In Flames, Starland Ballroom, Sayreville NJ, September 8, 2022

Supported by Vended, Orbit Culture, Fit For An Autopsy

Anders Fridén was relaxed and full of energy as he and In Flames took the stage at the Starland Ballroom in Sayreville NJ, on Thursday, September 8. Anders took us through a tour of In Flames metal history, with the band playing songs from several of their earlier albums (1994’s Lunar Strain, 1996’s The Jester Race, 1997’s Whoracle, and 1999’s Colony). To be honest, as somewhat of a newbie, I think I was the only one who couldn’t sing along with those songs. (Working my way backwards through their catalog, I’m only up to A Sense of Purpose, with a detour to Clayman).

In Flames also played their two most recent releases, with Anders promising a new album is the on the way—can’t wait for that!

This show was in sharp contrast to the Rammstein show we saw the week before. Rammstein’s arena show was a fantastic display of the band’s particular kind of artistry, but its grand scale prevented any sense of connection with the band.

Not so on Thursday. Anders’ easy banter, the mix of old and new songs, the fans’ over-the-top enthusiasm, and the intimate size of the venue, made for an exhilarating night. Well warmed up by the supporting bands, fans immediately got down to moshing and crowd-surfing, and the turned-up-high bass made sure every molecule in the room was bouncing.

In Flames was supported by Vended, Orbit Culture, and Fit For An Autopsy, all new to me—but not to the crowd—and I will be checking out their music further, especially since our pub waitperson the following night told us he was a big fan of Vended.

Here are a few of my pictures, but my daughter, photographer Kristin Michel, has far better ones; visit her Facebook page.