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Thanks to Dave Mustaine, Iced Earth had the
opportunity to finally visit Pittsburgh and attempt to conquer the cavernous pit
of sound known as M. A dying dance club, M offers sound techs the task of
making a great band sound like they are playing in a sewer. Iced Earth of
course was bit by the sound gremlins, but the band bit right back with a tight
set that saw them cover their impressive catalog in 7 songs. "Burning Times"
lead off the set that was greeted by a strange occurrence beforehand. The crowd
was chanting “Iced Earth, Iced Earth” just like the people do in Europe at
concerts. This is the first time I can remember an opening band getting such
great treatment in this town. “Vengeance Is Mine” (from Dark Saga) ripped
through the crowd that was eager to respond to vocalist Matthew Barlow’s hand
gestures for the chorus.
As I have mentioned in the CD review for “Horror Show”, Iced Earth has ascended
to top of the United States heavy metal throne and cast the wretched carcass of
the once mighty Metallica to the Nu Metal crowd. No better example of this is
apparent than the haunting “Ghost Of Freedom” which promises to become their own
“Fade To Black”. “Vengeance Is Mine” and “Ghost Of Freedom” (dedicated to
those in service to America) are certainly relevant in these troubled times.
Also from “Horror Show”, the crowd was treated to the sinister tracks “Damien”
and “Dracula”. Reaching back to their 2nd CD, “Night Of The
Stormrider”, Iced Earth took us on a journey along the river Styx with “Travel
In Stygian” which was met with boisterous approval. Finishing up with “Coming
Curse”, Iced Earth certainly won over some Megadeth fans who were not familiar
with the bands material.
A 35 minute set surely did not seem long enough (especially if you own the
“Alive In Athens” 2 or 3 CD set) but Mr. Schaffer and company will be most
welcome in area once they headline their own tour across the United States.
Setlist:
Burning Times
Damien
Vengeance Is Mine
Dracula
Travel in Stygian
Ghost of Freedom
Coming Curse
Visit Iced Earth at their homepage:
http://www.icedearth.com.
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