The final day of August ended with a bang with the Pagan Rebellion tour hitting Gramercy Theater. Arkona from Russia invades NYC and leaves their mark and does it right. Many fans of this group have gotten on board when they came here with Epica back in early 2017 or when they came here with Korpiklaani back in 2018. With them headlining, we get a longer setlist and great production and lights that go along with it.

Staring at the audience dead in the face is the animal skull hanging on the microphone stand. When they took the stage there were lights that moved along with the rhythm and supported the emotional elements and vibe that was demonstrated on stage.

Vocalist Masha Scream is not only able to have a voice that will horrify you to the core with her intense growls, but there is also a melodic sense that can bring goosebumps and chills. With her impressive vocal capabilities, the stage presence is truly remarkable. You can tell that this band feels what they play and it is not just a performance, but an epiphany for them and the audience. Their sound of intense riffs combined with the woodwind instruments delivers a brutal and catchy sound. With their sound, they bring culture, refinement, emotion, joy and fun.

The audience reaction is also something that is to be remembered. One minute the audience was doing the traditional moshpitting, but when the folk elements kick in, they are holding hands and dancing together as if it was a traditional folk performance. Arkona really perfects this contrast with their well-balanced sound.

Arkona’s new album Khram is out now via Napalm Records