Truls Morck, Graveyard, Photo credit: Ola Wilk

The four norsemen of the rockpocalpyse have landed on US soil and it would be an understatement to say it was anything less than glorious. For their most recent trek to the eastern coast of America, Graveyard brought along fellow Gothenburgian glammers Spiders who brought a high energy performance to the Brooklyn audience.  Ann-Sofie fronted the quintet with an intensity that could easily draw comparisons to the greats of yesteryear such as Janis Joplin and Grace Slick, while one time witchcraft guitarist, John Hoyles displayed his prowess as if ringing a bell (or performing some other effortless action). Olle Griphammer (one of the more badass names) and temporary drummer Pontus Jordan set a solid foundation for the former to build upon.

At the sound of the last power chord, the time had come for Graveyard. The moody, dynamic “No Good Mr.Holden” was first in line for the night, providing a certain dark tone that would recur for most of the night. “From A Hole In The Wall” was the second song up and vocal duties were handed over to bass player Truls Morck who’s crooning voice translates perfectly to a live setting. The setlist was as varied as one could want, the only gripe would be only one song (also featuring Morck on vocals) from Graveyard’s first album was included in the set. This would pose a problem provided the rest of the set wasn’t full of damn good songs. The setlist was constructed with precision and intent, “Buying Truth” would transition into “Seven Seven” while the mellow ending of “Hisingen Blues” would set the stage for the psychedelic intro of “Endless Night.” New songs such as “Too Much Is Not Enough” and ” The Apple And The Tree” had infinitely more power to them in a live setting. While perhaps not the most interesting band to watch as stage presence is concerned, Graveyard more than makes up for this with masterfully crafted songs and undeniably tight musicianship.

Graveyard photo credit: Ola Wilk

Joakim Nilsson, Graveyard. Photo credit: Ola Wilk

Joakim Nilsson, Graveyard, Photo credit: Ola Wilk

Ann-Sofie, Spiders. Photo credit: Ola Wilk

Olle Griphammer, Spiders, Photo credit: Ola Wilk