Swedish heavy metal band, Avatar, opened for Babymetal at the Uptown Theater in Kansas City, Missouri on September 23, 2019.
It was a warm Monday evening in KC when Avatar took the stage. The lead singer, Johannes Eckerström, entered the stage after the rest of the band took their positions. He looked like a cross between a circus ring leader and a demented/psychotic clown with his face paint and wardrobe choice. The way Eckerström would over-exaggerate his smiles and widen his eyes added to his on stage persona. One of the guitarists, Jonas “Kungen” Jarlsby, was also very animated. He looked like a modern day viking of sorts with his long dreads and promintent beard and mustache.
The band was incredibly energetic on stage. They were always moving all around and never stayed in one spot for very long. Their music is described as melodic death metal and it sure was melodic. The guitars and vocals were smooth and pleasant to listen to as well as energetic and intense, one of the reasons why Swedish metal groups will always be a favorite of mine to listen to.
Avatar is definitely an experience to see live. The way the band members worked together on stage, combined with their killer music prowess made for on hell of an entertaining show. The audience was on their feet jumping up and down, hands in the air, headbanging along with the band throughout their entire set. It was awesome. If Avatar comes to a city near you, I’d highly suggest treating yourself to one amazing metal show.
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All photos © Andrew Mather
KC Concerts 