On the 28th of September 2024, something monumental occurred at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an ancient theatre nestled at the foot of the Acropolis in Athens. For the first time in history, a death metal band performed at this iconic venue, breaking new ground not only for the band but for the Greek metal scene at large. Septicflesh, one of Greece’s most prominent and internationally respected death metal bands, took the stage alongside the Athens State Orchestra, marking an event that was as significant as it was symbolic. This performance was more than just a collaboration between metal and classical music; it was a resounding statement—an acknowledgment of the legitimacy and artistic depth of heavy metal in Greece. On that night, Septicflesh and the entire Greek metal community shattered the cultural barriers that had long kept metal on the fringes of artistic recognition in the country.
by Dimitris Zacharopoulos
photos by Iro Kalligeri (@irokalligeriphotography)
As the clock approached 9:00 pm, anticipation buzzed through the air, and by 8:45 pm, the ancient theatre was packed. Thousands of metal fans, eager to witness this unprecedented fusion of musical styles, filled the Herodeion. The historical significance of the moment was palpable, and the audience was prepared for something truly extraordinary. The stage was set, and shortly after, the choir and orchestra musicians entered, led by the renowned conductor Koen Schoots. As the last note of the orchestra’s prelude settled, the members of Septicflesh appeared to a thunderous roar from the crowd, signaling the beginning of a night to remember.
From the opening notes, it was clear that Septicflesh had prepared meticulously for this event. Their performance was nothing short of spectacular, blending the ferocity of death metal with the grandeur of symphonic orchestration. The band, well-versed in performing with orchestras from their previous endeavors, delivered a tight and passionate performance. Their intricate compositions, which often feature symphonic elements, took on a new life as they were complemented by the lush, dynamic sounds of the Athens State Orchestra and the choir.
The setlist covered a wide range of Septicflesh’s discography, focusing on their symphonically driven albums like “Codex Omega” and “Communion”. The band’s technical prowess was on full display, with their complex guitar riffs and blast beats intertwining seamlessly with the sweeping orchestral arrangements. The combination of metal’s raw energy with the orchestra’s epic, cinematic sound created a performance that was powerful and awe-inspiring.
The orchestra and choir added layers of depth and drama to the already theatrical sound of Septicflesh, creating moments that felt otherworldly. The sheer contrast between the brutality of growled vocals and double-bass drumming against the elegance of strings, brass and woodwinds was striking, yet the collaboration was so well-executed that it felt natural. It was not merely a symphonic accompaniment to a metal show; it was a true fusion of two musical worlds, both of which thrive on intensity and emotional power.
Throughout the performance, Septicflesh maintained a strong connection with the audience. The band’s frontman, Seth Siro Anton, expressed gratitude to the fans multiple times, acknowledging the significance of the event and the support the band had received over the years. This interaction created an atmosphere of unity—metalheads, classical music enthusiasts and casual concertgoers alike were brought together by the sheer force of the music.
While the overall performance was near flawless, there was one minor issue: the guitar sound at times lacked the prominence it deserved in the mix. Balancing the heavy distortion of electric guitars with the delicate timbres of classical instruments is no easy feat, and in this case, the orchestra occasionally overpowered the guitar. However, this did little to diminish the impact of the show. The sheer scale of the performance and the excitement of the audience more than made up for this small technical oversight.
As the final notes reverberated through the open-air theatre and the band took their bow, there was a sense that something truly historic had just transpired. Septicflesh, through this performance, had opened a new chapter for metal in Greece. They had proven that heavy metal could stand proudly on the same stage where ancient Greek dramas were once performed, gaining the respect and recognition of the broader artistic community. For years, metal in Greece had existed in the underground, loved by devoted fans but rarely acknowledged in mainstream cultural discussions. This concert shattered that divide, making a bold statement that metal is not only a valid art form but a powerful one deserving of its place among other musical and artistic traditions.
As we exited the Herodeion that night, the excitement in the air was undeniable. Septicflesh had delivered an unforgettable performance, and their collaboration with the Athens State Orchestra had set a new precedent for what is possible within the Greek metal scene. This event will be remembered not just as a triumph for Septicflesh, but as a landmark moment for heavy metal in Greece as a whole.
