I’m peripherally aware that there is a large contingent of metal fans who have been eagerly awaiting a new Wintersun album ever since 2004′s debut. I am not one of them, but I know that Metal Injection’s Frank Godla is and I know that there are many others like him. I’ve got nothing against the band at all, just never really had a friend grab me, shake me, and go “Listen to this album!,” ya know?

For those of you who’ve been waiting patiently these past 7 years, today we have something for you: a live version of Wintersun performing a new song called “The Way of the Fire” at this past weekend’s Metalfest in Germany. As of this writing 7,236 people have already watched the video — which was posted just two days ago — so I’d say general interest in this band is indeed really fucking high. While the new song doesn’t get me particularly excited about Wintersun it doesn’t turn me off either; I’d say it does leave me curious to hear their new album whenever it finally comes out. Thanks to Tyler Drainville for sending this in.

-VN

[This is Part 2 of Norther's tour diary from their first-ever North American tour. Part 1 can be viewed here. Enjoy. -Ed.]

22.09.2008 Quebec, I’ imperial

Our next show was in Quebec. The place was this fantastic looking venue called I’imperial, but when we arrived to the venue, we heard from the local crew that (thanks to our schedule) we were running about 4 hours late. So very quick setup on stage, about 10 minute sound check and off to give room for the local support to play. It was a very big stage, so support band could set their gear up easily and we wouldn’t have to move anything. We tried to delay the doors to have some more time for sound-checking, but it couldn’t be done for some reason. This later bit us in the ass..

When Nefastus Dies goes on stage, we start our “backstage rituals” (More to come from these). Usually Pete entertains everyone with a bunch of crappy hard rock or death metal riffs that always end in crazy ass laughter. :) if that isn’t happening, we’re listening to good music to get the mood going. Artists like September, The Haunted, Slayer, Fun Lovin’ Criminals or others that get us all in good mood is a must before the show. :)

Anyways, show time. We rushed to the stage to kick off with “My Antichrist” followed by “Down.” One, Two, Three, Four… CHAOS… This would be the exact description of unleashing hell. Everything was totally fucked, instantly.

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