The first night of Spears of Wallachia Festival presented by Cavalleria Events kicked off on Friday, November 8, at Quantic in Bucharest, with a lineup that promised an intense plunge into the heart of black metal and death metal. This was more than a date to circle on the calendar—it was an experience that demanded to be felt. And from the very first note to the final chord, the raw intensity of the bands was palpable. The essence was unmistakable; it hung thick in the air, resonating with every beat and scream.
Spears of Wallachia 2024
© Cavalleria Events
Vampir bei Kerzenlicht: A Spellbinding Start
Vampir bei Kerzenlicht, from Romania, took the stage with notable theatricality, enhancing their set with impressive stage features that matched their dark aesthetic. The entire performance felt like a complete show, not just a series of songs but a ritualistic experience. They managed to captivate the crowd right from the beginning, showcasing a carefully curated setlist that unfolded a macabre, atmospheric journey.
They opened with “Bat Suckin’ Slut” and immediately set a sinister tone that pulled the audience into their dark world. The atmosphere grew even heavier with “Indwelled by Satan“, which seemed to cast a chilling spell over the crowd. Now, one thing about me: when I first listened to Vampir bei Kerzenlicht’s album titled “Obscure Lights Through Endless Shadow“, I found myself eagerly anticipating the chance to hear “Indwelled by Satan” live. It screams of rebellion, a theme I truly love to find in the lyrics. It is a tune against light and the holy, casting the narrator as a figure embraced by “unholy might” in the absence of light. There’s a dark defiance here—a rejection of conventional spirituality as the narrator seeks power in darkness, abandoning prayers and desecrating symbols of divinity. Lines like “Attack with spell and pray with sin” reflect an aggressive stance against the sacred, while the phrase “approach on dark wings” conjures a haunting vision of a figure advancing with malevolent purpose. By declaring, “I shall spit your fuckin wine”, there’s an unapologetic rejection of holy sacraments, intensifying the song’s defiant tone.
Vampir bei Kerzenlicht on stage, 8.11.2024
© Ștefan Lupașcu
As they moved into “Evil Entity“, the relentless tempo and eerie undertones kept the energy high, making it impossible to look away. “Pride’s Lustfull Sin” took things further, blending aggression with ominous melodies that lingered in the room. With “Altar of the Dying Sun“, Vampir bei Kerzenlicht created a haunting soundscape, immersing everyone in its bleakness.
“Hammer of Satan” (originally by Archgoat) was another brutal highlight. It was clear that the band had no intention of letting anyone catch their breath, relentlessly hammering away with no dull moments to be found. Covering GG Allin‘s “Die When You Die” added an unexpected edge, showcasing the band’s ability to channel chaotic energy into a controlled performance. Their rendition of VON‘s “Devil Pig” kept the momentum strong, building tension with its relentless rhythm. Closing with “Blasphemer” (Sodom cover), Vampir bei Kerzenlicht unleashed a devastating finale that left the crowd in stunned silence.
The vocals were fierce, while the drumming kept everything tight and precise, pushing the vigor forward. Each element came together seamlessly, ensuring that the audience remained captivated by the onslaught without a single lull.
Vampir bei Kerzenlicht on stage, 8.11.2024
© Ștefan Lupașcu
Rancorum: A Return to Form and Ferocity
The next act, Rancorum, from Romania, came to continue the “hostilities”. It’s been a while since I last had the chance to witness Rancorum live, and seeing them again was a brutal reminder of why I’ve always admired their sound. The setlist? A powerful reflection of their raw intensity, mixing their signature blend of death metal, black metal and atmospheric depth. They opened with “Bedlam of Saints“, immediately setting the stage with a fierce, unrelenting energy. Yes; when it comes to Rancorum, it’s all about energy. From start to finish, Liviu Ustinescu is unpredictable, fierce, and keeps the crowd on edge. The track’s chaotic rush of riffs and blasting drums was only heightened by the intensity of the vocals, creating a wild, frenzied atmosphere that gripped the crowd from the start.
Rancorum on stage, 8.11.2024
© Ștefan Lupașcu
Next came “Blizzard of Ashes“, which continued the onslaught with its icy, relentless pace. The song’s combination of aggression and melody felt like a storm, both brutal and beautiful in its execution. As the track unraveled, there was a sense of destruction and renewal, a recurring theme in Rancorum’s music that pulls you in. Then, “The Shining” offered a darker, more brooding atmosphere, its haunting melodies building tension before releasing into a violent wave of sound. The song’s ability to move from moments of calm to pure chaos showcases the band’s mastery of dynamics.
“Endless Rift” and “Red Sand River” were two pieces I truly appreciated, each resonating deeply with me. As for “Voidification“, it was a clear highlight of the set. The song’s complex structure and piercing lyrics took the crowd into darker, more reflective territory. The themes of confusion, societal control, and self-doubt were delivered with such power, making it one of the most intense moments of the night.
The new lineup heightened their intensity, delivering a set that showcased both Rancorum’s trademark ferocity and their evolved sound.
Rancorum on stage, 8.11.2024
© Ștefan Lupașcu
Akral Necrosis: The Sound of Chaos in Full Force
Akral Necrosis, from Romania, hit the stage with an intensity that was impossible to ignore. Their setlist was a sensory bombardment, with each song cranking up the intensity to new heights. This performance was especially charged, as it marked Philip Philipov’s final show with Akral Necrosis. His drumming, aggressive and precise, carried the weight of the moment, making each beat feel like a powerful farewell.
They kicked off with “Separator“, immediately plunging the crowd into a torrent of harsh riffs and blast beats, setting a ferocious pace for the night. “Pandemic Dominion” came after, its brutal pace and venomous vocals flooding the room with a sense of overwhelming hostility. “Pandemic Dominion” was one of the songs I’d been longing to hear live again. It carries a deep meaning for me, and hearing it unleashed in such a raw, powerful way only intensified its impact.
Akral Necrosis on stage, 8.11.2024
© Ștefan Lupașcu
“Intonation” kept the intensity high, its jagged rhythms and dissonant melodies creating a sense of unease. “Man in the Cauldron” followed with piercing vocals slicing through the chaos. “Man in the Cauldron” found its perfect place in the setlist. It’s the kind of song you want to hear right after “Intonation”. There’s something striking about it, and every time you listen, you discover something new.
And as “Man in the Cauldron” came to an end, “Winds of Ruin” erupted next, a relentless onslaught of aggression and intensity, while “Midnight” offered a brief, melancholic pause—an introspective moment before the intensity built again.
I had the chance to hear “Winds of Ruin” and “Midnight” for the first time at Hidden, and I was eager to experience these fresh tracks again. I still feel that “Midnight” perfectly captures the raw, old-school black metal vibe.
“Hounds of Plague” was a true standout, its crushing heaviness and driving rhythm having the crowd in a frenzy. “I See the Bright Lights” took a more eerie, atmospheric turn, with its unsettling guitar lines and haunting ambiance, setting a tense mood before the band dived back into the violence of “Plaguebound“. Closing with “Slay the Whore“, Akral Necrosis delivered their darkest, most savage track, a fitting end to a set that was as much about tormenting the soul as it was about the music.
When it comes to Octav Mediș, his stage presence is something to behold. He knows how to own the space, and it’s clear from the way he moves and commands attention that his experience speaks for himself. He doesn’t just perform—he takes control of the entire stage, ensuring every detail is noticed. Victor‘s guitar work is sharp and expressive, adding a textured depth that perfectly complements Octav’s commanding energy. SoYoS on bass anchors the performance with a steady, resonant foundation, while Damian‘s riffs bring a dynamic edge, creating a rich, layered sound that fills the stage.
Akral Necrosis on stage, 8.11.2024
© Ștefan Lupașcu
Three Decades of Darkness: Frostmoon Eclipse’s Triumphant Return to Romania
Returning to Romania for the first time in 12 years, Italian black metal band Frostmoon Eclipse marked their 30th anniversary with a performance that was as memorable as it was momentous. Though their influences span various styles and eras, the live show unfolded as a seamless blend, with each song carefully chosen to create a cohesive yet dynamic experience.
Frostmoon Eclipse on stage, 8.11.2024
© Ștefan Lupașcu
The show opened with “All Is Undone“, a strikingly melodic track that set the tone with a profound blend of melancholic atmosphere and raw power. The sound was rich and immersive, drawing out the essence of Frostmoon Eclipse’s songwriting with a level of intensity that captivated the audience from the start.
Following this, “I See the Void” delivered a more pensive but no less intense atmosphere, as though peering into the abyss itself. The transition into “A Room, A Grave“—a personal highlight for me—struck a collective chord with the crowd, reaching a deep level of resonance and invoking a palpable emotional connection.
The next few tracks showcased the versatility and depth of Frostmoon Eclipse’s repertoire. “Rustworm” was fierce and unrelenting, its heavy riffs embodying the oppressive themes of decay and despair. Meanwhile, “Relentless, Circling” lived up to its name, a haunting whirlpool of sound that echoed through the venue and seemed to draw the listeners into a shadowy, turbulent spiral.
“Song to Darkness” brought a somber beauty to the setlist, emphasizing mood and atmosphere, with the band carefully balancing melody and rawness. “Resignation” pushed this further, its despairing tones and intricate guitar work a testament to Frostmoon Eclipse’s skill at weaving emotional intensity into their music.
Throughout the performance, Frostmoon Eclipse brought boundless energy and passion to the stage, highlighting the unique bond they share with their music even after three decades. Guitarist Claudio Alcara, the band’s founding member, delivered riffs with the seasoned ease of someone who has long mastered his craft. Known for his work with Aere Aeternus and Stroszek, Claudio’s playing added an atmospheric richness that anchored the set’s melodic undertones. Lorenzo Sassi’s vocals seized the crowd with compelling force, blending aggression and sorrow in a way that resonated deeply. Drummer Gionata Potenti brought his extensive experience to the fore, infusing each track with precise, punishing rhythms. His presence in bands like Chaos Invocation and Darvaza adds layers to his style. On bass, Davide Gorrini contributed a brooding depth that balanced the guitars perfectly, his experience with Manetheren and Merihem evident in his fluid yet intense playing.
Frostmoon Eclipse on stage, 8.11.2024
© Ștefan Lupașcu
Final Thoughts
The first night of Spears of Wallachia 2024 was a resounding success that will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to witness it. The night kicked off with intensity and never let up, as each band delivered a performance that transcended typical expectations. From the dark, ritualistic presence of Vampir bei Kerzenlicht to the raw ferocity of Rancorum and Akral Necrosis, the stage at Quantic was set ablaze with passion and power.
Frostmoon Eclipse, marking their long-awaited return to Romania after 12 years, pouring their hearts into a powerful show. Their 30th anniversary performance was a triumphant reminder of why they’ve remained a cornerstone of the black metal scene for three decades.
Spears of Wallachia 2024
© Cavalleria Events
