There’s a reason why openers shouldn’t be skipped at shows. Whether you were there for the headliner or not, there can always be a great surprise if you arrived early enough. This past Valentine’s day was a clear example when both Vitriol and Hideous Divinity opened for Abysmal Dawn and Vader at Brooklyn’s Warsaw. 

Vitriol

Portland death metallers Vitriol, have not only impressed me with their debut offering, To Bathe from the Throat of Cowardice. They also impressed Nile’s Karl Sanders as he gave them a nod. This evening was a personal first seeing Vitriol perform live. They ripped into their set as though the night was theirs for the taking. Unfortunately, just like many openers, the venue wasn’t packed as it should be.

We are looking forward to seeing more from this group. They are up and coming to the death metal scene and rising at a fast pace. Do not miss them. 

Hideous Divinity

Hideous Divinity owned the stage. The group went on directly after Vitriol as they were there supporting their latest effort, Simulacrum. These Italian brutal death metallers blasted through their vicious set as it was nonstop energy from beginning to end. It was thrilling, especially seeing the vibrant delivery from frontman Enrico. It was during this moment that made the evening clear, a highly anticipated night engrossed in fantastic death metal. Considerably, the touring package is up there in rankings. Especially seeing the mix between up and coming acts to legends in the scene such as Vader. 

Hideous Divinity’s relentless performance was another example of how vital it is to get to a show as early as possible. Understandably, work, and life conflicts happen, but, sometimes you do what you have. If you haven’t yet, you should check Vitriol and Hideous Divinity out.