Live Review: Ice Nine Kills @ O2 Forum Kentish Town – (01/06/2023)

Ice Nine Kills were set to kick off the UK leg of their tour back in March, but after a delay it was pushed back to June. I first saw them at O2 Academy Islington back in 2019, when I knew little about them but thoroughly enjoyed what I heard. This time around, I’m a huge fan and after waiting a few extra months to see them, I was eager for them to come on stage.

The venue was packed solid and very clearly sold out. I managed to find a spot on the stairs, with an elevated view – that suited my short stature! After arriving well after doors opening the first band I caught was Skynd. I have to be honest and say although I appreciated their energy and stage presence, their music just wasn’t for me at all. They had their fans though and the crowd seemed to enjoy it, singing along to the catchy lyrics.

Eventually though, we made it through to the reason we were all here. Ice Nine Kills explodes onto the stage with Funeral Derangements. It’s extremely clear this is the moment everyone has been waiting a long time for as the place instantly animates furiously and excitedly, the sound of the crowd is deafening. Next up is the title of the tour, Wurst Vacation, which is received with the same enthusiasm.

This continues throughout the entire set. The passion and volume of the fans is an overwhelming mass of noise. Ice Nine Kills goes from song to song with fast pace, each one with its own theatrical performance involved. IT is the End has us see Pennywise and Georgie, The Shower Scene brings us the iconic Psycho scene played out on stage and Farewell II Flesh displays a homage to Candyman and his brutal hook. It’s difficult to choose a favourite as they were all fantastic. The props and additional performers were awesome, along with Spencer Charnas hamming it up with glee.

The whole show goes unbelievably fast, with 14 songs gone in what feels like minutes. The energy is electric the entire time and everyone felt like massive, loyal fans. Singing their heart out, myself included. Spencer has confidence in the crowd’s ardour too as he jumps straight in, instantly being supported by dozens of hands.

There’s a reason they’re sold out for both London dates and booked for Download. It’s clear to see right here. Ice Nine Kills are the perfect band for me, and many others. The marriage of horror and metal is exquisite. A musically impressive and catchy band, with beautiful vocals suited to melody and heavier screams. They can do it all. I very much look forward to seeing them go the distance and can’t wait to see them in an even bigger venue next time!

Overall, a fantastic and unique show. Ice Nine Kills knock it out the park playing banger after banger with ease, only stopping for costume changes. It’s obvious from the fan base in attendance that we’re all hungry for more and another visit to London could easily sell out a bigger location.

My only negatives are I didn’t much fancy the support and it was very tightly packed. The steps I was standing on seemed a little difficult to navigate for the inebriated and sober alike and perhaps should be more clearly marked. They do provide a great view for those of us a little further back though!