Vola – Friend Of A Phantom Tour 22/11/24

A last-minute venue change to Scala couldn’t deter VOLA and Charlotte Wessels from delivering an unforgettable evening of progressive music in London. Fans packed the intimate space, eager to witness a night of stunning musicianship and emotional performances from two of the most exciting names in modern progressive metal and symphonic rock.

Charlotte Wessels opened the evening with a captivating solo set that showcased her talent as a vocalist and songwriter. Starting with Chasing Sunsets and Dopamine, she immediately drew the crowd in with her haunting melodies and emotive delivery. Songs like Ode to the West Wind and The Crying Room revealed a poetic depth that resonated deeply, while Soft Revolution became an anthem of defiance and hope. Closing with The Exorcism, Wessels left the stage to thunderous applause, having set the tone for the night with her dynamic and heartfelt performance.

VOLA followed with a meticulously crafted set that demonstrated their mastery of blending heavy, technical riffs with lush, atmospheric layers. They opened with I Don’t Know How We Got Here, immersing the audience in their distinctive sound. Tracks like Stone Leader Falling Down and These Black Claws brought intense energy, while Glass Mannequin and Alien Shivers offered a more introspective counterbalance.

One of the night’s most memorable moments came when Charlotte Wessels returned to the stage to join VOLA for a powerful duet on Cannibal. The chemistry between Wessels and frontman Asger Mygind elevated the song to new heights, earning one of the loudest reactions from the audience. It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated the collaborative spirit and emotional depth of the evening.

As the set continued, Head Mounted Sideways and 24 Light-Years emerged as highlights, showcasing VOLA’s ability to marry complexity with accessibility. The encore featured Stray the Skies, a triumphant closer that left the audience buzzing as the final notes faded.

This night was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of artistry and connection. Charlotte Wessels delivered a performance that balanced vulnerability with power, while VOLA demonstrated why they are at the forefront of the progressive metal scene. Despite the logistical challenges of the venue change, both acts created an experience that felt intimate and monumental.

For fans of progressive music, this was an evening that underscored the genre’s ability to evolve while staying rooted in emotional storytelling and technical excellence. VOLA and Charlotte Wessels didn’t just perform—they created a moment that will linger in the minds of those lucky enough to attend.