CONCERT REVIEW: Architects Take The Sky, The Earth & All Between To Big Amsterdam Crowd

Architects, a prominent name in the metalcore scene, have carved a remarkable path from modest venues to grand arenas, mirroring the trajectory of other influential bands like Parkway Drive. Following Parkway Drive’s recent performance, Architects took the stage at the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam, a significant step up from their earlier shows in smaller venues. However, the venue, with a capacity of approximately 17,000, was not fully occupied, with the upper tier closed off and the stage positioned notably forward, reducing the usable floor space. Despite this, the band delivered a powerful performance, captivating thousands of enthusiastic fans who filled the air with their energy.

Reflecting on Architects’ evolution brings to mind their earlier days, particularly a memorable 2015 performance at Melkweg’s Oude Zaal in Amsterdam. That show, in front of a few hundred fans, was raw and intimate—no barriers, no elaborate production, just the band’s intense music fueling a dynamic moshpit. To witness Architects now commanding the Ziggo Dome, one of the largest venues in the Netherlands, is a testament to their growth and enduring appeal, whether the show sold out or not.

Over the years, Architects have broadened their musical palette, incorporating diverse elements into their sound. Many fans consider the 2021 release of For Those That Wish To Exist as a pivotal moment, marking the beginning of their modern era with a more expansive and polished approach. The Ziggo Dome setlist leaned heavily on their recent work from the 2020s, including tracks from For Those That Wish To Exist and The Classic Symptoms of a Broken Spirit (2022). To the delight of longtime fans, the band also included older tracks like “These Colours Don’t Run” from Daybreaker (2012) and “Gravedigger” from Lost Forever // Lost Together (2014), striking a balance between their newer material and the heavier, raw sound of their earlier days.

The performance carried an emotional weight due to the recent passing of Miles Kent, a significant figure for the band, just days before the show. Architects dedicated the entire performance to his memory, creating a poignant atmosphere that resonated with the audience. We extend our deepest condolences to the band, as well as to Miles Kent’s family and friends, acknowledging the profound loss they are navigating during this time.

While the significance of seeing Architects in an arena like the Ziggo Dome was undeniable, the production fell short of expectations set by their previous performances. In recent years, Architects’ shows at AFAS Live in Amsterdam were marked by elaborate setups, including pyrotechnics or CO2 cannons and intricate laser displays that amplified the intensity of their music. I fondly remember the breakdown of ‘Nihilist’ being accompanied with pyro (or CO2 cannons). It’s edged into my brain as one of the most powerful breakdowns I have witnessed in a live setting. Their 2024 AFAS Live performance featured a multi-level stage setup, adding a dynamic visual dimension. In contrast, the Ziggo Dome show, despite being their largest Dutch venue to date, felt scaled back in terms of production. The absence of the elaborate effects and stage design that characterized their earlier shows was noticeable, leaving some fans anticipating a grander spectacle for their arena debut.

Architects remain a captivating live act, their musicianship and connection with the audience undeniable. The Ziggo Dome performance was no exception, delivering the raw energy and emotional depth that define their live shows. Accompanying this review are stunning photographs by Lars de Nijs, capturing the intensity and atmosphere of the evening. These images, available in the gallery below, offer a vivid glimpse into Architects’ milestone performance at the Ziggo Dome.