[CONCERT REVIEW/PHOTO RECAP] See You In The Pit: In Flames

[CONCERT REVIEW/PHOTO RECAP] See You In The Pit: In Flames

[CONCERT REVIEW/PHOTO RECAP] See You In The Pit: In Flames

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[CONCERT REVIEW/PHOTO RECAP] See You In The Pit: In Flames

On December 3rd I was treated to finally being able to see a band who I discovered through Guitar Hero. Swedish metal group In Flames kicked off their current US tour in Chicago at The Riviera Theatre, and they truly brought the house down. I watched In Flames’ 2006 Rock Am Ring performance of “My Sweet Shadow” and have since became a giant fan of the passion this band puts not only into their music, but their performance as well – to have the opportunity to photograph them was very special for me. And albeit a camera malfunction, I walked away with some photos and memories that I have captured forever.

In Flames opened with “In Plain View” a featured track off their most recent album, Siren Charms, and it truly set the tone for the evening. Anders Friden, now sporting shorter hair than his typical dread locks, headbanged left and right guiding the crowd.

Guitarists Bjorn Gelotte was the true star player of the evening though, hitting each guitar solo with every amount of gusto and energy as the last while Niclas reminded us that a man’s hair is just as important to a guitarists performance as he headbanged the entire evening away, as did bass player Peter. Holding it down in the back, Daniel Svensson put on a clinic for the crowd, a renowned drummer in his own right, showed the rhythmic force that he is.
 
[CONCERT REVIEW/PHOTO RECAP] See You In The Pit: In Flames  1

In Flames was supported by a light show that illuminated all of the Riviera Theatre. The moment that stood out the most, however, was going into the third song, Anders paused to tell the crowd, “I see many of you holding your phones, and that is great, but remember what you paid for, you came here to see us, not re-watch us through a blurry video the next day.” Unlike something I have ever seen before, many of the phones went away, and up went the classic devil horns hand gesture.

As In Flames time on stage was ending, I wondered if I would hear “My Sweet Shadow” and while I unfortunately did not, the crowd (and myself) were treated to the song that got me into the band in the first place, “Take This Life.”

In Flames is the embodiment of passion. Watching them perform is just such a delight because they put their heart into every single second of their music and performance. It was a true treat to see them kick off what I can assume is going to be a very successful tour with mates Opeth and Red Fang.

If the Communion of Sirens Tour comes your way, I highly recommend checking it out. Till next time and with photos as always.

See You In The Pit,

Greg
 

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