1 of 3 2 of 3 3 of 3
Avatar is one of those names that I've seen around for the past few years in the metal scene. Looking at their image I can understand why many people, myself included, would be confused about what to expect. They are all dressed up in a kind of circus attire, more like a "freak show" specifically, with singer Johannes Eckerström in his "clown face" acting as the ringleader of the show.
Many Swedish songs ( a very upbeat polka vibe) were played while the packed crowd waited for Avatar. The sun was down, the house lights went out, and the bands named lit up the stage. Avatar opened with "Hail The Apocalypse." Unfamiliar fans would be surprised to hear such an intense voice come from Eckerström. In between singing he danced in front of the crowd with a huge smile, or often choosing to show of his tongue ala Gene Simmons. Those smiles could quickly turn into some intense faces. The band was very big on theatrics even including a freak show. I've seen a lot of weird and interesting things at shows, but a man inserting a screwdriver, (with on a condom on it for safety!) pulling it through his mouth, and flinging it into the crowd is not one of them. A half-man(literally, no legs), a sword swallower and a fire breather were included too.
If that wasn't enough, the band ended with singer Eckerström laying on a bed of nails...with another person laying on nails on him, followed by a third person standing on top. This was of course fittingly during the band's final song, "Smell's Like a Freak Show."
Avatar is one of the few Swedish bands who were able to start from the classic melodic death metal sound of their country and evolve into something of their own. Expect to be seeing their name on more tours, and prepare yourself!