Dethklok, Dragonforce, & Nekrogoblikon-Waukee IA-4.15.24

Dethklok, Dragonforce, & Nekrogoblikon at Vibrant Music Hall in Waukee, Iowa on April 15th, 2024

Photos and Review by The Pit Magazine Contributor Zach Hasan in Waukee, IA. ©2024.

The air crackled with anticipation as fans from all corners of the metal realm gathered for what was about to be an unforgettable evening of headbanging, moshing, and metal mayhem with Dethklok, Dragonforce, and Nekrogobikon. Kicking off the night with an explosive energy, Nekrogoblikon unleashed their unique twist of goblin-infused metal upon the eager crowd. Songs like “Powercore” and “Darkness” were delivered with ferocious intensity, igniting a frenzy in the pit! Frontmen John Goblikon and Dickie Allen commanded the stage with an electrifying presence, effortlessly engaging the crowd with their dynamic vocals.

Nekrogoblikon Gallery

As the echoes of goblin chants faded into the night, the stage was set for DragonForce to gear up. From the first blistering notes of “Fury of the Storm,” it was clear that DragonForce was on a mission to melt faces and shatter eardrums. Guitarists Herman Li and Sam Totman dazzled with their impressive fretwork, sending solos to extreme heights while vocalist Marc Hudson blew the crowd away with his soaring vocals. Tracks like “Power of the Triforce” and “Through the Fire and Flames” sent a wave of pure adrenaline that had the crowd headbanging in unison. Despite the intensity of their performance, DragonForce maintained a tight connection with the audience, engaging them in sing-alongs and even tossing a giant plush toy chicken into the crowd!

Dragonforce Gallery

For the final act, summoned from the darkest depths of hell, Dethklok emerged to deliver a performance that was nothing short of powerful. Led by the brute Nathan Explosion, guitarists Skwisgaar Skwigelf, Toki Wartooth, William Murderface, and drummer Pickles unleashed an onslaught of guttural vocals, crushing riffs, and thunderous drums that shook the venue. Hits like “Bloodlines” and “Briefcase Full of Guts” inspired a rage of headbanging and raised fists, as fans reveled in the dark, twisted world of Dethklok’s music. It wasn’t just the music that captivated the audience, the immersive visuals added a new dimension to the experience, transporting the crowd into a dystopian world of chaos and destruction.

Dethklok Gallery

Overall, all three bands were a thrill to experience! The blend of unique theatrics, electrifying music, and visual artistry undeniably left a mark on all who witnessed.