CONCERT REVIEW: Sleep Token’s Mesmerizing AFAS Live Debut

On November 18th, 2024, Sleep Token marked a significant milestone in their career by headlining a sold-out show at Amsterdam’s AFAS Live, a venue with a capacity of 6,000. This performance was a testament to their growing prominence in the music scene.

This Amsterdam show followed the dramatic kickoff to Sleep Token‘s European tour, which had seen a rocky start. Their first tour date was marked by the absence of their drummer and bassist, IV and III, who had to sit out due to illness. Despite these challenges, the band pushed forward, adapting to a pre-recorded format and proving their resilience. The AFAS Live show felt like a triumphant declaration: Sleep Token at full strength, ready to mesmerize.

The evening’s setlist was thoughtfully curated, divided into three segments, each highlighting tracks from their three studio albums. This structure allowed the audience to experience the band’s evolution over the years. Each segment was followed by an interlude. The first segment featured selections from their debut album, Sundowning. The second part delved into This Place Will Become Your Tomb, showcasing their exploration of deeper themes. The final segment presented songs from their latest release, Take Me Back To Eden, culminating in a powerful conclusion.

Visually, the stage was filled with an array of lasers, transforming the venue into what felt like a futuristic cathedral. While stunning, it’s safe to say that anyone prone to photosensitive epilepsy should consider wearing sunglasses—or maybe staying home with the album. But seriously, the lasers were almost a performance in themselves, perfectly synced to the music and adding to the hypnotic experience. That said, some fans did comment that the show could have used a little more punch, like pyro or other dynamic effects, to amplify the spectacle.

Vessel, the enigmatic frontman of Sleep Token, delivered a captivating performance. His vocal prowess was evident throughout the evening, seamlessly transitioning between haunting melodies and more aggressive tones. Demonstrating his versatility, Vessel alternated between playing the guitar and keyboard, adding depth to the live renditions of their tracks. His ability to convey emotion through both his voice and instrumentation was a highlight of the concert.

One of Sleep Token‘s distinguishing features is their adeptness at blending heavy and melodic elements. This balance was on full display during the concert, with the band effortlessly shifting from intense, riff-driven sections to softer, more introspective passages. This kept the audience engaged and showcased the band’s musical versatility.

In summary, Sleep Token‘s first headlining show at AFAS Live was a significant achievement, reflecting their rising status in the music world. The thoughtfully structured setlist, combined with Vessel’s compelling performance and the band’s unique fusion of heavy and melodic sounds, made for a memorable evening. While the visual effects were impressive, the addition of more stage elements could have enhanced the overall experience. Nonetheless, the concert was a testament to Sleep Token’s artistry and their ability to connect with a large audience.