by JD Phillips:
After being out of the spotlight for a few years, and having to postpone their American tour due to illness, anticipation over seeing HIM play live again was high. Covering the event for DarkMedia, I took my place in the US Bank Arena in Cincinnati, waiting for the Rock Allegiance Tour to begin. The excitement in the air and on the faces of the audience in the section around me was palpable. Several fans of all ages and manner of apparel were already shouting for frontman Ville, and the rest of the Finnish rockers, eagerly awaiting the debut of band only too well-known for their live performances.
HIM, who enjoys a reputation for being one of the most artistic live bands around, did not disappoint. Known for their stage play as much as they are for their unique LoveMetal style of music, the band frequently treats fans to a dramatic entrance – and this time was no different.
By nine o’clock the band had triumphantly taken the stage; everyone appeared energetic, healthy, and in good spirits. As soon as frontman Valo swung his hips and crooned his opening lines into his microphone, the audience around me was singing and nodding their heads. It was trancelike. True to form, the band kicked things off in a big way. They played favorites “Join Me” and “Passion’s Killing Floor” (their tribute to “making love with the devil”). Also included in the setlist were four songs from their latest and most controversial album, Tears on Tape.
Despite having been sidelined with pneumonia in the Spring, frontman Ville Valo showed no signs of weakness or fatigue as he wowed the audience with his powerful baritone and only stepped off stage twice – allowing the band to indulge in lengthy instrumental solos HIM is known for. “Wicked Game”, a song Ville said was both “easy to play” and “easy to fuck up”, was transformed into concert gold as the band wove familiar melodies into a stunning montage of new and old style HIM. Mige’s bass, in particular, shined.
As fans trickled out of the building, I was able to spend some time with the band, and can only say that HIM’s absence has made them a stronger – and more formidable – unit. Musically, the show was easily one of their smoothest, and most enjoyable. If you were concerned that the drama way back in May was a sign of things to come, rest easy.
HIM is back. And in more ways than one.
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