Words Matt New
Pix Angie New Photography
Europe’s experimental folk act Heilung brought one of the most anticipated tours to Australia over the last week. A diverse band that, I must say, is new territory for me personally, but one which I was very curious to witness, as there is an incredible amount of hype surrounding them overseas. This is the band’s first visit to Australian shores, and the Big Top at Sydney’s iconic Luna Park was the venue to hold the first ritual of the tour.
Whilst waiting for the band to perform, the audience was treated to the calming background sounds of nature, which gave a feeling of being lost deep in the forests of Scandinavia. Many devoted fans would use the opportunity to channel their inner Viking or medieval influence.
Intricate and periodically correct garments caught the eye, but also reaffirmed a connection to a greater collective tribal power. The feeling of unity amongst this crowd was more than a trend, but almost more of a cult-like religious experience.
The night began with a welcoming to land by local aboriginal elders, singing a song of solidarity for our progressive and modern-day Australia. A positive indication newer generations are waking up and moving forward together for a path as one. Then it was Heilung’s turn to open their set with their ritualistic ceremony, which consisted of a blessing for every member participating in the show with smoke from a burning piece of wood. The indigenous elders were then also included in the blessing to unify all on aboriginal lands. A very powerful cultural message indeed.
Once the ceremonies had subsided, the intense nature of their musical style began like the roaring claps of a thunderstorm. The loud and powerful strike of every drum beat, the mix of guttural throat singing style of frontman Kai Uwe Faust along with the haunting shrieks of frontwoman Maria Franz. The interesting mix of culturally significant artifacts used as instruments provided a sonic landscape, unlike anything you will see in modern-day music. Many items used on stage provided a historical look into how many Europeans celebrated and created music almost 4000 years ago. Drums were adorned with the skin of animals and the blood of humans. Both human and animal bones assisted with the rhythmic backing of their ensemble.
In Maidjian was a perfect start to the set with its building anthem-like chanting. This piece prepared the audience for sounds likened to the march of war in medieval times. So many contrasting layers musically which were ever-evolving throughout every piece. The most interesting of which being the blend of many unique vocal styles that intertwined in unison with dense complex harmonies. Often at times being equally jarring as they were haunting. The vocal range of Mariz Franz is something to behold as she performed with an incredible emotive presence that was backed up by her diverse vocal abilities.
The show was visually stunning and consisted of so many intricate and culturally significant items that were very alluring and captivating. Highlighted by an elaborate light show and accompanied by a collective of Heilung Warriors, the group delivered a powerful two-hour set that barely relented, providing an experience that eclipsed time itself. Stand-out tracks included Alfadhirhaiti which incorporated the entire warrior ensemble in a tribal call-and-response chant in preparation for battle, to the ethereal melodies of Norupo which showcased the group’s wide range stylistically. I was incredibly impressed by the power and energy this band possessed, as well as the vast instrumentation they presented. The show integrated the crowd quite intimately giving the overall impression we were all part of the ritual.
Every track was a historical education in the stories of Bronze Age Europe, detailing the categories of war, evolution and human interaction, whilst providing a seance-like energy and a sense of escapism from the fabric of the modern world. The fact any group can achieve so much beyond what is seen on stage makes me feel they are more than just an experimental folk band, but more of a culturally educational experience that are very connected to their Norse roots. With many fans lost in the magic of the music, it was a sight to behold. It was a breathtaking experience I will never forget and will never be replicated. I walked away from the show very satisfied and re-energized with almost a new outlook on life.
Heilung delivered on the hype and I really look forward to seeing their unique performance transcend space and time for years to come.
