Review: IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT - Live in Brisbane

10 June

2025 World Tour

Sunday 8th June 2025

Written by Jake Folmer
Photographed by: Rashid AlKamraikhi

On a crisp winter evening, The Brightside in Brisbane transformed into a haven for avant-garde metal enthusiasts. Featuring a trio of acts, SANCT, CONVULSING, and headliners IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT, each delivered a performance that challenged and captivated the audience.

Opening the night, SANCT (formerly known as SANCTIFY THE SERPENT) immersed the venue in an ambient soundscape, punctuated by ominous, FX-laden vocals. Their performance was a cacophonous blend of screeching black metal vocals from three members simultaneously, relentless blast beats, and discordant chords. The band's neo-classical influences shone through, creating a sound reminiscent of a black metal Beethoven. Political voice samples added depth to their set, culminating in a performance that was both chaotic and beautifully crafted—a testament to Tasmania's underground metal scene.

Next, CONVULSING enveloped the audience in a psychedelic void. Originally from New South Wales and now based in Victoria, the three-piece band delivered hypnotic riffs and guttural vocals that filled the venue with dread. Their set oscillated between airy ambient passages and crushing heaviness, creating a soundscape that was both unnerving and captivating. Vocalist and guitarist, Brendan’s candid interaction with the crowd, coupled with their unique blend of psychedelic doom and blackened entropy, showcased a band unafraid to push boundaries.

Headlining the evening, IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT emerged in their signature gold masks, immediately commanding attention. Their set was a masterclass in avant-garde metal, blending discordant jazz elements with blackened metal intensity. The trio's stage presence was theatrical, evoking the aura of a dystopian cult. Guitarist Zachary Ezrin, a trained jazz musician, led the charge with fluid, improvisational chaos, while drummer Kenny Grohowski's hybrid jazz/metal kit allowed for dynamic versatility. The band's performance was a sensory overload, featuring reverb-drenched vocals, bitcrushed effects, and unexpected sonic elements like biplane sounds and ‘60s show tunes. Bassist Steve Blanco added to the spectacle, at one point using his instrument to produce theremin-like tones before dramatically ending a track by stomping on his bass.

Their setlist included tracks from their latest album, Goldstar, released on March 21, 2025. Notably, the album features a guest sax solo by Kenny G on the track “Merkurius Gilded,” highlighting the band's commitment to pushing genre boundaries. Imperial Triumphant's performance was not just a concert, it was an experience. Their ability to merge disparate genres into a cohesive, immersive show solidifies their status as avant-garde metal pioneers. For those seeking a live performance that defies convention and stimulates the senses, Imperial Triumphant delivers in spades.