LIVE(STREAM) REVIEW: TesseracT @ P O R T A L S, Lite Up Studios

Whilst some lucky musicians have managed to perform in front of a strict limit of attendees most are still depending on the technological gift of livestreaming to assist in bringing their live shows to the fans. Next up is progressive metallers TESSERACT and their intriguing P O R T A L S concept. This performance would be split into five chapters but until the time of viewing we were unsure what this would entail.

Interestingly the first instalment commenced with Altered State material. The only album to not feature illustrious frontman Daniel Tompkins. This was a bold statement of intent from the quintet as they confidently and meticulously reeled off all three parts of the Of Matter trilogy with Tompkins putting his own emphatic stamp on these performances, showing he is more than up for the challenge that lays ahead. The sound was crystal clear from the offset and for those fortunate enough to be able to take advantage of the 4K quality made available will have reaped the full benefits of the crisp, sharp tone. Slotting King from 2018’s Sonder album into the back end of this chapter as an unexpected curveball worked perfectly as its dramatic yet accessible nature gave you instant goosebumps.

To the TESSERACT fans who have been around since day one the second section felt like a warm embrace from an old friend as the instantly recognisable notes of Concealing Fate rang throughout Lite Up Studios, providing instant nostalgia. The distinct difference in style was immediate as the intensity was dialled up a notch, particularly in Tompkins vocal delivery as he unleashed powerful bursts of intense screams. Deception was arguably the standout track that assisted in helping them break through to the forefront of the new wave of the progressive/tech metal movement and its jarring heaviness was a true joy to be reacquainted with.

With seven songs already in the bag the band were firmly in the groove, poised to dish out the next surprise of the evening. Three live debuts straight after each other. Focusing on more recent entries in their catalogue from Polaris and Sonder, the trifecta of Tourniquet, Beneath My Skin/Mirror Image and Orbital sent another seismic surge through the speakers of the viewers. If that wasn’t enough we were also treated to the live debut of Cages which shortly followed alongside Juno, Dystopia and Phoenix giving a considerable nod to this era. As well as the first live outings for a good portion of tracks we also had the pleasure of seeing the returns of Eden (the last time it was played was almost a decade ago) and Of Energy – Singularity (which has not found its way into the setlists since 2014). The live debut of Of Energy – Embers and the emotional rollercoaster of Seven Names neatly wrapped up this career-spanning performance.

Whilst the conceptual imagery and sequences intertwined in the over-arching concept didn’t add a great deal with regards to the overall package it showed that TESSERACT have invested time and consideration into how they can construct a more thoughtful individual experience which envelopes the listener beyond just the performance footage. Potentially with less restrictions and safety regulations to comply with this could have been elaborated on and become more of a focal point to tie the sections together.

A huge applause is due to the national treasure that is Mike Malyan for learning a massive 19 tracks to fill in for absent drummer Jay Postones due to him residing in Texas and unable to participate. The light show was a marvel and certainly added to the ever changing dynamics that the band showcased. Being able to orchestrate and choreograph over ten years worth of material to ensure it flowed and kept the viewer on the edge of their sofa is no simple task but every single track was executed with phenomenal precision and is precisely why TESSERACT are considered one of the UK’s top bands. It must be difficult to perform songs with such levels of passion and intensity and not be able to witness a crowd losing their minds but if they can bring this level of production to their future touring it will be one impressive sight to behold.

Rating: 9/10

Check out a selection of photographs from the stunning livestream below: