Leprous Stuns at August Hall with a Powerful Performance

by Marc Fong

Celebrating the release of their latest album “Melodies of Atonement,” Norwegian metal band Leprous stopped by SF’s August Hall and delivered a stirring and dynamic performance that captivated the audience from the very first note. Known for their precise blend of progressive metal and experimental rock, the band’s immaculate musicianship and emotional depth were on full display. Einar Solberg’s soaring vocals moved effortlessly between haunting falsettos and powerful screams, while Baard Kolstad’s intricate drumming injected an energy that was both intense and mesmerizing. Their setlist, showcasing tracks from “Melodies of Atonement,” created an emotional ebb and flow that kept the crowd fully engaged. Songs like “Atonement” and “Below” stood out for their opulent dynamics, taking the audience on a journey from delicate introspection to crushing crescendos.

Visually, the band complemented their sonic intricacies with a minimal yet striking stage setup. The interplay of stark lighting and shadow created an atmospheric backdrop that heightened the mood of each song. Leprous maintained a strong connection with the crowd, with Einar engaging between songs in a sincere and humble manner, reinforcing the intimate yet powerful vibe of the show. Their ability to blend technical precision with raw emotional expression left a lasting impression on the audience, proving that Leprous is a band that transcends genres and creates an unrivaled live experience.

“Melodies of Atonement” is in stores and streaming now.

Setlist from Leprous’ 9/26/24 August Hall performance:

1. Silently Walking Alone
2. The Price
3. Illuminate
4. I Hear the Sirens
5. Like a Sunken Ship
6. Nighttime Disguise
7. Acquired Taste
8. Unfree my Soul
9. Below
10. Faceless
11. Slave
12. From the Flame
13. Atonement