Review: Nev Pearce
Photography: JD Garrahy

Back in 2006, a little animated TV show crashed onto our screens and changed the game forever. Metalocalypse wasn’t just about another cartoon band. It blended black comedy, over-the-top violence, and brutally detailed death scenes with music that was not only well-written but genuinely brutal and heavy.

The animation also went above and beyond, meticulously drawn so the characters looked like they were actually playing their instruments—a first for its kind, and way ahead of its time. It was a show for metal fans by metal fans who understood the genre to the finest detail.

Not long after, co-creator and songwriter Brendan Small assembled a live band, featuring none other than the “Atomic Clock” himself—Gene Hoglan, arguably the greatest metal drummer in the world. Together, they took Dethklok on the road, transforming the animated mayhem into an unforgettable live experience that gave fans something completely new. For years, rumors swirled about an Australian tour, but it never happened—until now.

It seemed hell had finally frozen over—Dethklok was actually touring Australia. After nearly two decades of waiting, the day had come. I found myself at one of my favorite venues, the Fortitude Music Hall in Brisbane, throwing all my hard-earned cash at the merch table without a second thought. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve been this excited to see a live band in years.

Opening support for the tour is Freedom of Fear—one of Australia’s best and hardest-working metal bands, and a group that’s quickly rising through the ranks. Every time I see them play, they somehow manage to outdo themselves. It’s honestly terrifying how good they are.

Jade Monserrat is a force of nature—her vocal range and presence are nothing short of jaw-dropping. She commands the stage with an intensity that’s impossible to look away from, unleashing guttural growls, piercing screams, and physical contortions like someone possessed. Meanwhile, guitarists Matt Walters, Corey Davis, and drummer Liam Weedall deliver a flawless display of musicianship, the kind that makes you want to either hit the practice room immediately or pack it in altogether.

Seeing Freedom of Fear tear it up in front of such a massive crowd was genuinely something special. They absolutely belong on that stage, and you can absolutely guarantee it won’t be long before they’re the ones headlining.

Now the time had finally arrived for Dethklok to hit the stage. We’d been waiting years for this moment, and as we were greeted by a video of the show’s villains posing the question, “Is Dethklok back?” The shadowed figures of the band members emerged and ripped straight into the Dethklok theme song—and from where I was standing, the response was absolutely deafening.

This was followed by Briefcase Full of Guts, Birthday Dethday, and Mutilation on a Saturday Night—each accompanied by its own video projected on the massive screen which feels like you’re watching a new episode of the show.

Though barely visible on the darkly lit stage, frontman and mastermind Brendan Small absolutely shreds on guitar—and on top of that, he sounds incredible vocally. He brings the band’s animated frontman, Nathan Explosion, to life with deep gutturals and that unmistakable signature growl.

I’d always wondered how well he could pull it off live, especially considering how technically demanding the guitar parts are when combined with vocals—but he completely nails it, proving exactly why he’s one of the best in the genre.

The band played in perfect sync, with legendary drummer Gene Hoglan locking everything in tight—and witnessing it live was incredible. At times, you completely forget you’re watching a cartoon; you’re drawn so deeply into the world that it feels like you’re part of it.
I’ve seen plenty of bands with over-the-top productions before, but this is hands down one of the best I’ve ever experienced. It’s clear they spared no expense in bringing it to life.

As the set rolls on with Awaken, The Gears, Castratikron, Hatredcopter, Dethsupport, and the massive Duncan Hills Coffee Jingle, the energy in the room only continues to build. Between songs, we’re treated to hilarious public service announcements from the band’s iconic mascot, Facebones, which draw huge laughs from the crowd and add that perfect touch of classic Dethklok humor to the show.

Aortic Desecration, I Ejaculate Fire, The Duel, and fan favorites Mermaider and Thunderhorse dominate the second half of the set, keeping the momentum at full throttle. Then, the stage lights cut out, and the voice of Nathan Explosion fills the venue.

He takes a moment to address the fans about his time down under, sharing his love for Mad Max, giving a shoutout to Freedom of Fear, and trading banter with his bandmates. Just as the crowd settles in, the familiar voice of their manager, Charles, chimes in—declaring the show is over… but giving them the green light to come back and play a couple more songs.

With a three-song encore of Fansong, S.O.S., and Go Into the Water, Dethklok bring their Brisbane show to a thunderous close—playing to a packed Fortitude Music Hall full of exhausted, screaming Klokateers. Given the overwhelming reception (and merch sales), you can’t help but wonder why it took so long for them to tour here. Hopefully, this is a sign that we won’t have to wait another 20 years to see them on our shores again. That was easily one of the best live shows I’ve ever witnessed—and the band knows damn well that we’ll do anything for Dethklok!

DETHKLOK: Awaken Australia

April 8th – Adelaide, Hindley Street Music Hall – Low tix!

April 9th – Melbourne, The Forum – Second show!

VIP AND GENERAL TICKETS ON SALE FROM:

MELBOURNE – www.ticketek.com.au

ADELAIDE – www.moshtix.com.au