Avatar Comes to Portland, Maine – July 8, 2022

Is there anything better to do on a Friday night in Portland, Maine than to see the insane theatrics of Avatar? Patrons gathered into Aura, ready to headbang the night away with their favorite metal acts. Leading the night, The Callous Daoboys and Light The Torch paved the way for the metal geniuses behind Avatar.

The Callous Daoboys

The Callous Daoboys, who filled in for Otep, who unfortunately had to drop from the tour due to travel issues, are a group of 7 (seven!) metal/mathcore musicians from Atlanta, Georgia. Utilizing violin and synth made The Callous Daoboys an incredibly unique act that was energizing to watch. Their performance made for a perfect intro into the chaotic delightfulness of the night.

Light the Torch

Up next was Light The Torch, a metalcore band coming from Los Angeles. Their set was fast-paced and fun. Tons of fans were familiar with the band’s work as they sang along with the smooth vocals of the lead singer, former Killswitch Engage singer Howard Jones. A couple of the songs their guitarist, Ryan Wombacher, performed backing vocals on. To say I was insanely impressed with his vocals would be an understatement, as he killed every song he accompanied on.

Avatar

Sweden is known for many things, like… Swedish Fish? And Avatar. Definitely Avatar. While their roots are from Sweden, Avatar has made a lasting impression on their US fan base, so much that we were lucky enough to have a stop on their Wicked Tour Title in the quaint city of Portland, Maine. Diehard metal heads raised their horns in welcoming the five member ensemble into the crowded venue, opening the night with their hit “Colossus.” During the opening the members all stood united, staring out into the crowd with stiff faces. Transitioning into a different tone, “Let It Burn” played as they riled up the crowd. If you weren’t getting hit by hair from head banging, you weren’t in the right part of the venue.

Something unique about Avatar was the connection they yearned to create with the crowd, reassuring them that while this year felt lonely, they were there to fill the void and rocked out for almost two hours. You can expect to see prop usage, costume changes, intimate moments and passion when seeing Avatar perform. Anytime Avatar graces North America with their tour, be sure to stop by and catch the experience. Anyone, even someone who isn’t a metal fan, would enjoy the effort and emotion that goes into their performance.