailed by fans and critics as one of the best releases of the year, and I was eager to finally experience them live. They took the stage under dim backlighting that cast an ominous glow, delivering their distinctive take on what is often a formulaic genre.
They fused cavernous death metal vocals and primal, driving riffs with bold seventies progressive influences, weaving in synth passages and intricate guitar interludes to create a sound that felt truly otherworldly. Blood Incantation are exceptional musicians who craft a unique form of technical death metal that balances sheer brutality with moments of expansive, atmospheric beauty. I really enjoyed their set, especially how unpredictable the songs were, and they were a great opener for Emperor since both bands bring a unique vision to the stage.
Despite attending shows in Montreal since 1999, I had never had the opportunity to see Emperor live, and they were a band I had long hoped to experience. I first discovered them in 1998 through a compilation album, and their music immediately stood apart from their contemporaries. It felt more melodic, more dynamic, and more refined.
The band walked onto the stage with the composed confidence of seasoned veterans, without relying on the theatrics often associated with traditional black metal. Emperor wasted no time launching into classic material from In the Nightside Eclipse. They were in peak form as they tore into “In the Wordless Chamber” from their final studio album released in 2001, nearly twenty-five years ago.
The moment I had been waiting for came next with my favourite track, “Thus Spake the Nightspirit,” its rich melodies and hypnotic closing passage resonating deeply as the crowd sang along with intensity. The set continued with fans singing, moshing, and crowd surfing through a series of beloved songs. Ihsahn addressed the audience occasionally, offering thanks and introducing a few pieces, but for the most part the band allowed the power of their music to take centre stage.
As the show reached its conclusion, they returned to material from In the Nightside Eclipse to close the night. The crowd erupted for “I Am the Black Wizards” and “Inno a Satana.” Voices rose in unison, bodies surged overhead, and the entire room seemed immersed in the moment, united in appreciation of hearing these iconic songs performed live. The band closed with an encore of “Ye Entrancemperium,” much to the delight of the audience.
I left thoroughly satisfied after finally witnessing these legends of black metal, a band that helped shape the genre while infusing it with melody, complexity, and ambition. Opportunities to see pioneers of this stature are rare. It was a fantastic show that every fan of classic black metal could appreciate. Emperor has played Montreal only a handful of times over their long career, and I am grateful to have finally experienced them live, especially given how uncertain it is when such a chance might come again.
Review – Jason Maher
Photo – Steve Gerrard
