Yesterday in Britain was rather wet and windy; the average day citizen would call this a normal average day regarding British weather, I however felt differently. To me this weather said a Metal storm was on its way to conquer The Forum, situated in the UK's capital city. From what I witnessed last night I think I was proved correct, proving that Metal is still alive and kicking. This Metal storm was headlined by Swedish Power Metal warriors SABATON with support delivered by the equally almighty DELAIN and BATTLE BEAST.

This was my first visit to London's Forum and I must say it was a lot bigger and grander then I had expected. Giving that SABATON have just finished a UK tour consisting of really tiny venues I was surprised yet amazed by the size of The Forum. It reminded me of an old theatre and giving that SABATON were going to be using the drum cannon fans had been eagerly awaiting to see, the stage was a perfect size.

As the venue started filling up with fellow gig goers, the atmosphere was very exciting as they waited for the first band BATTLE BEAST to grace us with their presence. In 2014, BATTLE BEAST became a favourite band of mine; with their energy filled melodies, excellent guitar work and powerful vocals I was exceedingly thrilled to be seeing them live for the first time.
 

Suddenly the house lights went out, smoke filled the stage and the first sets of drums were heard. The crowds cheered and clapped before the rest of the band were seen, so to say they got a warm welcome would be a huge understatement. Opening up with "Far Far Away" taken from their new album "Unholy Saviour" proved very popular with the British crowd. I really enjoyed their setlist, from the anthemic "Black Ninja" to the new single "Madness" this setlist had something for everyone. These powerful anthems were reinforced by the flawless vocals from Noora Louhimo and immaculate guitar work. Ending with "Out Of Control" marked the end of a successful performance and I think I speak for all those that were there that they are welcome back to the UK anytime.
 

Next to take to the stage were Dutch Symphonic Metal outfit DELAIN; with direct support slots with WITHIN TEMPTATION, SONATA ARCTICA and an upcoming tour with NIGHTWISH it could be safe to say we will be seeing a takeover in 2015. The last time I had seen DELAIN was at Wembley Arena where they had the crowds bowing before them; this time round was no exception. Their infectious energy on stage spread like a virus around the venue as there were even fans at the back showing their enthusiastic appreciation. Their setlist contained an eclectic selection from across their discography; from the grand sounding "Sleepwalker's Dream" to the haunting "Army Of Dolls" I'd be lying to say if there wasn't something to suit everyone's taste. The highlights for me were "Get The Devil Out Of Me" and "Army Of Dolls" as I found myself singing and dancing along. After last night a DELAIN takeover could be on the horizon.
 

The huge moment of the event was causing anticipation and exhilaration; the lead up to SABATON's appearance on stage. Chants and singing started reinforcing the excitement for their idols to appear onto the stage. The cheers got louder and the screams echoed throughout as the grand unveiling of the drum cannon came to light.
After much cheering and chanting the lights finally went down, EUROPE's anthem "The Final Countdown" was heard on the system and band members gradually making their way onto the stage. Launching the set with grand opening "Ghost Division" received great appreciation from their loyal fans. My personal highlights of the set for me were the songs "Gott Mitt Uns", "Uprising" and their almighty single "Primo Victoria", especially during one of these songs the natural Metal head bond came to light when I was asked to join in with some new faces when I was suddenly left alone in the crowd.
 

SABATON's set was packed with fist pumping adrenaline, a grand stage presence and a dedicated crowd who just excited to be in their presence. One of the things that stood out to me was how they like to keep their shows exclusive by giving the fans a chance to pick the next song on the setlist, sometimes keeping it exclusive for that crowd. Their energy and passion was so contagious that fans on the balcony were devotedly showing appreciation for their idols. After seeing them for a third time, I can concur that SABATON are one of my favourite live bands.
 

For me this was a truly grand night of metal that included many emphasises; some members of the metal community taking you under their wing reminding you that loneliness can be swept away in few seconds, some excitable fans that were there to see all the bands rather than just the one and the music that had everyone going from start to finish.

Overall conclusion? If SABATON, DELAIN and BATTLE BEAST are ever on the same tour again you'd be a fool to miss it.

*Photography: Chris Green