Katatonia has always been a band that brings their music to fans, not just through the big-city venues, but also by choosing smaller, lesser-known locations, which creates a rare opportunity for audiences who might not otherwise get the chance to see them live. These smaller venues foster a more intimate connection between the band and fans, especially for those who, like me, have been following them for over 20 years. Their recent show at the Roadmender in Northampton was no exception.
Opening for Katatonia was Cobra the Impaler, a band I was already fond of thanks to their impressive album from earlier this year. But seeing them live took it to another level. Their sound is multidimensional and defies easy categorisation, blending progressive, sludge and melodic elements with a heaviness that hits hard yet still invites the audience to sing along.