Ahead of that was a crushing set by the suburban death metal legends Afterbirth. While lacking in the synths and the lighter Opeth-esque cuts they had on the back half of last year's excellent In But Not Of the power and technicality on display more than made up for it. Vocalist Will Smith (no relation) was an active and charismatic frontman, losing himself (and for a spell his glasses) in the music.

At heart Tomb Mold's set was a demonstration of their artistic ascent and the stylistic thread that connects their LPs. Planetary Clairvoyance's title track opened the performance and was a fairly light beginning that could've fit on the new album. The weight and speed picked up thereafter and remained high over most of the set, first running through older cuts before entering a three song run taken directly off TES - "Will of Whispers", "Fate's Tangled Thread", and "Flesh As Armor" - in the zenith of the show. Not a track or note felt out of place, unified and played with utmost skill and ardor. Vella was particularly excited and impassioned, jumping and practically dancing in his part of the stage. The energy from both artist and crowd increased across the set and made for a thrilling experience.

Tomb Mold have truly outdone themselves, bringing power and progression alike and bringing out the kind of moshers whose denim jackets include Opeth and Ne Obliviscaris patches. Unfortunately I wasn't able to make their second show earlier today where they played Manor of Infinite Forms in full but footage from that set ought to be a treat.