Live Review: Amorphis, Voyager

It's no secret we live in a sleepy corner of the world so when a band travels from the polar opposite end to visit there is a particular magic in the air. Hailing from Finland, the mighty Amorphis all but pioneered the scene in a country that now considers heavy metal its pride and joy. Beginning as an incredibly heavy death metal act the band has consistently evolved, resulting in a broad and enviable back catalogue much of which was on show on Wednesday night. It was a night of stars as Perth's own international export, Voyager demonstrated once again that they've deservedly outgrown the city and belong on the summer festival circuit with a rich and varied back catalogue of their own. I Am The Revolution blended with a healthy dose of The Meaning Of I bring a slick modern feel to the show on the same stage on which they cut their teeth with power metal all those years ago. There was no Space Jump Medley this time around however, just an assortment of rich musicianship from some of Australia's best. Gotta love the direction these guys are travelling in.

The stars aligned as Finnish pioneers Amorphis took the stage to deliver a flawless performance in what was easily metal gig of the year. There is true beauty in seeing an act that features an historic back catalogue as each of those early era tracks can finally be heard in their true and updated form with the benefit of years of experience honing each one to perfection. Into Hiding, Drowned Maid, Black Winter Day and Castaway, all from the '94 album, Tales From The Thousand Lakes, featured prominently, receiving the modern treatment in what was in all probability the most perfect mix Amplifer has ever cooked up. Vocalist Tomi Joutson's cavernous heavy growls and soaring accented cleans showed why he is rare air and can make a case as one of the most important vocalists of this metal era. The complexities of tone resonate with smoothness and are delivered with raw unadulterated power - a contrast possibly unmatched in either hemisphere.

The soaring melodies of Skyforger tracks ruled supreme as Sampo and Silver Bride were played back-to-back to reflect the album order – a masterpiece alternating between crushing heaviness and melodic passages. Sky Is Mine and My Kantele iced a perfect show from one of the best bands in existence.