Artist:  Gaia Epicus & Komatoze

Venue: The Purple Turtle, London

Date: 22nd November 2011   

The Purple Turtle is another of those smaller venues that could be taken for granted.  The small size, however, does not so easily hide the passion from within.

Gaia Epicus and their support, Komatoze, are playing their last night on a nine-night consecutive tour.  One flaw in the Purple Turtle’s set-up I the inescapable guitar feedback that interrupts once in a while.

One bad thing for the band was the lack of audience, however they took it in their stride and carried on for those who were there.  First on was Komatoze, a Scottish band from 40 miles outside of Glasgow.  Even though it was near-empty, the power and passion of their playing thrummed throughout the venue – not in a cacophony but a chorus of pure metal.

The slow burn of the night was at odds with the passion of the band, a tight 4 piece with horsing around that may not have been possible, including the lead vocalist jumping off the stage and wind-milling whilst playing.  His amazing voice ripped through the notes like a knife through butter, pitch perfect and held beyond endurance, a perfect match to what they play.  Their last song was one of their new ones and whetted expectation for the next album.  The catered set-list included two covers, 'Stand Up' and 'Sucker for Love', both played expertly and showcasing the talents of the whole band.

After a short break to change and tune instruments, Gaia Epicus came onto the stage with their own intro music.  Thomas took on a different persona, wearing different clothes and sunglasses on stage, pure passion for the music they play spilled from every pore of this Norwegian power metal quartet, even those who had not been playing for long.  The introduction of each song didn’t ruin the flow, instead it helped the songs slide seamlessly into one another.  The love for what they played was obvious, even to the now slightly bigger crowd.

Gaia Epicus played not only power metal, but also some heavier stuff and some lighter stuff, yet all within the power realm.  If Thomas had hair he’d be wind-milling too.  The drummer is no older than 20 and was an amazing find, with the energy and dedication to go far.  Gaia Epicus also showcased their new album due out in December 2011.

Although the band was put together haphazardly, there is no mistaking the skill and passion of all involved.  The small crowd was not the best set for the bands, but the size of the venue allowed the music to get under the skin of those present, including the stage invasion by Komatoze at the end of the set. 

Review by: Kerry H

 

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