Live Show: Gamma Ray, Silent Winter, Desert Near The End
Place: Floyd Club, Athens, Greece
Date: December 10th, 2024
Live Correspondent: Konstantinos Karras
The night of this concert featuring GAMMA RAY, SILENT WINTER, and DESERT NEAR THE END will remain unforgettable in the memories of those who attended Floyd Club in Athens, as these three bands delivered one of the most dynamic performances of the year!
The night began with DESERT NEAR THE END, who took on the challenging task of warming up the crowd that was gradually filling the venue. The Athens-based Heavy/Thrashers, armed with their new album Tides of Time, made the most of their brief 30-minute set. With sharp guitars, solid drums, and Alexandros delivering intense vocals, the band showcased why they deserve the audience’s respect. A standout moment was the duet on “Damnation” with Efi Evangelinou from EUPHROSYNE, adding a unique atmosphere to their performance. Despite the limited time, DESERT NEAR THE END confirmed their reputation as one of the most consistent and dynamic Greek bands.
Next up were SILENT WINTER, a name already well-established in the Greek Power Metal scene. With Utopia as a key reference point for the band, the audience warmly welcomed them from the very first moment. The opening track, “We Burn the Future,” set the tone for a performance full of passion and energy. Michalis Livas’ vocal delivery was captivating, while the band’s powerful sound, despite minor technical issues, swept the crowd away. Tracks like “Shout” and “Hands Held High” heightened the intensity, with Livas guiding the audience through moments of enthusiastic participation. This night added yet another important chapter to the concert history of SILENT WINTER.
The return of GAMMA RAY to Athens after more than a decade was the highlight of the night. Floyd was packed to the brim, and the intro of “Welcome” signaled a triumphant start. From the first note of “Land of the Free,” the band led the audience on a journey filled with melodies and memories. Kai Hansen, with his tireless smile and signature energy, spearheaded a performance that felt like a grand celebration.
“Last Before the Storm” and “Avalon” stood out, while “Man on a Mission” and “Dethrone Tyranny” sparked a wave of sing-alongs. Although the sound experienced issues at certain points, it did not dampen the audience’s enthusiasm. The emotional peak came with “Rebellion in Dreamland,” an anthem-like composition for the genre that GAMMA RAY both founded and continues to represent!
The encore was a triumphant return to the band’s glorious past. “Heading for Tomorrow” was delivered in all its grandeur, while “Send Me a Sign” closed the night with the crowd in a state of euphoria. Kai Hansen proved why he is regarded as one of the most iconic figures of European Power Metal, while the band as a whole delivered a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
The concert featuring GAMMA RAY, SILENT WINTER, and DESERT NEAR THE END was a testament to the unifying and inspiring power of heavy metal. With each band offering its unique flair, the night was an ode to the dedication and passion that define the metal community.
Live Correspondent: Konstantinos Karras
Translation/Rendering in English language: Vasso Kalogera
Design, Editing & Text Correction: Alexandros Soultatos
Photos: Susanne Müller (freischrift_fotografie)
Videos: Alexandros Soultatos
External Links: GAMMA RAY – Official Page
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