Belphegor (The Disputer for those interested in demonology) took the stage shortly after Suicidal Angels as second and last support band for Kataklysm this cold January evening.

“This is metal, not a fucking gay meeting. I wanna hear you scream!”
- Helmuth Lehner (vocals/guitar)

Blood drenched and with a horned animal cranium adorning the drums, Belphegor (led by Helmuth Lehner) called for attention from the crowd before them; a crowd which had grown considerably since the initial band had held the stage.
Aside from the swearing and constant shouting of obscenities (something Lehner made sure the audience was part of), it felt as a positive bandleader who was more than happy to be back in our country. At several times he mentioned how happy Belphegor were to be back, and how happy he was to see us all. It might have clashed a bit with the image of the band, but certainly worked its magic on the crowd which showed its appreciation by turning Belphegor’s concert into one of the wildest ones seen in a long time.

As mentioned, Lehner made a good impression on stage, as well as bassist Serpenth who was truly punishing his neck over on his side of the stage. Belphegor’s second guitarist, Murloch, made a more anonymous impression however, as he was mostly standing still in the shadows in the back of the stage, and Belphegor’s drummer was almost impossible to see due to poor lighting.
Nevertheless, the show felt strong and well-performed, and reminded me of why I had been impressed with their live skills first time I saw them (same place, the year before).

Setlist:

Bleeding Salvation
Stigma Diabolicum
Belphegor – Hell’s Ambassador
Reichswehr In Blood
Veneratio Diaboli – I Am Sin
Lucifer Incestus
Justine: Soaked In Blood
Bondage Goat Zombie