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In recent years, the idea of “rock ‘n’ roll is dead” has been thrown around mostly by aging artists in the twilight of their career. Others (myself included) vehemently disagree. As an aging metalhead, I can see both sides. The problem is with us aging ‘heads. We can be relentless with enforcing the perimeters of what is and is not acceptable in our genres. Regardless, one thing we ALL share, is that no matter what genre you’re into, rock ‘n’ roll is the heart and soul.

There’s an abundance of bands/artists in our community that ferociously defend the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. Some have been in the trenches for decades. Although the list is arguably lengthy, one of the standouts has become Amon Amarth. Founded in 1992, the death metal Swedes have only recently become regarded as one of metals vital acts, despite being active for thirty-three years.

You might say, Amon Amarth’s recent trajectory has been surprisingly impressive… evidence shows you’d be correct. Much larger venues, more elaborate tours, sold-out arena shows, first death metal band headlining Red Rocks, headlining Wacken, etc, (that’s only this year so far!) - support this assertion. To understand the rise in popularity, you only have to attend an Amon Amarth raid for confirmation. The bands stage show has evolved to rival the likes of Iron Maiden, in terms of theatrics, stage props and storytelling.

Amon Amarth’s music has always been considered melodic. Over the past few albums, this has taken more of a front seat, resulting in all guitar harmonies being sung at full volume, by enthusiastic crowds. Speaking of being sung at full volume, Amon Amarth has developed ANTHEM writing prowess. A few examples being: “The Pursuit Of Vikings”, “Twilight Of The Thunder God”, “Raise Your Horns”, “Put Your Back Into The Oar”, “Heidrun”, along with a host of others, are bellowed with passion by all in attendance, at any given Amon Amarth performance. It was astonishing to witness the entire packed house at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, SIT AND ROW during ‘Put Your Back into The Oar’. PURE. FUN. Equally powerful was the deafening chant “COTY! COTY! COTY!” after Amon Amarth front man Johan Hegg, reveals to the crowd that working Red Rocks, was a bucket-list item for their beloved guitar tech – Coty Allinson

As a guest at Amon Amarth’s historical Red Rocks headlining show, also on the Metal Crushes All Tour, I was able to experience the phenomenon on a nightly basis, which verified that Amon Amarth is doing their part to keep rock & roll alive, well, and thriving! *Check out the Photo Gallery for proof!

Following their highly-esteemed Metal Crushes All Tour, Amon Amarth’s highly-anticipated Heidrun Over Europe Tour, starts July 27, 2024, in Plovdiv, BG. Europe, don’t sleep on this one! Get dates and tickets for HEIDRUN OVER EUROPE - here.