„Sounds Of A Playground Fading“ is the latest In Flames album, and it is about, as Peter Iwers had told me right before concert in Zagreb, reflection of development and aging of the band which is present for almost two decades.

But it seemes how In Flames are just like good wine, more older –that better, and same thing was in Boogaloo where atmosfere definitelly was better than in sold out Tvornica in 2009-

It isn’t nice to compare this concert to the previous one in general, because every concert of any band is a new unique experience, but I still must mention how one thing has stayed the same – support band.

Noctiferia has warmed up quiet a lot of people, but I have unfortunely missed their show, but, according to the audience reaction before the very beginning of the In Flames set, Slovenians have done an amazing job.

With about five minutes later than announced, Anders, Bjorn, Peter, Niclas and Daniel enter the stage followed by constant shouts „In Flames, In Flames, In Flames!“ from the audience. They start with „Sounds Of A Playground Fading“. Interesting thig was that the audience has accepted songs from the new album equally well as the older ones, so they have heavily singed along on „Diliver Us“.
After loud interpretation of „Trigger“, Anders has concluded how Zagreb audience is the best on this tour, mentioning how Swedes never lie. I believe him, the atmosphere and energy that could be felt in the air during the whole concert, mixed with usual smokey air is really rare for Boogaloo. On concerts this size can be really good, but when you get a chance to see every hand in the air and loud singing which on the moments unables you to hear Anders’ vocal, then you realize that there must be some special chemistry between the band and local fans.

They also remembered to say happy birthday to Noctiferia member, and, as Anders wished, he heard a „Happy Birthday“ song in Croatian sung by the whole audience.

They have ten studio albums behind, but combination of „Inspid 2000“, „Swim“, „Alias“, „The Quiet Place“, „Whee The Dead Ship Dwell“ and „Fear Is The Weekness“ has definitelly satisfied old and new fans and I think that every person who was present shouldn’t complain about anything, nor setlist, nor performance nor atmosphere or sound.

Band was giving compliments all the time, so we found out how they want to remember this concert forever after on next song whole venue started to jump, hands were in the air, they sung along with the band, already hot atmosphere has now culminated.

Flames have ended hour and half long set with „Take This Life“ of „Come Clarity“ album and proved how sounds of their playground definitelly aren’t fading, they are louder and louder every time.

It was a real pleasure to watch them. Them, and the audience. Bravo!

Report: Maja Trstenjak (maja@venia-mag.net)
Photo: Slavica Rudec