Laibach - Utrecht 2006

The first part of the show most of the songs from Volk were played. Volk is a CD filled with mostly national anthems or very famous songs from different countries. All of there are mixed up adapted by Laibach. For example, you may still hear the chorus from ‘God save our Queen’, but most parts are darker and experimental with a deep low voice, and sober Guitars. Songs from all over the world were picked. All of the names of the songs are the countries, Like Anglia, España, Rossiya, Yisrã’el and off course Slovania. Some of the songs are about wars, others about history. During Yisrã’el, the big screens in the back were showing both the Israeli and the Palestine flag. During this, vocals chanted: ‘my country, my country, my land’. Most people in the venue fell silent during this song, and afterwards were all yapping to each other about the ongoing conflict between these nations. After about one hour the band shortly left the stage. One roadie came on stage to add 2 simple drum kits to the backline. The band returned and this time the female singer had gone, but two other girls joined on stage. They were both drumming and singing along. When the music started the crowd started cheering, these were the first tunes of Tanz mit Laibach. Followed by about half an hour of very danceable tunes and a smooth performance where all the visitors could shake away their emotion from the first part of the show. After more then 1,5 hours, it was time to end the show. This happens with all the performers of stage clapping along to the ‘Laibach-medley’ whilst saying goodbye to their fans.



Performance
During the other songs, Laibach had created a visual experience with the national colours of the nation, their typical sounds. Everywhere Laibach had incorporated their logo. The first part there was one women of stage with ‘the men’ she was dressed in traditional clothes, from what I could see. Eber was wearing black. Al hat and turbans that the band was wearing had a Laibach pin on it. The girls that came back for the second part of the show were wearing matching black shirts with feathers on the shoulders. During most of the show the band was placed at its own little island. Except for the singer, nobody was really moving much. Because of the big screens in the back, there was plenty to see for the audience. Most of the audience picked up the energy of the band, and decided to move to the music as well. Having their merchandise sold in the hall way, a lot of people were wearing Laibach shirts already. The Lights added a small extra to the show, covering the band members with a spherical veil. During the second part of the show stroboscopes were used. The show ended with a Laibach-Medley, having the credits running up and down the screens in the back. This unfortunately also meant the end of tonight’s show. The show was amazing, and if you have a chance you should go and watch. Experience Volk for yourself!

Rating
Music: 8
Sound: 9
Performance: 9
Lights: 8