Almost exactly two years ago, Bloodywood played the Club at Im Wizemann in Stuttgart. At a capacity of 550 people, and that barely filled, they played full power for the entire set. Limited back then by the number of released songs, they played their entire debut album, “Rakshak”, even repeating the opener as an encore.
Now Bloodywood return geared up for more. Only a few days before the release of their still-to-be-named second album (by now released as “Nu Dehli”), they have extended their repertoire with some heavy bangers. And just as Bloodywood, their fans are prepared for a party. At a capacity of 1500 people, the LKA Longhorn in Stuttgart is sold out. The crowd is amped up to celebrate the Nu Dehli state of mind.
Company from back home – Demonic Resurrection
Opener of the evening are Mumbai (India) based Black / Death Metal band Demonic Resurrection. They share great excitement about being on tour with Bloodywood, again as it sounds from the words of frontman Sahil “The Demonstealer” Makhija. His question “Are we too heavy for the Bloodywood fans” clearly splits the crowd in half, and at the same time so wonderfully sums up their performance. A fitting support act for Bloodywood and fantastical to hear another band from their home country. Something not exactly alike but still insanely powerful as its sound waltzes through the venue like a bulldozer.
Possessed by a rebellious spirit – Calva Louise
With a trippy horror theme, Calva Louise seamlessly follow up the demonic opener. But that’s already where the similarities end. Musically, they turn in an entirely different direction. With a slightly progressive mixture of punk, core, and electro elements the unlikely trio from France, Venezuela, and New Zealand shake up the crowd. On top of this versatile soundscape, the wild switches between jazzy clean vocals and high-pitched screams delivered by Jess Allanic play them right into my heart. I can’t help but think of artists such as Poppy or Nostalghia, hearing this mixture of squeaky cute, and bone-chilling sounds. Not to mention their stage setup not only builds upon the usual bass, guitar, and drums combo but also encompasses a sliding keyboard for fast changes in musical focus as well as a huge synthesizer setup. An excitingly unique appearance in every conceivable way.
Expect a riot – Bloodywood
Finally, the storm from the Wild Wild East blows through the LKA Longhorn. Only a short intro separates us from an intense, emotional, and mostly full-speed show by Bloodywood. With the musical foundation mainly designed by Karan Katiyar on guitar and flute, the harsh and clean vocals by Jayant Bhadula as well as neck-breaking rapping by Raoul Kerr, they once again have their fans enchanted within seconds. But also the presence of traditional elements such as the Dhol performed by Sarthak Pahwa carry the iconic sound of Bloodywood.
But it’s not only their characteristic mixture of Indian folk and modern Metal, that makes a Bloodywood show such a unique experience. First and foremost it is the mindset conveyed by the band. A strong mindset of unison, connection, strength, and support. That energy is electrifying and contagious.
Unfortunately, this idea is lost on some people in the crowd nonetheless as they feel the need to let go past the point of consideration for the people surrounding them in almost violent partying. Which leads to some holdups in between songs to give security personel the time to sort things out.
Ultimately, that doesn’t stop the big Bloodywood family from embracing the wonderful energy of this spiritual experience. With a mix of new songs such as “Tadka” and “Bekhauf” (even though unfortunately without a guest appearance of feature Babymetal) and classics such as the highly emotional “Jee Veerey” or enchanting “Aaj” all desires are fulfilled. With an empowering rendition of “Gaddaar”, Bloodywood conclude this evening, leaving behind a crowd revitalized yet already yearning for their return.
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Event schedule @ Music Circus Concertbüro
Article by Cat Maverick