Within Temptation - Antwerp

A true Angel


The Nun - With Thanks Stephen - Must be a story there?

With Stephen after his final gig


A tribute to the Tour Manager











Our Hotel was literally over the road from the Koningin Elisabethzaal so we didn't set off until 19:30. Also pre-booked seats so it didn't mean an early start and a long queue which was a pleasant change.
It was an extremely laid back atmosphere inside the venue more reminiscent of a night a the theatre. I suppose it was appropriate as this was an acoustic tour or so I thought??.
Not only was it to be the last night of the Tour it was also Drummer Stephen Van Haestregts last concert after 10 years with WT. He is leaving to concentrate on producing, recording and mixing other bands. Also he is involved with another musical project “My Favorite Scar”.
The first half started with 'Towards the End' followed by fantastic acoustic versions of 'Caged', 'Stand My Ground', 'Somewhere' and 'The Cross' one of my personal favourites. There were two backing musicians playing violin and Cello which fitted perfectly with the surroundings.
Suddenly acoustic guitars were swapped for electric there was a rush to the stage front and we were treated to a full out Rocking version of 'Heart Of Everything'. The crowd went wild - was this a sign of things to come for after the interval.
The second half picked up where the first ended with a pulsating version of Jilian (I'd give my heart). Followed by 'Angels' before continuing in an acoustic manner with 'Forgiven', 'Memories', 'Utopia' and 'What Have You Done'. The tempo was soon picked up again with such classics as 'The Howling','Mother Earth' and 'Ice Queen'.
We also had a giant inflatable 'Nun' dedicated 'With Thanks Stephen', although i'm not entirely sure of the significance.
This was a fantastic gig pure musical genius. Don't get me wrong I love a few pyros and extravagant light show but they were not missed tonight. Altogether we had twenty one songs and this was a tribute to the strength of Sharon's vocal power.
Stephen got a wonderful and emotional send off and was greeted on stage by his wife and young son.
It was great to have a chat with him after the show and wish him all the best for the future.
Altogether a fantastic trip and concert that has jumped into my top 3 Gig list.

Full track list as follows :

First Half :

• Towards The End
• Pale
• Caged
• Stand My Ground
• Somewhere
• The Cross
• Frozen
• All I need
• Heart Of Everything

Second Half

• Jilian (I'd give my Heart)
• Angels
• Forgiven
• Memories
• Utopia
• What Have You Done
• Hand Of Sorrow
• The Howling
• Truth Beneath The Rose
• Mother Earth
• Our Solemn Hour
• Ice Queen