Review from Tribulation’s show in Washington DC at The Rock and Roll Hotel on October 11th, 2018:
Spooky Swedish metallers Tribulation were nightbound towards Washington, DC this past Thursday night and many of the area’s children of the night were in attendance as they eagerly clung to their dreams of the dead. This was an amazing performance and the second time I’ve been lucky enough to catch this band live in the United States.
Tribulation’s 2018 release, Down Below, is one of the year’s best records and it was no surprise then I would also have to rate the band’s DC show as one of the top performances I’ve witnessed this year as well.
A dark, dreary and gloomy evening in the city was the perfect backdrop for the band’s epic goth-inspired performance. While the venue, the Rock and Roll Hotel was not filled (likely because of the weather), the passionate fans were clearly engaged and mesmerized by Tribulation’s endeavor. Personally, I camped out immediately in front of lead guitarist Jonathan Hulten who is an absolute pleasure to watch perform. Not only is Jonathan an incredible musician, Hulten’s stage presence and frequent interaction with the audience forms a deep affective link.
Vocalist/bassist Johannes Andersson and Adam Zaars also gave standout performances, with all three front line instrumentalists often standing and posing on risers right at the edge of the stage. The front row of passionate, mostly young people were clearly enchanted from start to finish. Newcomer on drums, Oscar Leander, nailed it.
Tribulation has only as three full length records out, so they were able to play all of the favorites in their set including, “Lady Death,” “The Mother of God,” and “Melancholia.” Outstanding sound production within the small venue greatly enhanced the show as we were able to hear the myriad of nuanced sounds that this band is known for.
If you haven’t ventured out to see Tribulation yet, do so. Even if your metal tastes are less gothic and more towards the heavy, there is no doubt that you will find a great deal to love with this band.
Tribulation:
