Ministry brought ‘AmeriKKKant’ to NYC on 12/07/2018 w/ Carpenter Brut & Alien Weaponry

Ministry made a triumphant return to North America as these industrial metal giants booked a month-long trek to promote their latest effort AmeriKKKant. Carpenter Brut joined in as direct support to introduce their new album Leather Teeth across the continent. Igorrr was initially scheduled to open. However, New Zealand’s Alien Weaponry replaced them on the bill, marking it their first-ever North American tour. These young metallers treated each city with a new record as well, Tu. We were there at the second NYC show on December 7th at Irving Plaza.

Alien Weaponry

Alien Weaponry opened up the night as many were either curious or excited to see them. Regardless, it was a first time seeing the group perform live and we didn’t know what to expect. As young as they are, it would make one wonder if they would appear a bit shy? Nervous? Angry? The answer was: neither. For those who are wondering who the next major band could be after the greats such as Slayer officially retire, well, look no further. Alien Weaponry not only presents unique music with blends of groove and thrash, but they also deliver an impressive performance. One could say: they have a natural talent. The addition of the Māori culture and language was also a plus, which we’ve seen in their latest effort Tu that was released earlier this year via Napalm Records. We interviewed drummer Henry de Long after their performance and complimented on their set that night, check out the discussion here. Songs included: “PC Bro,” “Holding My Breath,” “Kai Tangata,” “Raupatu” and “Rū ana te whenua,” and more.

Carpenter Brut

For those who like horror, new wave, dark wave, and video art; Carpenter Brut had it all that night packed up in flickering lights and 80s nostalgic synthwave beats. As a direct supporting act for Ministry, they paired well together. The entire venue turned into an industrial night club as the beats continued to blast through the speakers as classic slasher films were running on the screen in the back. Songs included “Leather Teeth,” “Division Ruine,” “Roller Mobster,” “Beware the Beast,” “Wake Up the President,” “Chew BubbleGum and Kick Ass,” “Turbo Killer,” “Cheerleader Effect,” “Monday Hurt,” “SexKiller on the Loose,” “Hairspray Hurricane,” and more.

Ministry

After a full set change to another display of nostalgia and video art, it was time for the industrial metal masters Ministry. Once Al Jourgensen walked onto the platform, all eyes were locked on him as he gave a vengeful delivery. The set was split in half as they performed AmeriKKKant in its entirety followed by Ministry classics including “Stigmata,” “Thieves” and “Just One Fix.” Whether people just discovered Ministry this year or knew them since 1983’s With Sympathy, there was something there for all fans that night. Overall, it was partially reminiscent of the good old days while mixed with being reminded of our present-day horrors.

Nights such as these are always fun as it united the industrial and metal crowd as it didn’t matter if you headbanged or danced throughout each performance.