Sonata Arctica

Sonata Arctica Incredible energy, great sound, but sometimes too technical. I went to this show for Delain. VIP tickets definitely worth the cost. Stood front row center...almost too close

It was an amazing show. Live nation and the people organizing the show left a bad taste in my mouth. I know some of the fans don't like it when ex's show up to shows but really so childish. Still I would say it is show worth seeing in person. The melodies simply are too flat sounding on the CDs. The best part of the show is the interaction between the band and their fans. It crazy to watch some of the things they do.

All in all, these guys are pretty amazing musicians and the crowd seemed to enjoy the show, so i think I'm in the minority here, but honestly, i was disappointed. They played all of their songs well, but their song selection was poor. Instead of speeding things up and really getting the crowd going, they chose to play ballad after ballad. As a result the audience pretty much just stood around (with the exception of the last song). The lead singer would NOT stop talking and he had nothing interesting to say. Great vocalist, but not a very interesting stage talker. Bottom line, if you liked For the Sake of Revenge or their other live material, you'll be disappointing seeing them live now

Ok, so the first three bands weren't horrible, but they weren't all that great either, in fact I was pretty bored with them. However, Sonata Arctica by themselves, made the whole show five stars. Tony Kakko is one of the best frontman's I've seen, full of energy, love, and creativity. Not to mention Sonata Arctica sounds great live. The set list was really good, I would have only added one or two more songs, but they played for quite some time and you could tell Tony Kakko was tired, but he kept going for the fans, it was awesome.

The Galaxy recently re-opened and while it was lovely, the food remains abysmal and the drinks remain horribly priced. The opening bands were pretty horrid, but the second band, Exile, was great. Sonata Arcitca themselves were amazing as always. Such energy, such talent. I am not a big fan of the last two albums, but the songs they chose off of them, aside from The World is Angry were great. Lots of fun, as always.

Absolutely an amazing show. Tony Kakko & the band members have such great interaction with their fans. The Galaxy Theater setting helped make the music experience up close & personal. The opening bands were great. My nephews were ecstatic to see their favorite band, seeing their eyes in amazement with Sonata Arctica was great to see. They came home with such gratitude after having such an amazing time seeing Sonata Arctica! Thank you, Sonata Arctica for making their experience awesome!

On the last leg of their North American Tour, Sonata Arctica came to the Rave in Milwaukee, WI where they played in front of a packed bar. Playing a whole host of songs both from their new album, The Days of Grays, and from previous work. Overall a totally amazing experience as they are a truly great live band.

I was here only to see Leaves Eyes and Dark Tranquility. Neither disappointed. First time seeing Leaves Eyes, really enjoyed them. Second time seeing Dark Tranquility and they were as good as the first time that I saw them. As far as the rest of the lineup I just did not get into any of them and was glad that the two bands I was there to see did not disappoint.

Great bands, great songs, great show. It was pretty great.

Sonata Arctica & Leaves' Eyes were amazing. Another fantastic concert☺

I've been a fan of Sonata Arctica for about 10 years and this was my first opportunity to see them live. From what I heard, this was a convergence of two shows coming together, so there were 7 bands, most of which were new to me. The first band, Starkill, was amazing. I've seen them once before and instantly became a fan. The second band, Enforcer, was a lot of fun. Very 80's metal, which I love. Third, Omnium Gatherum, also very entertaining. They had a great stage presence, very high energy. Fourth, Leaves Eyes, not typically my cup of tea, but were very powerful on stage and converted me to a fan. Up to this point, every band was amazing and I would have rated 5 of 5. Then there was Swallow the Sun, a doom metal band. I find the style of music to be enjoyable, a strange mix of slow and speed, but their performance brought me down. For the most part, they just stood there, but two of their members were rocking out. Dark Tranquility came up, and tried to bring the energy back up. I feel they did an awesome job, but the set went on too long. At this point, I just wanted to see the band I came to see, Sonata Arctica. Finally, Sonata Arctica got up on stage. They were fantastic! His voice sounded exactly as on their albums. They had a great stage presence. I hope they come back with fewer bands, so that I have the energy to stay until the end next time. As for the show over all, there were maybe 100 people in attendance, so it was quite an intimate setting. I was very happy that the bands didn't hold back, given the small crowd. However, the only effects were lights and Sonata Arctica was the only band with a banner. My main complaints are 1. the sudden drop in energy from Swallow the Sun, and 2. I was standing for 6 hours and my feet were killing me. Otherwise, I would definitely go back for any one of the other 6 bands.

The overall environment has exceeded my expectations at all levels. The performances are amazing, friendly environment, and a very good views to see the artists.

We always love going to the Masquerade. The shows are invariably fantastic. Sonata was brilliant as always. This was my first time seeing them live and my husband's third. They are just so good. Being able to meet them was an added bonus and well worth the VIP ticket. Thanks to them for making Atlanta part of the tour. Special thanks to Delain and Xandria for joining them. They are 2 of my favorites and I love getting to see and speak to them. Having all three together was our favorite show of the year.

I apologize to any Sonata Arctica fans as I was unable to stay for their show (work early in the morning). So do not take my review title as a slight. I was there for Delain and they were just fantastic. They weren't the mainline band so they only played a 10 song set, but it was superb. This was my first concert in a long time and I'd forgotten how much energy there is at a live show. They are coming again in May with Nightwish and I already grabbed tix to that event. The surprize of the evening was how good Xandria was. I had never really heard of them before, and they had even a shorter set, just 5 songs, but it was phenomenal. The lead singer's voice is amazing (I'll be frank and say it was so good I wondered for a moment if it were recorded, but I don't think it was). I've added them on my Pandora channel as a result of the show and look forward to hearing more from them.

I drove from Pensacola, FL to the Masquerade with a buddy of mine just to see Sonata Arctica. I had never seen them live before. The Tickets said section: heaven and seat numbers. I've been to the Masquerade before, but have never been inside. I walked in and there were no seats, thankfully. You don't go to a metal show to sit down and relax. You go to scream, headbang, jump around, and mosh. The inside was awesome and the bartender was super nice and quick. The lighting and sound were perfect and the AC was cold. All of the bands were great. Tony was really energetic the whole night, jumping around everywhere. Have always been a fan of this venue. See you on Halloween for "something metal this way comes"!!

great show, enjoyed the opener bands more than I thought I would, really wish SA had played "Broken"

Coming into this show, I had very low expectations. Sonata Arctica was my favorite band about ten years ago, but I didn't like any of their newer albums. I figured I would check them out anyway. I never saw them live before. I didn't know anything about the two opening bands, Xandria and Delain. Well, a friend of mine and I came in in the middle of Xandria's set and were immediately blown away. The singing was heavenly: a mix between opera and symphonic metal. Very unique. Delain was up next and was just as badass. Then Sonata Arctica came on. At first they played some new songs that I didn't know well but were 100x better live than on the studio albums. Then they began playing all the old, fast, power metal classics from Ecliptica and Silence and me and everyone else in the audience went nuts. I'm very glad I decided to go to this show. Tons of fun. Would recommend to any fan of power metal.

I love this venue, even if the sound technician was a bit off with his tuning. The venue along with the band was amazing. Every chance I get to go to this venue I get tickets there, instead of other venues. I'm willing drive extra miles just to come here. Staff is friendly and helpful. Sonata Arctica was amazing I wasn't really a fan going in, my boyfriend is. Leaving I was as much as a fan as he is. So much heart and love was put into their music. The fact that their from Finland made it that much amazing.

Very easy venue to get in and out of. The cover bands, Xandria and Delain, were absolutely awesome! My wife and I had a great time and can't wait for them to come back!

Simply EXCELLENT band and location. Excellent supprt acts (Delain were even better) \\m/

Xandria was an amazing opener, I had not heard of them before the show, but they rocked! \\m/ their drummer closed them out like a true metal drummer, and you could tell the whole band enjoyed being there playing for us. Delain was awesome as always, can't wait to see them again. Sonata made it clear that they live for live music. 15 years after their first album, and they are still putting rocking hard. Every metal fan needs to see them live.

I found Sonata Arctica in 2010 and quickly became a massive fan to the point where they became my favorite band ever!! This was my first time seeing them and I could not have been happier. I got to talk to all the guys in the band and they are incredibly nice people. It really means a lot when your idols talk to you and let you get pictures and autographs. The opening acts were solid and I enjoyed them but after the 2+ years of waiting I was ready for Sonata. They were on fire all night. An amazing setlist and the crowd was involved all night! Each member of the band was sensational and I never wanted it to end! I walked away with Henkka's towel Tommy's drumstick autographs, pictures and some of my most treasured memories! Thanks to they guys and crew in the band for an amazing show and please come back soon!!!

I'd never really been to a concert before, but I was blown away! My dad, who doesn't really enjoy their music when I play it anywhere else, even enjoyed their show! The lights were really nice and their live sound was just great! Every member of the band had some sort of solo too, which was really nice! Song choice and audience participation was great. There were multiple points in the show with sing-along moments and Tony put in extra effort to keep everyone engaged. The all around atmosphere was fantastic. Can't wait until I can get the chance to see them again! We all had a great time and really enjoyed it.

There were Five bands that played that night. I felt it was too much, everyone was there for Sonata Arctica, I didn't want to sit through four bands I don't care about to get to the good stuff, However When the band "Powerglove" came on stage they rocked! They are highly recommended in my book. After Powerglove I was worried the Sonata Might not be able to top em, Boy was I wrong! From the moment they came on stage Sonata Arctica Kicked Ass. they're very good at amping the crowed! Overall Great performance! See em if you can you'll love it. I'll certainly be seeing them again.

As a huge fan of Sonata Arctica I was fortunate enough to see their first gig of this tour in Philadelphia and this their last in Springfield. This is such an entertaining band and no two shows are alike, with varying set lists and Tony's "chat" sessions - he always has something amusing to say and seems to enjoy saying it! - while the rest of the band look indulgently on! They played something from each of their albums, from obvious crowd pleasers and sing-a-longs to more profound songs from the new album Days of Grays. To see Juliet being performed live just gives real meaning to the song when listening to the track on the album. For anyone who likes an evening of good entertainment, this is the band to go and see. Lets hope they head this way again soon! Support bands Mutiny Within also continued to impress (one to look out for) and Powerglove - well, they are just plain different!!

The location threw me off at first, but once we got into place inside of the show, it was absolutely amazing. The club environment was new to me. The two local-ish bands were decent, a good way to start. Powerglove definitely rocked the hell outta that place. They made me reminisce about some old games, and tv shows. Mutiny Within is great, the guys in that band are extremely down-to-earth as well. Sonata Arctica stole the show, however. They did such a great job, and Tony Kakko seemed absolutely enthusiastic about the entire show. It was the best show I have been to yet.

The opening band Theocracy was amazing! I was not expecting the first band to be any good but they were almost favorite band at the show. Tetrarch wasn't very good. Their music was mediocre and boring. They did a decent job covering master of puppets though. Power glove was an amazing show. I haven't ever seen anything like their performance and would be willing to see them again. Mutiny Within was flawless. They had a great stage presence while executing their songs perfectly. Sonata Arctica was amazing as well. They got the crowd involved and did some cool extras such as a keytar solo.

Sonata Arctica played a fantastic, energetic, engaging show. Anyone in the venue who was able to stand still clearly has issues with the 'rock out' center in their brain.

This concert was incredible!!! I went with some friends, one being the reason I went as this is her FAVORITE band. Most of the opening acts were decent, PowerGlove being the highlight of the openers. But one was not so awesome, but that may be personal preference. Sonata Arctica was ... absolutely mindblowing! I wish they'd had a larger crowd to play for, but they were excited and energetic and funny. The only way the night would have been better is if we'd actually been able to meet them after. The venue was awesome. I liked the 2 story layout, and there seemed to be enough air circulation. Even though it was a metal concert, I wasn't sweating like a pig when we left. I would DEFINITELY do it again.

The guys were fantastic! I was a bit disappointed with the lack of crowd interaction (hand grabbing and whatnot) but the guys did a great job. One issue of concern was the sound quality (which is the responsibility of The Masquerade). The vocals were largely drowned out...which is a damned shame considering Tony's awesome voice. Still...the show was great!

So we all knew that Sonata Arctica was going to be awesome. What we didn't know was that Mutiny Within and Power Glove were two of the best opening bands I've seen. I don't usually leave concerts thinking "Wow I need to buy the opening band's CDs immediately" and wishing I brought more cash to the venue. When/If this show comes to your area, it is most certainly work the cost!

Going into the show I wasn't sure what to expect, Sonata's previous album and their latest didn't seem like they would translate easily to the stage. As I was watching the first bands I was hoping I wouldn't be disappointed. Some of the acoustics of the venue were bad, combined with not-the-best soundboard running, or something, because two of the bands, the first one whose name I don't remember or know and Mutiny Within both came across as barely audible noise, when I could tell that MI's music was nice, and that they weren't doing anything wrong themselves. They still managed to get the crowd going even though the sound quality wasn't the best (you couldn't even hear the lead guitar for the solo until about 10 seconds into it when the guy running the board bumped up his level or something, and I couldn't tell what the lyrics were.) Power Glove though was the band that got the crowd going the most (other than SA of course!) The video game and classic cartoon theme song music covered in a metal style with lots of enthusiasm and comedy goes over really really well. It was great and funny to see everyone jumping and fist pumping, chanting 'go go power rangers!' Then Sonata came out on stage and after an intro of 'everything fades to gray' backing track, they played Flag in the Ground (I think that was the first one) and I was pleasantly surprised, or I should say, not disappointed at all - the new songs go very very well on stage, and everyone was into the music, I sang every song I could, but alas nobody can sing like tony. In fact, as I was watching I thought to myself that they were in at least as good of form as they were for the 'for the sake of revenge' DVD, everything was tight and well done. Elias seemed to pull off the solos effortlessly and Henkka did just as well. I'm still really excited from seeing the show! Overall it was really amazing, I'm surprised I still have my voice from trying to sing like Tony, and I liked the new songs VERY much when played live, and they really got the crowd going, it was just great.

Sonata Arctica rocked the Masquerade The vocals were right on and the band was tight. Sound mix was right for the room. Great set - good mix of the new album and songs from the past.

When Sonata Arctica finally came on, they were beyond expectation. Tony Kakko was flawless as always hitting all the right notes, maintaining perfect intonation, and had perfect phrasing not clipping off a single note. Henrik Klingenberg had a brilliant solo mixed in. He played in good taste, while also displaying his masterful command of the keytar. The only thing that was somewhat of a let down was the chosen set list. It was lack luster and very predictable. You guys are better than that. Playing only Fullmoon and 8th commandment from Ecliptica was a big let down. How about throwing in some My Land, Destruction Preventer, Blank File, Letter to Dana or any of those amazing songs? Provide us with more variety. I could say the same for Silence, Reckoning Night, and Winterheart's Guild. You have such an amazing repertoire to choose from why not play something different EVERY TIME you come down here? Friday night's set list seemed just too similar and repetitive from the last time you came down here. I would have rather you cut one of the four opening bands and added some some of your more meaningful and unique songs. Perhaps Shamandalie? or Wildfire? I don't know, all I know is that when you come down here again I will again purchase my tickets three months in advance, come two hours early and hope with all my heart that you will play something different! Less predictable and WOW us! That's what we want and you didn't do that.

The only reason this isn't a five-star review is because it took so long to get through crap bands. It was billed as three bands (Sonata Arctica, Powerglove, and Mutiny Within), but Shadows Entwined and Shotgun City were there. Shotgun City, Shadows Entwined, and Mutiny Within were all rubbish. Mutiny Within confused me, since I had heard their album and wasn't unhappy with it; I was hoping for a good show. Then they kept babbling, acting like everyone came there specifically for them. On top of that, they had the gaul to advertise their merchandise and CDs during their time on stage. Unless my brain has malfunctioned, it's not uncommon for bands to have stuff with their name/music on it. Shadows Entwined had zero rhythm with their own song, which was visually impairing. Shotgun City was more or less unimpressive. Powerglove was awesome to watch. Even if it's all metal video game or cartoon music, it was still pretty fun. They had an amazing stage presence and crowd command. Sonata was wonderful. Even though we had to wait the three and a half hours for them to exhist on stage, it was bloody amazing. Great line-up of songs, wonderful mix of old and new music, brilliant introductions... Conversing with the crowd. They were perfect, and I would definitely go to see them again; in fact, I would go through all the crap bands to see them again.

There were too many bands. Five? Sonata Arctica didn't come on until almost midnight. Two of the other bands were good but they should warn you. The ticket only mentioned one other, Powerglove, and they were actually third on the bill, not second. When someone else came on after them I couldn't believe it. I was ready and then made to wait another long hour. But it was of course worth it when the headliner took the stage. Black Sheep especially just hit the spot. And the Galaxy is setup so that you can always find a good viewing angle.

Sonata Arctica is one hell of a band! Natural entertainers and performers every one of them. High energy, great crowd interaction, incredible voice, and talented musicians. See their show and you won't regret it. P.S. The Venue wasn't a bad small venue either. Nice clean place that is well run.

Awesome! excellent musicians did a very good job! would go and see them again buy all their albums!

Sonata Arctica have been around for a while, and if you know anything about power metal, you know whether or not you're into them. What made this show amazing were openers Powerglove and Mutiny Within. Powerglove play metal renditions of video game theme music, which could get gimmicky and boring if they weren't skilled, relentlessly enthusiastic, and just plain fun to watch. They know how to get a crowd going. Mutiny Within continued, putting on one of the best sets I've ever seen by any band, ever.Their music blends soaring vocals with death-growls, and amazing technical skill with catchy riffs and choruses. They were on fire, and as relative newcomers to the scene managed to get the entire crowd amped up.

This was my first time seeing Sonata Arctica. I wasn't really that familiar with them, but I had heard a few songs like "Don't Say a Word" and "Wildfire". These guys are stellar musicians. The songs they write have a very sing-along sensibility, the lead breaks are technical and melodic, and the rhythm section rivals any power metal or melodic metal band out there. The singer is engaging between songs, jokes around a lot and definitely adds some enlightening commentary to the overall show. The sound at the House of Blues is very crisp and balanced. You can hear lead guitars cutting through the pounding bass and kick drum, and the vocals are pristine sounding. Highly recommend this band for a great performance and some great songs that will appeal to music lovers of any metal genre.

The show was fantastic, with Sonata Arctica really outdoing every other live performance of theirs that I'd heard. (Which were only recordings) Still, the sound quality in the venue was as good as on any of their albums, the band members were entertaining, and the music rocked.

In a word, Sonata Arctica was fantastic. The crowd's reception of the opening bands were energetic and the bands themselves really fired everyone up; I particularly think that Mutiny Within has the potential to really make an imprint on modern metal. Sonata themselves provided a very intimate experience, with their trademark banter between songs. The band has a chemistry between its members that I have yet to see matched; almost nothing can beat Henrik chasing Tony around stage with his keytar. The members' familiarity pours into the overall experience, and the band members regularly interact with the audience and keep everyone interested from start to finish. That said, Tony is like a fountain of cool, teasing everyone including himself and providing most of the direct communication with the crowd. The setlist was quite excellent, as well; no album was excluded from the lineup, the opening and closing songs are clear-cut fan favourites, and even the slowest songs had a lot of energy in them. This is a band that I will not hesitate to see again the next time they are in Chicago.

Saw them last September opening for DragonForce. They were amazing then and even more so last night. Vocals, keyboard, lead guitar and drums all outstanding. (Just realized I have nothing to say about the bass ... alas, disrespect = being a bass player in a metal band.)

As always expected, an excellent show. A great metal sound with nonstop entertainment.

Pretty good concert and pretty good venue for this kind of concert...I wished that Sonata Arctica would play more ballad songs, that was my only concern...

This was my second time seeing Sonata Arctica, and once again they did not disappoint. Tony has such a great onstage personality and such charisma, that you can't help but have a good time. It's quite obvious that these guys truly enjoy what they do. They give 110% and make it look easy and fun. HIGHLY recommended live show.

From the moment the show started till it closed, I was amazed at how good it was. Every band (Forever's Edge, Powerglove, Mutiny Within, & Sonata Arctica) played exceptionally well and you must go and see them live.

From the moment the show started till it closed, I was amazed at how good it was. Every band (Forever's Edge, Powerglove, Mutiny Within, & Sonata Arctica) played exceptionally well and you must go and see them live.

From the moment the show started till it closed, I was amazed at how good it was. Every band (Forever's Edge, Powerglove, Mutiny Within, & Sonata Arctica) played exceptionally well and you must go and see them live.

From the moment the show started till it closed, I was amazed at how good it was. Every band (Forever's Edge, Powerglove, Mutiny Within, & Sonata Arctica) played exceptionally well and you must go and see them live.

Sonata Arctica was awesome. Would go again. Opening bands are always bad though.

I'd never heard of Sonata Arctica until I saw they were supporting Dragonforce here in the US last fall. As I had tickets I decided I better do some homework and bought Unia and Ecliptica. I was hooked and proceeded to buy all their other albums. The set with Dragonforce was too short for my liking so I was thrilled to find they were headlining here in Philly. I was not disappointed in the least! The set was dynamic and extremely entertaining. There was something from every album and Tony's rapport with the audience was something else. Somehow European bands seem to conjure up a completely different atmosphere from their American counterparts, (in my opinion anyway). All the band members are extremely talented and seem to work really well together and can hold the audience's attention. I'm hoping they will come this way again - whenever that is I for one will be there! (I was so keen to see them I actually bought the first and second tickets when they went on sale!!)

Even though it was Sonata Arctica's show, I went simply to see Mutiny Within (since they are some good 'ol Jersey boys like me). I did not expect to be blown away by the FUN that Powerglove has on stage, tossing inflatable weapons and starbursts candies into the crowd! Mutiny Within took the stage and rocked! The crowd was definitely into them and I was fortunate enough to meet and hangout with them at their merch booth afterwards. THen I relaxed upstairs in the 21 only section to have a sit and enjoyed the old heads that are Sonata Arctica, reminiscing on how much this concert literally set the tone for an amazing weekend!

We saw them in Cleveland. I haven't been to a concert like this I don't think EVER. The atmosphere was charged with all the energy from this incredible band. What performers!! The mix of music and the balance between new and older songs was just perfect. A small venue, and they captured the audience with the first notes they played. Absolutely unforgettable. As awesome as this band is when recorded, I have to say they are infinitely better live.

I have been a Sonata Arctica Fan for many years and was super excited when they came to town. Although I kinda felt bad for them because they are so used to playing in giant stadiums in Europe and they were just on a side stage in the US I thought they played an AMAZING show! I would definitely recommend them to anyone who likes hard rock/ metal and is open to new music! Overall 5/5 stars Amazing show guys!

Sonata Arctica has one of the best live shows you'll ever see! They were simply amazing live as always, even on the smaller bar stage. Great to be up close like that too. They were so good that going upstairs to see Dethklok afterward was a disappointment.

the concert was good, the music was good, everything was good

The concert passed up all my expectations. I went into the concert thinking they would play some of the more popular songs, from albums except "The Days of Greys" Since the album just came out. I also went into the concert thinking they wouldnt play my favorite song, "White Pearl, Black Oceans" because it was to long. But they did, played several songs from "The Days of Greys" and "White Pearl, Black Oceans" and there was plenty of humorous moments as well. Thank you Sonata Arctica! Please come around Milwaukee again soon!

The band was truly epic. There were people there who have never herd of the band before, and by the third song were chearing and head banging their hearts out. Tony Kakko has the best stage personality I have ever seen. Personally can not wate for them Sonata Arctica to come back to Milwaukee.

Sonata Arctica put on a great show. They chose music ranging from very old to very new, and their sound and stage presence were incredible. I'm going to see them again next chance I get!

it was soooo great to have a chance to be soooo close to the performers... they are AWESOME group... i wish they can come more often :))))

This was the first time I'd actually been able to catch them in a full show -- previously there was always something that got in the way, or they were in as an opening act. They lived up to everything I expected though, with flawless instrumentals, great crowd interaction, and enough throwbacks to the old familiar tunes to keep even those who aren't familiar with the new album (like myself) plenty entertained. Most excellent.

This band was simply fantastic in every facet possible. Not only did they play immaculately, but they interacted with the crowd and provided a great time for all who were there. unfortunately, there were only about 100 people there and I doubt this band will ever come back to Pittsburgh because of the abysmal showing.

I have to give these guys credit. obviously the ticket sales wernt as high as expected for this show, but Sonata played their hearts out. It was AMAZING. The venue was small.. but had a neat atmosphere.

I've been listening to Sonata Arctica for a few years now, but had never seen these guys live before. While I'm not surprised that Tony and company have been given the opportunity to tour the states, I'm amazed that Pittsburgh was a stop on this tour. I'd see these guys again any time they come nearby. Tony is quite the showman, and the band is flawless.

Show was AMAZINGLY AMAZING. Great music, great vibe, great band! Really know how to handle a music show and the crowd, giving love and getting it back from the fans.