Photo + Words: Shelby Strainer
It was a Tuesday night in Cardiff, the perfect time for an ambient metal show. Asleep at the Helm opened the show, and hailed the stage with an overwhelming stage presence. They’re set varied from two step parts, to insane gutturals and breakdowns. Despite it being most people’s first time seeing them, they put on one hell of a show, and are definitely one to watch for sure. They’re crowd interactions for a support that had a very relaxed and ambient crowd was very good, and they tried to get as many people involved as they could and did one hell of a good job at it, as well as advertising they’re band and they’re merch, and making it clear that merch sales, and booking shows are the best ways to support bands.
Soon enough it was time for powerful atmospheric metal headliners Polar to hit the stage. Being on stage meant nothing to their lead singer who was immediately in the crowd instead, singing and screaming into people’s faces, to make sure their powerful lyrics resonated with the audience of people that showed up for them. Featuring backing vocals from their bassist and guitarist, to add to their huge sound. They had everything from breakdowns, to huge choruses, to breakdowns.
Taped Magazine 