Dan Boshart Protest The Hero’s current tour celebrating the tenth anniversary of Volition is a long-awaited tribute to an album that has resonated with fans for a decade. Regular visitors to London Music Hall, this was their ninth time performing at the popular venue and the Canadian progressive metal band played Volition in full, reliving the intricate riffs, powerful lyrics, and complex compositions that make it such a fan favorite.
The large crowd was primed and in full party mode to celebrate and sing along to their favorite tracks from the popular album, particularly during the song “Mist,” when members of the opening bands joined the stage to sing along, adding an unexpected sense of camaraderie to the evening. It was clear the band was in high spirits, laughing and engaging with fans, making the experience feel personal and celebratory. Rody Walker’s vocals were on point, and the band delivered a tight performance. For the encore, Protest The Hero delivered explosive renditions of “Sequoia Throne” and “Bloodmeat,” giving fans the classic favorites they’d hoped for.
London’s own Polluted kicked off the night, delivering a groovy, heavy set that stirred up the hometown crowd with energy. Following them was Philadelphia-based Kaonashi, who brought the heaviest breakdowns of the evening. Their intense metalcore sound had the pit two-stepping and moshing with unbridled enthusiasm, pushing the night’s energy to a fever pitch. Atlanta’s rock duo ’68 added a unique twist to the lineup with their style that melds stoner rock and performance art, captivating the audience with both their musicality and stage presence.
The night was a powerful blend of nostalgia, local talent, and diverse sounds that showcased the best of progressive and experimental heavy music. Protest The Hero’s anniversary tour promises fans a celebration to remember, and this show certainly delivered.
Setlist
Clarity
Drumhead Trial
Tilting Against Windmills
Without Prejudice
Yellow Teeth
Plato’s Tripartite
A Life Embossed
Mist
(With the opening bands on stage)
Underbite
Animal Bones
Skies
Encore:
Sequoia Throne
Bloodmeat
Photos By: Dan Boshart
Protest the Hero
68
Polluted
Kaonashi
