Violent Magic Orchestra

Violent Magic Orchestra made their Roadburn debut in 2018 and in the intervening years have only become more deranged with their approach to sonic obliteration. If you caught them then, or in the years since, you’ll know that this band is the embodiment of indescribable – mere words do not do justice to what these maniacs create. 

You’ll be hard pressed to find a coherent biography of the band anywhere online, just as you’d struggle to find a realistic overview of how they approach their work. It’s definitely one of those situations where perhaps it’s simply best not to ask, just strap in and commit yourself to joining the ride – wherever it may take you. Nonetheless, in the interests of doing our best to advise you on what’s coming your way in April, let’s try…

Violent Magic Orchestra – also known as VMO, presumably because the forming sentences becomes a little trickier after one of their shows – are an unholy mash up of black metal and techno. Dazed magazine suggests you think along the lines of a “blend of 100 gecs and Cradle of Filth”. But if you’re thinking that you’ll find a black metal band with an electronic interlude here and there, or the inverse – a techno ensemble with a flourish of tremolo picking for good measure, then you’re way off base. VMO jump – boots first – into both ends of the musical spectrum simultaneously, hauling them closer together in a synapse-testing combination through sheer will alone. 

The band comments:

“VMO aka Violent Magic Orchestra are honored to be invited back to Roadburn again ⚡️⚡️ VMO promises that rainbows will appear and angels and dragons will descend from the chemical reaction of the most terrifying visuals, light, smoke, dancing, moshing, and headbanging.”

We can’t argue with that. Their live show will be punishing; don’t say we haven’t warned you. If you’re light sensitive, then consider yourself to be VMO-sensitive too. If you’re of a delicate disposition, then it might be better to sit this one out. It’s not unheard of for the band to end up hospitalising themselves, nevermind the audience members. We suggest you ease yourself in with a blast through their latest album DEATH RAVE; you can comfort yourself with a good long lie down in a dark room afterwards.

– Becky Laverty