MetalDays 2013
Kategori: Festivals
So, my second visit to Tolmin, Slovenia! Last time it was called MetalCamp, but really it's still the same thing. Something else that's new too actually... for the first time ever I brought a camera to a festival. So there will be some shitty pictures (what what!). I'll just stick them all in the end really, because they're not very good. Don't expect this to be a regular feature though, because taking pictures isn't really my thing... this blog is more words I'll leave the band photos to the pro's.
But first, here's a picture to set the mood:
There we go. On to the bands!
Day 1 22/7
Chronosphere
First band of the festival that I saw on the second stage! Turned out to be this Thrash band from Greece. Quite enjoyable, in the same school as the other Greek Thrash bands that has come up lately. Good start indeed!
ArseA
First band I saw on the main stage was this Power Metal band... but apart from the very unfortunate name they weren't that memorable really.
The Loudest Silence
More Power Metal but with female vocals back on the second stage. Again, nothing special. That one sentence probably got you a pretty good picture of what they sounded like all ready. Not bad anyhow.
Blaakyum
After that back to the main stage where this Heavy/Thrash Metal band from the Middle-east started. Not often you get to see a band from that area, and as the singer explained that's because it's almost illegal to play Metal over there... Random prosecutions because you look like you listen to Metal and what not. Quite odd to think about it really. Another different thing was of course, coming from that area they were rather singing about peace and stopping the wars which is kind of unusual for Thrash bands... Perspective I guess.
Agan
Another more Gothic/Power Metal band that didn't really do much for me. It was all right but nothing special.
Avicularia
Croatian Technical Death Metal on the second stage was up next! And these guys fucking ruled. First new discovery for me that I thought was really damn good. Extremely well played and super technical brutality. Really nice stuff.
Croatian Technical Death Metal on the second stage was up next! And these guys fucking ruled. First new discovery for me that I thought was really damn good. Extremely well played and super technical brutality. Really nice stuff.
Darkest Horizon
Then there was some Melodic Death Metal from Germany. Pretty decent, but nothing that stood out for me.
Then there was some Melodic Death Metal from Germany. Pretty decent, but nothing that stood out for me.
Soilwork
First known band then! I've always heard that Soilwork are supposed to be really good live, so even if I've never gotten into them before I had some expectations. And well... I don't know. It was all right, but nothing special really? I guess the heat took some energy out of the guys, but overall it was just a solid performance.
First known band then! I've always heard that Soilwork are supposed to be really good live, so even if I've never gotten into them before I had some expectations. And well... I don't know. It was all right, but nothing special really? I guess the heat took some energy out of the guys, but overall it was just a solid performance.
Ensiferum
I actually saw Ensiferum not long ago at the start of their tour, so I knew pretty much exactly what to expect here. It was basically the shorter version of the same set, and it was made well indeed. I'm glad to see that they get around well these days, as the first couple of times I saw them I couldn't help but missing Jari in the band. Now when Petri stays away from clean vocals it's all good!
I actually saw Ensiferum not long ago at the start of their tour, so I knew pretty much exactly what to expect here. It was basically the shorter version of the same set, and it was made well indeed. I'm glad to see that they get around well these days, as the first couple of times I saw them I couldn't help but missing Jari in the band. Now when Petri stays away from clean vocals it's all good!
I was kind of hoping for a guest appearance by Jari too... but I guess he hadn't arrived to the festival yet. Ahwell.
In either case, nice show for sure!
Hammercult
Then some underground Death Metal from Israel. Fast stuff, really aggressive. Didn't really get into it though. Something about their sound was a bit off turning for me. They had lots of energy though, got the crowd going for a bit.
Then some underground Death Metal from Israel. Fast stuff, really aggressive. Didn't really get into it though. Something about their sound was a bit off turning for me. They had lots of energy though, got the crowd going for a bit.
Overkill
And then some classic Thrash from the US. I've never really been into these guys, the vocal style is just one of those things you need to be in the mood for I think. I wasn't really this night so just watched a couple of songs before going back to the second stage again.
And then some classic Thrash from the US. I've never really been into these guys, the vocal style is just one of those things you need to be in the mood for I think. I wasn't really this night so just watched a couple of songs before going back to the second stage again.
Benediction
Here we go. Oldschool Death Metal from England! These guys aren't very active with their touring so I didn't think I'd ever get a chance to see them actually. So this was a nice addition to the line up indeed! They've been around for over twenty years now, and well bands that have been around for that long usually knows what they're doing on the stage. No difference here, and the crowd got quite worked up as well. Damn good show.
Here we go. Oldschool Death Metal from England! These guys aren't very active with their touring so I didn't think I'd ever get a chance to see them actually. So this was a nice addition to the line up indeed! They've been around for over twenty years now, and well bands that have been around for that long usually knows what they're doing on the stage. No difference here, and the crowd got quite worked up as well. Damn good show.
In Flames
Never been a fan of In Flames, but after Benediction I was tired so I sat down in the back and watched some In Flames anyway. I heard about six or seven songs... only one song from Whoracle, the rest was new stuff that I hadn't even heard before. Didn't impress me much either. And then the talk between the songs... it was so bad. Whining and wailing about a long trip there? Come on, you can do better than that.
Never been a fan of In Flames, but after Benediction I was tired so I sat down in the back and watched some In Flames anyway. I heard about six or seven songs... only one song from Whoracle, the rest was new stuff that I hadn't even heard before. Didn't impress me much either. And then the talk between the songs... it was so bad. Whining and wailing about a long trip there? Come on, you can do better than that.
Pentagram
Last up for the night were these true Doom veterans from the US. I'm not a huge Doom fan, but I guess these guys are a bit of a must see. It sounded really nice though, but at this time I was tired and had food poisoning in my system so I didn't stay for that long. Heard the rest of the set from my tent though, and really nice sound for sure.
Last up for the night were these true Doom veterans from the US. I'm not a huge Doom fan, but I guess these guys are a bit of a must see. It sounded really nice though, but at this time I was tired and had food poisoning in my system so I didn't stay for that long. Heard the rest of the set from my tent though, and really nice sound for sure.
Day 2 - 22/7
Calling of Lorme
Industrial Metal from England or if it was France. Can't remember. Not my thing at all.
Industrial Metal from England or if it was France. Can't remember. Not my thing at all.
SpitFire
A trio from Munich, Germany playing some nice Heavy Metal! They reminded me a lot about Rage, and that's definitely a good thing. So if you're into that sort of thing definitely check them out!
A trio from Munich, Germany playing some nice Heavy Metal! They reminded me a lot about Rage, and that's definitely a good thing. So if you're into that sort of thing definitely check them out!
Acid Death
Slovenian Death Metal on the second stage that has been around for quite some time indeed. Pretty oldschool sounding and I quite enjoyed it. Looked a bit weird though because the singer had a headset... But pretty nice set anyway!
Slovenian Death Metal on the second stage that has been around for quite some time indeed. Pretty oldschool sounding and I quite enjoyed it. Looked a bit weird though because the singer had a headset... But pretty nice set anyway!
Drakum
Folk Metal from Spain up next, complete with the silly armour and everything. The music was nice, but I really didn't like the vocals on this one. Also it feels a bit silly when they're so obviously trying to copy the Finnish bands... So the song titles "Beer", "Vodka" etc are taken... so lets name a song "Whisky"! Original guys, really!
Folk Metal from Spain up next, complete with the silly armour and everything. The music was nice, but I really didn't like the vocals on this one. Also it feels a bit silly when they're so obviously trying to copy the Finnish bands... So the song titles "Beer", "Vodka" etc are taken... so lets name a song "Whisky"! Original guys, really!
Gloryhammer
I was told to go see them. I didn't really want to, but they were supposed to be fun. I'm really not into this kind of Power Metal any more. They had some cute green armour though. So after one song (that felt really, really long) the singer asked "Are you ready for one more?" Hm... yeah maybe one more... "A long one?!" Hell no. I left.
I was told to go see them. I didn't really want to, but they were supposed to be fun. I'm really not into this kind of Power Metal any more. They had some cute green armour though. So after one song (that felt really, really long) the singer asked "Are you ready for one more?" Hm... yeah maybe one more... "A long one?!" Hell no. I left.
Mustasch
So since it was afternoon I actually went for a power nap after Gloryhammer, but I could still hear Mustasch from the tent. Seen them before anyway, and I got back out to watch the last two songs or so. Now, I own three albums from these guys... and yet I didn't recognise a single song they played. Huh. Seems they've turned a bit darker lyric wise while still sounding the same. Not bad.
So since it was afternoon I actually went for a power nap after Gloryhammer, but I could still hear Mustasch from the tent. Seen them before anyway, and I got back out to watch the last two songs or so. Now, I own three albums from these guys... and yet I didn't recognise a single song they played. Huh. Seems they've turned a bit darker lyric wise while still sounding the same. Not bad.
Nemesis My Enemy
Another of those bands that I can't really remember what they sounded like... I noted that I saw them but uhm...
Another of those bands that I can't really remember what they sounded like... I noted that I saw them but uhm...
Mystery
Some Hair Metal band. I didn't stay long. How they could stand wearing tight leather pants in the heat is beyond me however.
Some Hair Metal band. I didn't stay long. How they could stand wearing tight leather pants in the heat is beyond me however.
Extreme Smoke 57
One of those super-serious Grindcore bands. I think they mostly just improvised the set really. Hard to tell sometimes... Oh, and first band I see live that use synth drums I think.
One of those super-serious Grindcore bands. I think they mostly just improvised the set really. Hard to tell sometimes... Oh, and first band I see live that use synth drums I think.
Arkona
Slava Rossii! I saw Arkona at MetalCamp last time I was there as well, so I knew what to expect here! I still don't understand how Misha can wear those skins in a climate like this... however this day there was some rain just before Arkona went on stage so the temperature was actually bearable despite the sun still being up!
Slava Rossii! I saw Arkona at MetalCamp last time I was there as well, so I knew what to expect here! I still don't understand how Misha can wear those skins in a climate like this... however this day there was some rain just before Arkona went on stage so the temperature was actually bearable despite the sun still being up!
So Arkona is lots of energy on stage, catchy folk tunes and super heavy parts all mixed in one. Really great connection with the crowd as well, with hand clapping in different patterns and singing. Last time I saw them there was a lot more dancing going on though, so was surprised to see the crowd being pretty still. Ahwell, you can't have it all. Great show nevertheless!
Alestorm
Another band that played last time I was at MetalCamp, but this time they had moved to the main stage instead of the second stage. Not really my kind of thing, so I sat down in the back and watched them for a couple of songs. This time around they were just playing their stuff and tried to get it over with really, no costumes no nothing. Not a good day for them, and well, the singer threw up on stage so...
Another band that played last time I was at MetalCamp, but this time they had moved to the main stage instead of the second stage. Not really my kind of thing, so I sat down in the back and watched them for a couple of songs. This time around they were just playing their stuff and tried to get it over with really, no costumes no nothing. Not a good day for them, and well, the singer threw up on stage so...
Torche
Stoner Metal from the US. Not really my thing, so only watched a couple of songs before moving on. They seemed to have a crowd going though.
Stoner Metal from the US. Not really my thing, so only watched a couple of songs before moving on. They seemed to have a crowd going though.
Vicious Rumours
So these guys were the last minute replacement for My Dying Bride, and I guess some people were quite disappointed by that. Pretty all right Heavy/Power Metal anyway, but still Power Metal isn't really my thing these days. Still entertaining enough to stay while waiting for the next band.
So these guys were the last minute replacement for My Dying Bride, and I guess some people were quite disappointed by that. Pretty all right Heavy/Power Metal anyway, but still Power Metal isn't really my thing these days. Still entertaining enough to stay while waiting for the next band.
Samael
Whenever talk of Morbid Angels latest album comes up I always say something like I don't mind the genre per say, but Morbid Angel does such a poor job of it... and then I mention Samael as an example of how it's done right. So I was really curious to see them live as well. That turned out quite disappointing however... because Samael turned out to be the second band that uses synth drums live that I've seen. And that really killed the feeling. The drum sound was so static and boring so the whole thing just made me sleepy. In fact, I went for a power nap instead of watching the whole set...
Whenever talk of Morbid Angels latest album comes up I always say something like I don't mind the genre per say, but Morbid Angel does such a poor job of it... and then I mention Samael as an example of how it's done right. So I was really curious to see them live as well. That turned out quite disappointing however... because Samael turned out to be the second band that uses synth drums live that I've seen. And that really killed the feeling. The drum sound was so static and boring so the whole thing just made me sleepy. In fact, I went for a power nap instead of watching the whole set...
Mayhem
Woke up about halfway into Mayhems set. Thing is I've never really liked Mayhem. I respect them for what they do, but they've never sounded any good to me. And the last time I saw them they were so boring. And well, absolutely nothing has changed since then. They're still very boring live. At least last time I saw them was a smaller venue so Attilas thingies he does has some more effect. Here it just felt silly.
Woke up about halfway into Mayhems set. Thing is I've never really liked Mayhem. I respect them for what they do, but they've never sounded any good to me. And the last time I saw them they were so boring. And well, absolutely nothing has changed since then. They're still very boring live. At least last time I saw them was a smaller venue so Attilas thingies he does has some more effect. Here it just felt silly.
Exhumed
I had the pleasure of seeing these guys just a few months ago so I knew this would be awesome. Now, they've been on a really long tour (four months I think?) so stuff are starting to break down... but basically it was the same show like I saw a few months ago but just a little bit more broken. Still funny, still rocking. Grindcore is usually not my thing, but this groovy take on it really appeals to me. Damn fine way to end the night.
I had the pleasure of seeing these guys just a few months ago so I knew this would be awesome. Now, they've been on a really long tour (four months I think?) so stuff are starting to break down... but basically it was the same show like I saw a few months ago but just a little bit more broken. Still funny, still rocking. Grindcore is usually not my thing, but this groovy take on it really appeals to me. Damn fine way to end the night.
Also a bit funny that we got a special song, a cover medley with some Metallica and Judas Priest in it etc. The whole thing ended with a Power Metal-scream from the bassist. Or well, the set ended and they went off the stage and people started leaving, but then the singer came back on stage and said "Well since we're the last band, I have a score to settle!" and then let out an even more epic Power Metal scream. The crowd screamed back and he realised he was on to something and started a sing-along game for a couple of minutes... just goes to show when a band connects with the crowd and can mess around for a bit!
Day 3 - 24/7
Stormcast
So, on this day the running order changes started so stuff might be in the wrong order here, but no matter...
So, on this day the running order changes started so stuff might be in the wrong order here, but no matter...
First band was Stormcast from Cyprus! They were supposed to play later so sadly I only caught their last song. Atmospheric Black Metal that sounded really nice from what I could tell.
However I think the MetalDays crew made a mistake putting a band with "Storm" in the name first on the day... because soon after the band stopped playing the heavens opened and we got quite the storm going...
Dickless Tracy
Meanwhile on the main stage this Grindcore band played on. Grind isn't really my thing, but it sounded like some decent Grind.
Meanwhile on the main stage this Grindcore band played on. Grind isn't really my thing, but it sounded like some decent Grind.
Gonoba
Melodic Death Metal from Slovenia! All though they're labelled as "Technical Thrash" in some places, which is a pretty similar genre anyway. Pretty good stuff in either case, but I wasn't a big fan on the singer. Overall pretty good though.
Melodic Death Metal from Slovenia! All though they're labelled as "Technical Thrash" in some places, which is a pretty similar genre anyway. Pretty good stuff in either case, but I wasn't a big fan on the singer. Overall pretty good though.
Inverted Pussyfix
More Grindcore on the main stage... with pig squeals. One of the two singers actually had a pig snout on as well. Yeah.
More Grindcore on the main stage... with pig squeals. One of the two singers actually had a pig snout on as well. Yeah.
Within Destruction
After a bit of a still in the rain it came back with a vengeance during these Slovenian Death Metallers set. I thought standing under a tree with protect me some, but no, way too heavy rain. Which meant that most of the crowd stood in the pizza tent in the back and the drinking tent to the side. A few people was up front, doing headspins for most of the set. It was a bit hard to focus on the band really, I could barely see them through the rain so...
After a bit of a still in the rain it came back with a vengeance during these Slovenian Death Metallers set. I thought standing under a tree with protect me some, but no, way too heavy rain. Which meant that most of the crowd stood in the pizza tent in the back and the drinking tent to the side. A few people was up front, doing headspins for most of the set. It was a bit hard to focus on the band really, I could barely see them through the rain so...
Space Unicorn on Fire
Not a Space Unicorn. But a Space Unicron on Fire. I had to see that. By this time I had switched to my bathing shorts (because ironically they were more dry than my regular shorts...) and the rain slowed down to a tickle. So they could still be on fire after all! Turned out to be what I like to call no balls Power Metal. With very serious lyrics.
Not a Space Unicorn. But a Space Unicron on Fire. I had to see that. By this time I had switched to my bathing shorts (because ironically they were more dry than my regular shorts...) and the rain slowed down to a tickle. So they could still be on fire after all! Turned out to be what I like to call no balls Power Metal. With very serious lyrics.
They had also made a deal with the biggest porno chain in Slovenia to print two boxes of special condoms with the Space Unicorn on Fire-logo on them... Sadly I didn't get one, I'd framed it and put it on the wall. Pretty funny anyway.
Nightmare
On to the main stage where Nightmare from France started their set. They play a Heavy Power Metal style, ie they have the high pitched vocals but mix it up with some rougher stuff and more balls as well as pretty Thrashy riffs at times. Now, if I'm going to listen to Power Metal this is the kind I chose, so this was a really nice surprise actually. I enjoyed their set, pretty nice stuff.
On to the main stage where Nightmare from France started their set. They play a Heavy Power Metal style, ie they have the high pitched vocals but mix it up with some rougher stuff and more balls as well as pretty Thrashy riffs at times. Now, if I'm going to listen to Power Metal this is the kind I chose, so this was a really nice surprise actually. I enjoyed their set, pretty nice stuff.
Orange Goblin
"We apologise for bringing the English weather guys, but don't be afraid of some mud come closer!". Stoner Metal from England indeed, and well not really my kind of thing here but they did it really nice. Pretty funny that the singer actually had a smoother voice when singing than when he was talking. Pretty nice anyhow, and they had a pretty large crowd despite the trickling rain.
"We apologise for bringing the English weather guys, but don't be afraid of some mud come closer!". Stoner Metal from England indeed, and well not really my kind of thing here but they did it really nice. Pretty funny that the singer actually had a smoother voice when singing than when he was talking. Pretty nice anyhow, and they had a pretty large crowd despite the trickling rain.
Brutal Truth
Rain had basically stopped at this point, just a few drops now and then. Which revealed a forest fire in the mountains from a lightning strike I guess. Looked a bit like a eruption from a volcano and the smoke came all the way to my tent. Anyway, no real harm done and off to see Brutal Truth.
Rain had basically stopped at this point, just a few drops now and then. Which revealed a forest fire in the mountains from a lightning strike I guess. Looked a bit like a eruption from a volcano and the smoke came all the way to my tent. Anyway, no real harm done and off to see Brutal Truth.
Oldschool Death Metal from the US, and their singer must have the most unlikely look for a singer in a Death Metal band ever. Older man, huge beard which has turned mostly grey, fisherman hat, brown shirt and green shorts... slightly overweight. Basically he looked like an old farmer or fisherman... The music was pretty damn good however.
And if you got bored of watching the band, well then the mosh pit had turned into mudwrestling. And the guys really kept it going all show...
Bliksem
Thrash from Belgium. I only managed to see two songs, but it sounded pretty nice. Solid Thrash, nothing to complicate things. Pretty nice from what I could hear.
Thrash from Belgium. I only managed to see two songs, but it sounded pretty nice. Solid Thrash, nothing to complicate things. Pretty nice from what I could hear.
Turisas
Turisas then! I have kind of lost track of these guys. I really liked their two first albums but haven't really heard anything since then. I just kind of lost interest I guess. They seemed to be a crowd favourite however, judging by all the red painted faces showing up.
Turisas then! I have kind of lost track of these guys. I really liked their two first albums but haven't really heard anything since then. I just kind of lost interest I guess. They seemed to be a crowd favourite however, judging by all the red painted faces showing up.
Very solid set anyhow, and great atmosphere. Finally some dancing that I expected from Arkona happened, with congalines running around and what not. Warlord Nygård is also really good frontman, he knows what to say to get the crowd on his side. For example he praised Slovenian beer, but only Lasko and not Union. By the reaction I judge that was a good call indeed. Some political statement drinking beer in Slovenia apparently, but Nygård went around that by simply praising the taste. Smoothly done!
Meshuggah
Actually my first time seeing Meshuggah! Quite odd actually. But it's never too late I guess.
Actually my first time seeing Meshuggah! Quite odd actually. But it's never too late I guess.
Now, Meshuggah at their best is just awesome. Close your eyes and end up in some kind of trance. Chose a rhythm (there' be plenty to chose from...) and just feel it. If you don't want to close your eyes they had a pretty awesome light show going on. Hard to describe, but it looked amazing, dark (yes, created by lights!) and really added to the atmosphere. Another thing that is also so good is that Jens doesn't really talk in between songs. He shuts up, and doesn't interrupt the flow. It's simply awesome.
Dying Fetus
So... after Meshuggah Dying Fetus felt very... easy to listen to. Very straightforward... which they really are not. Super technical Death Metal at insane speeds, but playing after Meshuggah really took the edge off them for me. So I can't really give a fair impression here, would like to see them another time in another context...
So... after Meshuggah Dying Fetus felt very... easy to listen to. Very straightforward... which they really are not. Super technical Death Metal at insane speeds, but playing after Meshuggah really took the edge off them for me. So I can't really give a fair impression here, would like to see them another time in another context...
Taake
After a bit of a break (skipping Sonata Arctica) back to the second stage and Taake. I've seen them three times now, and they always deliver. You know exactly what you'll get. Black Metal, Norwegian between the songs, high kicks, Norwegian flag, self crucifixion and a very angry Hoest. So yeah, really nice show. We did get one surprise though, as Atilla (Mayhem) came on stage for one song. That was quite interesting. One of the worst frontmen in Black Metal on the same stage as one of the very best. While Hoest was egging on the crowd, getting everyone pumped up Atilla just stood there in the background gurgling some backing vocals. It didn't really add anything, but then again since he's such a non-presence on stage it didn't take anything away either so...
After a bit of a break (skipping Sonata Arctica) back to the second stage and Taake. I've seen them three times now, and they always deliver. You know exactly what you'll get. Black Metal, Norwegian between the songs, high kicks, Norwegian flag, self crucifixion and a very angry Hoest. So yeah, really nice show. We did get one surprise though, as Atilla (Mayhem) came on stage for one song. That was quite interesting. One of the worst frontmen in Black Metal on the same stage as one of the very best. While Hoest was egging on the crowd, getting everyone pumped up Atilla just stood there in the background gurgling some backing vocals. It didn't really add anything, but then again since he's such a non-presence on stage it didn't take anything away either so...
And then for the end of the show... Hoest was going to say something but the crowd started chanting "We want more"... he told everyone to shut up, but one guy kept screaming. So Hoest simply said "Truth is we don't have any more songs" went off the stage and didn't come back. I'm pretty sure he was going to say something else and they'd play another song because they had some 10-15 minutes more to play, but the crowd just pissed him off and there you go. Don't demand anything from Hoest. You should know that really.
Day 4 - 25/7
Imperium
So I was chilling at the beach bar in the morning and two girls come up and tell me that this band has come all the way from Mexico so it would be cool if I could come see them. And yeah sure, why not! Pretty good idea to do some commercial when you have such a bad time slot (12:30... not many people are up by then...). Turned out to be Melodic Death Metal, and quite decent as well. Well worth the time at least!
So I was chilling at the beach bar in the morning and two girls come up and tell me that this band has come all the way from Mexico so it would be cool if I could come see them. And yeah sure, why not! Pretty good idea to do some commercial when you have such a bad time slot (12:30... not many people are up by then...). Turned out to be Melodic Death Metal, and quite decent as well. Well worth the time at least!
Ravenblood
And again commercial, got a flyer from this band the night before where they described themselves as "Epic Death Metal" for fans of Wintersun, Kalmah etc. So why not? This time from Spain however, and they turned out to be one step better than Imperium. I quite liked their set indeed, and they definitely have something going here. Unlike Imperium they also had a very good stage presence as well so it was entertaining to watch also!
And again commercial, got a flyer from this band the night before where they described themselves as "Epic Death Metal" for fans of Wintersun, Kalmah etc. So why not? This time from Spain however, and they turned out to be one step better than Imperium. I quite liked their set indeed, and they definitely have something going here. Unlike Imperium they also had a very good stage presence as well so it was entertaining to watch also!
Meta-stasis
Nu Metal from England. Cool outfits. Not my style, left quickly.
Nu Metal from England. Cool outfits. Not my style, left quickly.
Vallorch
Then it was time for some "Balkan Metal"like they said themselves, funnily enough they're not from Balkan though but from Italy. However, if you're not familiar with the term it means some folk instruments like accordion, violin, mouth harps, whistles and bagpipes. And very, very catchy tunes. This was quite awesome, just one of those bands that gets your head bobbing automatically and the crowd dancing (if they're drunk enough). So much energy on the stage as well, they were all running around all over the place. This was really nice!
Then it was time for some "Balkan Metal"like they said themselves, funnily enough they're not from Balkan though but from Italy. However, if you're not familiar with the term it means some folk instruments like accordion, violin, mouth harps, whistles and bagpipes. And very, very catchy tunes. This was quite awesome, just one of those bands that gets your head bobbing automatically and the crowd dancing (if they're drunk enough). So much energy on the stage as well, they were all running around all over the place. This was really nice!
Sólstafir
I think the first band from Iceland that I see live actually. Personally I like their early stuff more than their later stuff, and unfortunately this set was only newer stuff. It was still pretty nice however, lots of feeling in their set. I think this was one of the bands that suffered the most from the sun however, the poor guys were red as tomatoes. Nice set to chill out to anyway, but would've been better on the second stage I think! A bit more intimate and such.
I think the first band from Iceland that I see live actually. Personally I like their early stuff more than their later stuff, and unfortunately this set was only newer stuff. It was still pretty nice however, lots of feeling in their set. I think this was one of the bands that suffered the most from the sun however, the poor guys were red as tomatoes. Nice set to chill out to anyway, but would've been better on the second stage I think! A bit more intimate and such.
Anaal Nathrakh
Again, Grindcore isn't really my thing and last time I was on a festival where these guys where playing I actually skipped them. This time I watched three or four songs though, and it was all right. I mean, the clean vocals does put a certain touch to their otherwise typical Grindcore sound, which keeps it a bit more interesting.
Again, Grindcore isn't really my thing and last time I was on a festival where these guys where playing I actually skipped them. This time I watched three or four songs though, and it was all right. I mean, the clean vocals does put a certain touch to their otherwise typical Grindcore sound, which keeps it a bit more interesting.
Ihshan
Back to Norway! I really like Ihshans first album... but after that I kind of lost him. I'm not sure what's going on in his songs any more and it's just a bit too much. I've seen him before, and that was pretty cool but eventually it got a bit boring. Pretty much the same thing happened here, it was nice for two songs or so but after that I just felt my thoughts drifting away instead of actually listening. I don't know, his music just doesn't quite work live for me.
Back to Norway! I really like Ihshans first album... but after that I kind of lost him. I'm not sure what's going on in his songs any more and it's just a bit too much. I've seen him before, and that was pretty cool but eventually it got a bit boring. Pretty much the same thing happened here, it was nice for two songs or so but after that I just felt my thoughts drifting away instead of actually listening. I don't know, his music just doesn't quite work live for me.
Lock Up
Something that's impossible to drift away from is Lock Up. In your face Grindcore indeed. Again... not my style, but Lock Up (and Exhumed) breaks the pattern. It's kind of the best of the bunch, and it just shows through. With an all-star band like this it's hard to fail I think. Tompa was also in a quite good mood, making jokes and firing up the crowd. Teasing Mr Barker for how much he was sweating, bringing in the crowd and all that good stuff. I was kind of hoping for a guest appearance by Tägtgren since Hypocrisy played the same festival and he did sing on one album... but I guess he was bust preparing or something. Superb performance in either case, and I expected no less.
Something that's impossible to drift away from is Lock Up. In your face Grindcore indeed. Again... not my style, but Lock Up (and Exhumed) breaks the pattern. It's kind of the best of the bunch, and it just shows through. With an all-star band like this it's hard to fail I think. Tompa was also in a quite good mood, making jokes and firing up the crowd. Teasing Mr Barker for how much he was sweating, bringing in the crowd and all that good stuff. I was kind of hoping for a guest appearance by Tägtgren since Hypocrisy played the same festival and he did sing on one album... but I guess he was bust preparing or something. Superb performance in either case, and I expected no less.
Annihilator
This brand of American Thrash has never really appealed to me, but I went to see them anyway. Because sometimes stuff just works better live. But no, not this time either. I think it gets kind of dull somehow, and it lacks the power and energy of the German Thrash bands for example. The band didn't seem to have a great day either, was pretty much just another day at work from what I could tell. And that certainly doesn't help the overall impression.
This brand of American Thrash has never really appealed to me, but I went to see them anyway. Because sometimes stuff just works better live. But no, not this time either. I think it gets kind of dull somehow, and it lacks the power and energy of the German Thrash bands for example. The band didn't seem to have a great day either, was pretty much just another day at work from what I could tell. And that certainly doesn't help the overall impression.
Onslaught
Speaking of energetic Thrash, here we go. Onslaught from England. Seen them before, and here we have lots of pure energy. They got the crowd going from the get go and didn't really let go, just kept it coming and coming. Pretty damn solid set if you ask me, really enjoyed it!
Speaking of energetic Thrash, here we go. Onslaught from England. Seen them before, and here we have lots of pure energy. They got the crowd going from the get go and didn't really let go, just kept it coming and coming. Pretty damn solid set if you ask me, really enjoyed it!
Hypocrisy
Hypocrisy... fifth time I see them. Got there just in time for the first song and stayed for about half the set (a hectic day this with some overlaps...). Unfortunately for me I haven't really gotten into the latest album. I like it, but it's nowhere near the last one for me. And well, since they're out promoting the new album the first half of the set was basically only the new songs. Still nice, still good old Hypocrisy and crazy Tägtgren up there, but I probably missed the songs I really wanted to see since I had to run off to catch a band I hadn't seen before.
Hypocrisy... fifth time I see them. Got there just in time for the first song and stayed for about half the set (a hectic day this with some overlaps...). Unfortunately for me I haven't really gotten into the latest album. I like it, but it's nowhere near the last one for me. And well, since they're out promoting the new album the first half of the set was basically only the new songs. Still nice, still good old Hypocrisy and crazy Tägtgren up there, but I probably missed the songs I really wanted to see since I had to run off to catch a band I hadn't seen before.
Enslaved
And that was Enslaved from Norway. This I was really looking forwards too. Their very progressive style, mixed with the, what I think is typical for Norwegian Black Metal, dry growl and then some clean vocals on top makes their sound pretty special. It's a huge soundscape, dark but still with lots of energy. Lots of emotion in there, with the long songs that are kind of little stories.
And that was Enslaved from Norway. This I was really looking forwards too. Their very progressive style, mixed with the, what I think is typical for Norwegian Black Metal, dry growl and then some clean vocals on top makes their sound pretty special. It's a huge soundscape, dark but still with lots of energy. Lots of emotion in there, with the long songs that are kind of little stories.
Then you add some really experienced and talented musicians and a frontman that is very charismatic and you have a recipe for success. Awesome show. Wish they could've played for more than one hour.
Iced Earth
Someone once described Iced Earth to me as "Connect the dots Metal". I think this is quite accurate actually. They have all the ingredients for Heavy Metal. Galloping riffs, melodic leads, high pitched vocals, falsetto screams, heavy riffs... And well, while they do their thing good I find that it's a bit too predictable. Even when I've not heard a song before I just know exactly what's coming next. I could even predict the setlist (not actual songs, but order of style of songs). But ohwell.
Someone once described Iced Earth to me as "Connect the dots Metal". I think this is quite accurate actually. They have all the ingredients for Heavy Metal. Galloping riffs, melodic leads, high pitched vocals, falsetto screams, heavy riffs... And well, while they do their thing good I find that it's a bit too predictable. Even when I've not heard a song before I just know exactly what's coming next. I could even predict the setlist (not actual songs, but order of style of songs). But ohwell.
New singer since last time I saw them anyhow, and he sounds pretty good. He does justice to the old songs, but I really didn't like his falsetto. It sounded really off to me, so I think he should stick to the normal vocals instead... Jon pulled off some really nice solos though.
Shining
I never really got the point of Depressive Black Metal playing live. I think it's not very suiting at all really. Anyway. Shining. They don't really sound like Black Metal at all, with way too melodic guitars for the typical band and all that. And that's two awesome guitar players as well. The things they played together was just awesome. At one point the rest of the band got off the stage and just let them play together and it was so good. So damn good. But unfortunately they also have a vocalist, and a very bad one at that. Neither is he a good frontman, because he's trying to be difficult and misunderstood and he wants you to feel sorry for him. He got on stage, slit his wrists, drank from a bottle of spirits and screamed a bit. Went on to go whine and moan and bitch at the sound guys constantly. I wish they'd just turned his microphone off instead. Shining should be instrumental in my opinion.
I never really got the point of Depressive Black Metal playing live. I think it's not very suiting at all really. Anyway. Shining. They don't really sound like Black Metal at all, with way too melodic guitars for the typical band and all that. And that's two awesome guitar players as well. The things they played together was just awesome. At one point the rest of the band got off the stage and just let them play together and it was so good. So damn good. But unfortunately they also have a vocalist, and a very bad one at that. Neither is he a good frontman, because he's trying to be difficult and misunderstood and he wants you to feel sorry for him. He got on stage, slit his wrists, drank from a bottle of spirits and screamed a bit. Went on to go whine and moan and bitch at the sound guys constantly. I wish they'd just turned his microphone off instead. Shining should be instrumental in my opinion.
Legion of the Damned
Anyhow, Shining clashed with Legion of the Damned so off I went to see them. Now, last time I was at MetalCamp these guys were playing as well. That time they had the biggest mosh pit going I had ever seen (that record only lasted until later the same evening however when Kreator got on stage). So I was quite surprised to come to this gig and seeing a very... placid crowd. Some scattered headbanging here and there but no pit in sight. Quite surprising! Because they didn't do a bad show either, they did as they usually do and Thrash away. Well, my neck got some punishment at least.
Anyhow, Shining clashed with Legion of the Damned so off I went to see them. Now, last time I was at MetalCamp these guys were playing as well. That time they had the biggest mosh pit going I had ever seen (that record only lasted until later the same evening however when Kreator got on stage). So I was quite surprised to come to this gig and seeing a very... placid crowd. Some scattered headbanging here and there but no pit in sight. Quite surprising! Because they didn't do a bad show either, they did as they usually do and Thrash away. Well, my neck got some punishment at least.
Another odd thing is that for every time I see these guys the singers hair gets 1 dm shorter... So if I see them another ten times, will he be bald...?
Day 5 - 26/7
Eternal Deformity
Well, last day of the festival and I had lots of bands to see! But first on the list was actually a band I had no idea about and I just happened to catch them because I was chilling around the second stage. Turned out to be some really awesome Melodic Death Metal of the slower kind from Poland. Very ungrateful timeslot to play in though as not many people showed up... I really enjoyed the set anyway!
Well, last day of the festival and I had lots of bands to see! But first on the list was actually a band I had no idea about and I just happened to catch them because I was chilling around the second stage. Turned out to be some really awesome Melodic Death Metal of the slower kind from Poland. Very ungrateful timeslot to play in though as not many people showed up... I really enjoyed the set anyway!
Phantasmagoria
Amazing name. But turned out to be Industrial stuff. So I was put off pretty quickly.
Amazing name. But turned out to be Industrial stuff. So I was put off pretty quickly.
Rising Dream
Instead I headed off to the main stage for the first band there... and they had changed the running order so these guys and girl were on. If you look them up they're described as "Power Metal with Melodic Death Metal Influences". To me it sounded more like it was the other way around really, but hey. Girl on vocals anyhow, and she had a really good voice for both growls and singing. So turned out to be pretty good!
Instead I headed off to the main stage for the first band there... and they had changed the running order so these guys and girl were on. If you look them up they're described as "Power Metal with Melodic Death Metal Influences". To me it sounded more like it was the other way around really, but hey. Girl on vocals anyhow, and she had a really good voice for both growls and singing. So turned out to be pretty good!
Under the Abyss
Heavy Metal from France. I really didn't like the singer here... everything sounded a bit off. Maybe they had a bad day?
Heavy Metal from France. I really didn't like the singer here... everything sounded a bit off. Maybe they had a bad day?
Bloodshot Dawn
Some Technical Death Metal from the UK instead then! Mainstage unfortunately. Around 14 o'clock... I heard it was almost 40 degrees Celsius hot that day. The singer commented "I would ask for a Wall of Death... but I think it'd be a bit too literal in this climate..." and he was probably right too. Damn well-played set however, must've been exhausting to play at those speeds in that heat. Still they were completely spot on at all times. Really nice!
Some Technical Death Metal from the UK instead then! Mainstage unfortunately. Around 14 o'clock... I heard it was almost 40 degrees Celsius hot that day. The singer commented "I would ask for a Wall of Death... but I think it'd be a bit too literal in this climate..." and he was probably right too. Damn well-played set however, must've been exhausting to play at those speeds in that heat. Still they were completely spot on at all times. Really nice!
Karlahan
I remember back when the official Wintersun Message Board was still active... and this is his band (hi Jordi, if you read this!) so I had to see them. You may guess they play Melodic Death Metal by the above, and they're from Spain. Wintersun is an obvious influence indeed, but they definitely have their own touch to it all. They only had time for four songs, which were all really nice. Great build ups and melodies going on, mixed with some really fast parts. Really nice guitar work from two guitar players with very different styles! I really like to see that, as usually these kind of bands have two guitar players with the same style and way of playing. So refreshing with something different!
I remember back when the official Wintersun Message Board was still active... and this is his band (hi Jordi, if you read this!) so I had to see them. You may guess they play Melodic Death Metal by the above, and they're from Spain. Wintersun is an obvious influence indeed, but they definitely have their own touch to it all. They only had time for four songs, which were all really nice. Great build ups and melodies going on, mixed with some really fast parts. Really nice guitar work from two guitar players with very different styles! I really like to see that, as usually these kind of bands have two guitar players with the same style and way of playing. So refreshing with something different!
Graveworm
Then off to catch the end of Graveworm... some Melodic/Gothic Black Metal from Italy. I tend to not be a big fan of bands that use the "Gothic" style, to me it feels like everything is just keyboards. And well, that can be fine too, but the bands Gothic sound usually all sound pretty much the same. Graveworm didn't feel much different in that regard either. I think I was mostly not in the mood for this style though.
Then off to catch the end of Graveworm... some Melodic/Gothic Black Metal from Italy. I tend to not be a big fan of bands that use the "Gothic" style, to me it feels like everything is just keyboards. And well, that can be fine too, but the bands Gothic sound usually all sound pretty much the same. Graveworm didn't feel much different in that regard either. I think I was mostly not in the mood for this style though.
Metal Church
Some more classic Heavy Metal then! But after all those Death bands in the morning this felt so slow so I couldn't really get into it this day. It sounded well enough, and a pretty good frontman too but... felt like something was missing. Probably just me though.
Some more classic Heavy Metal then! But after all those Death bands in the morning this felt so slow so I couldn't really get into it this day. It sounded well enough, and a pretty good frontman too but... felt like something was missing. Probably just me though.
Svart Crown
So I went off to the second stage instead. Being Swedish this name looks ridiculous. Why mix Swedish and English like that? I guess they're excused for being from France... anyway, they play what I'd call Blackened Death Metal in the same vein as bands like Behemoth for example. Fast and technical stuff. Really nice! It's also one of those bands where you could tell they have either been doing a lot of shows together or they've been rehearsing a lot. It was tight and well thought out. Just like Behemoth really. Enjoyed it, and so did the rest of the crowd!
So I went off to the second stage instead. Being Swedish this name looks ridiculous. Why mix Swedish and English like that? I guess they're excused for being from France... anyway, they play what I'd call Blackened Death Metal in the same vein as bands like Behemoth for example. Fast and technical stuff. Really nice! It's also one of those bands where you could tell they have either been doing a lot of shows together or they've been rehearsing a lot. It was tight and well thought out. Just like Behemoth really. Enjoyed it, and so did the rest of the crowd!
Primordial
Another of those bands that I really wanted to see at this festival! Their take on the "Pagan Metal" or whatever you want to call it is rather unique I think. And they make a really nice show out of it, and it was obvious they had thought quite some time about the setlist here. Everything connected really well so they could control the energy of the crowd just like they wanted it. Nice show! But bloody hell was it hot.
Another of those bands that I really wanted to see at this festival! Their take on the "Pagan Metal" or whatever you want to call it is rather unique I think. And they make a really nice show out of it, and it was obvious they had thought quite some time about the setlist here. Everything connected really well so they could control the energy of the crowd just like they wanted it. Nice show! But bloody hell was it hot.
Tsjuder
After that back to the second stage again, and some more Black Metal from Norway. I don't really have much to say here, they're just Black Metal from Norway. Nothing that stands out in any way. If you like that raw style of Black Metal you wouldn't be disappointed. Solid, but nothing special.
After that back to the second stage again, and some more Black Metal from Norway. I don't really have much to say here, they're just Black Metal from Norway. Nothing that stands out in any way. If you like that raw style of Black Metal you wouldn't be disappointed. Solid, but nothing special.
Powerwolf
Romanian fanatics... second time I see these guys, and well, their brand of Power Metal is quite unique I think. I can't think of any other band that sounds like them, for good or bad. However I feel like they live mostly on their image of Transylvanian Vampire Catholics...
Romanian fanatics... second time I see these guys, and well, their brand of Power Metal is quite unique I think. I can't think of any other band that sounds like them, for good or bad. However I feel like they live mostly on their image of Transylvanian Vampire Catholics...
Aura Noir
The only really bad clash in the running order for me was between Aura Noir and Wintersun... However I had time to see the first one and a half song at least. In your face, and fucking awesome. And I don't expect them to have let anything down for the rest of the set either...
The only really bad clash in the running order for me was between Aura Noir and Wintersun... However I had time to see the first one and a half song at least. In your face, and fucking awesome. And I don't expect them to have let anything down for the rest of the set either...
Wintersun
So anyway, off to the main stage once again (and now the sun was finally setting so it was bearable again!). This was the band that once again made me decide to come back to Tolmin. Last time it was to see Wintersun for the first time, and now a second time. So quite high expectations... and not only from me, but a large chunk of the visitors were there as well. So they finally start playing the intro from Time I... it rises, reaches the crescendo... the band is just about to come on stage... and there's a power failure. I shit you not. The whole festival area goes completely black (the sun was completely set by now). No fucking way. They did get the power back on after 15-20 minutes though, and the band comes on after a short version of the intro instead. Yay! They play Sons of Winter and Stars... but the sound is awful. Whenever Kai starts the drumming the guitars go completely out... and it takes a few minutes more before they get it sorted out and everything is fine again... until the very last chord, Jari hits the strings and everything goes black once again. Thoughts of "MetalFails" starts crossing my mind...
So anyway, off to the main stage once again (and now the sun was finally setting so it was bearable again!). This was the band that once again made me decide to come back to Tolmin. Last time it was to see Wintersun for the first time, and now a second time. So quite high expectations... and not only from me, but a large chunk of the visitors were there as well. So they finally start playing the intro from Time I... it rises, reaches the crescendo... the band is just about to come on stage... and there's a power failure. I shit you not. The whole festival area goes completely black (the sun was completely set by now). No fucking way. They did get the power back on after 15-20 minutes though, and the band comes on after a short version of the intro instead. Yay! They play Sons of Winter and Stars... but the sound is awful. Whenever Kai starts the drumming the guitars go completely out... and it takes a few minutes more before they get it sorted out and everything is fine again... until the very last chord, Jari hits the strings and everything goes black once again. Thoughts of "MetalFails" starts crossing my mind...
Ahwell, this time they got everything running after only five minutes or so, and they came back on and continued the set. And the set really surprised me. I was expecting them to play at least one more song from Time I, but they actually didn't. Instead they played Beatiful Death, Death and the Healing, Winter Madness, Beyond the Dark Sun and Starchild. Which was awesome! Don't get me wrong, I love Time I but the first album means a little bit more for me still. So getting to see those songs once again was just awesome for me. Loved every second of it, and the rest of the set went smoothly. Rough start, but I guess Jari is used to technology failing around him by now... the band really carried it afterwards anyway so I'm really pleased!
Unleashed
So, the second stage was affected by the blackout as well which meant that despite quite the delay of Wintersun Unleashed hadn't started yet. Which was awesome for me! Thank you very much! Was quite some time since last time I saw Unleashed so was really looking forwards to this one! And coming from high spirits of Wintersun all ready Unleashed just had to play to keep me happy really.
So, the second stage was affected by the blackout as well which meant that despite quite the delay of Wintersun Unleashed hadn't started yet. Which was awesome for me! Thank you very much! Was quite some time since last time I saw Unleashed so was really looking forwards to this one! And coming from high spirits of Wintersun all ready Unleashed just had to play to keep me happy really.
They basically only played songs from the last two albums though, with few exceptions. Midvinterblot one of them, and also one song from Across the Open Sea. Because they finished a bit early they also managed to squeeze in Before the Creation of Time in the end as well. I like the new album, but.. it's not quite as strong as Hammer Battalion and Midvinterblot especially in my opinion. So I guess it's fine that they're supporting the new stuff... and with a short one hour set there's not much room left after that... but I did miss the old songs here. Still happy with the show! Johnny and the boys delivered as always!
King Diamond
Now, getting the chance to see King Diamond live wasn't something I was going to miss. They had scheduled a break of one hour after Wintersun to prepare for King Diamond... I don't know how long the break was after the delays and such, but they had started when I got there from Unleashed (who were about 30 min late) so I missed the intro. What I did get to see when I got there however was an amazing stage. They had built up some stairs around the drums and huge screens all around the stage. And with some really clever light work they made the same stage look like a voodoo hut, dark streets of London, a graveyard... It was really atmospheric, and I really applaud the light engineers here. They had done an amazing job!
Now, getting the chance to see King Diamond live wasn't something I was going to miss. They had scheduled a break of one hour after Wintersun to prepare for King Diamond... I don't know how long the break was after the delays and such, but they had started when I got there from Unleashed (who were about 30 min late) so I missed the intro. What I did get to see when I got there however was an amazing stage. They had built up some stairs around the drums and huge screens all around the stage. And with some really clever light work they made the same stage look like a voodoo hut, dark streets of London, a graveyard... It was really atmospheric, and I really applaud the light engineers here. They had done an amazing job!
Another thing that also added to the atmosphere was one I looked up in the sky... right behind the stage was the almost full moon, which was slightly obscured by streaky clouds and the lit up the sloping mountainsides to both sides of the stage... In other words the perfect setting for any classic Horror story. King Diamond is so good at atmosphere that he even got the night sky working in his favour... There's a crappy picture of that below, but you'll have to use some imagination I believe...
Anyway, atmosphere apart the band did an awesome job. You can't tell that King Diamond is almost 60 years old. You can't hear it in his voice and you can't see it. His moves are slow yes, but it's deliberate because again, it's about atmosphere. And then there's Mike Wead and Andy LaRoque... I didn't think I'd get the chance to see those two guys on the same stage. That was pure awesomeness.
Another really nice touch was the fact that not only did they play King Diamond songs but we got some Merciful Fate in there as well! Just icing on the cake.
Candlemass
And then finally, the last band of the festival. Doom Metal isn't my thing, but since Candlemass acquired Mats Levén on vocals they have become a bit of a must see for me. The man is amazing. The rest of the band does a good job as well of course, but for me it's Mats that really stands out and makes the show interesting. Nice ending to the festival anyhow!
And then finally, the last band of the festival. Doom Metal isn't my thing, but since Candlemass acquired Mats Levén on vocals they have become a bit of a must see for me. The man is amazing. The rest of the band does a good job as well of course, but for me it's Mats that really stands out and makes the show interesting. Nice ending to the festival anyhow!
All in all a very long festival indeed. But I enjoyed every minute of it this year as well. The bands started a lot earlier this year than last time I was here since there was a lot more of them this time around... but it didn't really take away from the overall relaxed feel of the festival. Still loving it. The best decision I made all festival however was to camp in the forest. I learnt from last time that the open fields get bloody hot in the mornings... in the forest however it was actually really pleasant in the mornings. So my advice to anyone wanting to visit the festival, be there early and grab a spot in the forest!
I must also say that the crew is doing a really good job on this festival. Even when there was a massive storm and the festival grounds were basically flooded they had draining cars on the area controlling the worst of it. And minutes after the rain stopped there were barely any water left on the festival area. And even the power failure... that really sucked, but they did manage to fix it pretty quickly and also managed to get back pretty much on schedule. Good job!
I'm also really impressed with the food this time around. Usually on festivals you get crappy fast food and that's it. Here there was actually a quite large selection of different stuff. I had several different Slovenian dishes that were all really good! The only downside was that the food places where located in the middle of the camping area, so a five minute walk from the festival area which is a bit of a chore in the heat... On the festival area itself there was only fast food. However down by the beach bar there was the vegan alternative. Pretty awesome! I had several tofu burgers that were really tasty and perfect for the hot weather. I applaud the variety at least!
Anyhow, time to wrap up this very long post. MetalDays... I will most likely be back. Perhaps see you next year?
And here's those crappy pictures I mentioned earlier:
