Saturday, 21 October 2023

Imperial Age - The Black Prince Northampton

 

It always gladdens the heart to see Northampton on the list of any Rock/Metal band tour. Sadly, it is all to rare, and has been for a long time. Not too sure quite what to expect at the ' Black Prince' in the town centre tonight? The band in question tonight are 'Imperial Age'. Originally from Russia,' leaving when the conflict with Ukraine began for Turkey. They now find themselves residing in the rural countryside of Northamptonshire.  The venue wasn't too busy which was surprising? Perhaps the awful wet and windy weather had put a few off? From the photos I've seen they've played some large venues, with big crowds in Europe. Maybe others have decided to go to the London or Birmingham gigs?  The numbers gradually started to build though as the band take to the stage. I'm not over familiar with their work in all truth. Anything that is labelled as 'Symphonic Metal' and local is well worthy of support.  

The band were originally founded by Alexander 'Aor' and Jane Odintsova in Russia.  Not surprisingly it is very much about the three singers; Alexander, Jane and Anna Kiara.They describe their music as being inspired by 'Ancient Atlantian lore'. Dutch guitarist Jeremy de Boer has also joined up for the Lost Worlds Unleashed Tour 2023. The band is completed by Dimitri 'Belf' Safronov on Bass and Manuele Di Ascenzo on drums. 

There is lots of arm waving and 'Hey-Hey-Heys' being chanted. It's infectious and almost everyone in the crowd is part of it. Alexander talks to the crowd describing the meaning of some of the songs. 'Distant shores' has poignant and prophetic meaning as to how things have evolved. It's an eclectic mix of power and subtlety. I feel like I know all the songs already. Typical of the genre there are backing tracks. But this takes nothing away from the music. 

It felt as though the band ere really enjoying themselves. Alexander mentioned it being a warm and  cosy atmosphere. In turn the Northampton crowd accepted them as one of their own. A night full of passion and energy packed into a two and a half hour performance. 

It was a great pleasure to meet the band afterwards. Seems as they are enjoying life in the County. Alexander keeping fit with his runs through the countryside. Not much of a football fan though so don't expect to see him at 'The Cobblers' anytime soon though. 

What a great night,lots of happy faces around. The sort of gig that you leave with a warm glow. Imperial Age are a band you feel are destined for bigger and better things. There will be many there tonight who will be following their progress closely. I certainly look forward to seeing them again.

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