DARK MOFO 2023

words and photos: Nathan Goldsworthy @odin.imaging

**Review**

Dark Mofo 2023 - A decade of darkness

Year after year, the irresistible allure of Dark Mofo draws us to this chilly island for its extraordinary festival. offensive, shocking, and miraculously beautiful—Dark Mofo encompasses all of these elements and more. It is an experience that defies expectations, leaving an indelible mark on those who dare to venture into its realm.

This year, Dark Mofo proudly celebrates a decade of embracing darkness, pushing boundaries, and captivating audiences with its unique blend of art, music, immersive experiences and debortuary. Of course we couldn’t resist the journey down to our home away from home.

Photo Credit: Dark Mofo/Darklab media 2022
Image Courtesy Dark Mofo, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

Hymns To The Dead @ Odeon Theatre 14th of June

The highly anticipated and exclusive Hymns for the Dead remains one of the biggest highlights for me at Dark Mofo. Every year, this extraordinary event introduces me to new bands that leave me utterly blown away.

This year's Slaughter for the Ears showcased a diverse lineup of bands from around the globe. Opening the night was Haunter, a Texas-based group known for their relentless energy and powerful performances. Despite encountering initial technical difficulties that led to a muddy sound in the front, Haunter's set progressively improved, reaching a state of sonic perfection by the fourth track. Their brand of pure death metal, infused with elements of progressive blackened death metal, captivated the audience with its claustrophobic atmosphere, off-kilter riffs, and grating chords. Unfortunately, the poor mix posed a challenge, making it difficult to fully appreciate the intricacies of Bradley Tiffin's guitar work.

However, amidst the minor setbacks, the electrifying energy and the raw intensity of Haunter's performance set the ideal tone for the rest of the evening. It served as a powerful precursor to the musical journey that lay ahead, leaving the audience eager for what was to come.

Next up was Zuriaake ,The figures standing on stage exuded an otherworldly aura, captivating everyone in their presence. It's regrettable that this was their sole performance in Australia, as witnessing their unique blend of black metal and Chinese folk was an experience beyond words. Zuriaake's debut album is a sublime fusion of tradition and haunting melodies, where the bleak and empty style of black metal intertwines with traditional instrumentation and a profound connection to natural themes.

While China may not have yet established a distinct sound within the black metal sphere, Zuriaake's 2007 masterpiece, "Afterimage of Autumn," sets a remarkable precedent. Their performance embraced Chinese gothic aesthetics, with mic stands adorned with winding vines and cloth lanterns swinging in lieu of a smoke machine. They proudly showcased their heritage, conjuring images of a temple parade. The band's singer, Bloodfire, screeched lyrics in Mandarin, which conveyed ties to mythology and a tradition of ghost stories for native speakers, while offering a rich texture of distortion to a Western audience. The throbbing bass and rhythm guitars formed a counterbalance to Bloodfire's vocals, enveloping the audience in a haunting and captivating sonic tapestry.

Bloodfire's stage presence was elevated by the use of carved wooden daggers, pottery wine jars, and other rustic props, creating a vivid atmosphere of offerings to mountain gods and the conjuring of restless spirits and ancient curses through their lyrics. The performance was a mesmerizing display of Zuriaake's commitment to their craft and their ability to transport the audience to an ethereal realm.

As the last echoes of Zuriaake's music faded away, the audience was left with a profound sense of awe and reverence. The performance had transcended mere entertainment, becoming a spiritual journey that resonated deeply within the hearts of those present. Zuriaake's captivating fusion of black metal and Chinese folk left an enduring imprint, forever etched in the memories of those fortunate enough to bear witness to their singular performance at Dark Mofo.

Dark Mofo continues to redefine boundaries by curating exceptional bands from around the world, and the inclusion of Dødheimsgard exemplifies this commitment to musical exploration. Dødheimsgard's performance was a revelation, leaving an indelible impression on all who witnessed it. Led by the mesmerizing frontman Vicotnik, the band seamlessly blended elements of extreme metal with unexpected jazz interludes, creating a genre-defying sonic experience that defied categorization.

Vicotnik's stage presence was nothing short of captivating, exuding an intoxicating mix of charisma and madness. With his commanding presence and boundless energy, he commanded the audience's attention from the first note to the last. The rest of the band members were equally adept, delivering a relentless assault of intricate and powerful music. Dødheimsgard's performance was a sonic journey, taking the audience on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, from frenzied aggression to hauntingly atmospheric passages.

The stage itself became a playground for the band's visual theatrics. Amidst a backdrop of vibrant (literal) splashes of colour and way too many mic stands, Dødheimsgard created a visual spectacle that mirrored the audaciousness of their music. It was a feast for the senses, as the band unleashed their creativity in every aspect of their performance.

As the final notes reverberated through the venue, the crowd erupted in applause and cheers, acknowledging the brilliance they had just witnessed. The performance was not just a mere concert; it was a transformative experience that left a lasting impact on the attendees. The energy in the room was electric, a collective realization that they had witnessed something truly extraordinary.

Dark Mofo's commitment to pushing boundaries and showcasing exceptional talent was resoundingly affirmed by Dødheimsgard's performance. As the audience dispersed into the winter night, they carried with them the memories of a night that transcended the confines of traditional music genres. It was a night of musical exploration, where Dødheimsgard stood at the forefront, fearlessly pushing the boundaries of extreme metal and leaving an indelible mark on the souls of all who were fortunate enough to be present.

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NYX @ odeon theatre 15th of June

The world premiere of NYX's electronic drone choir at Dark Mofo left me spellbound, as their groundbreaking exploration of the collective voice as an instrument pushed the boundaries of artistic innovation. Led by visionary choir leader Sian O'Gorman, NYX embarked on an extraordinary sonic journey, deftly combining organic and synthetic modulation to create an immersive and mesmerizing experience.

The performance began with Sian O'Gorman's enchanting composition, immediately captivating the audience and setting the stage for what was to come. The ethereal soundscape transported me to an otherworldly realm, where traditional musical constraints faded away. NYX's seamless blending of organic and synthetic sounds created a sonic tapestry that was both captivating and haunting.

One of the most striking aspects of the performance was the inventive use of distorted recordings of nature. NYX skillfully manipulated these sounds, adding layers of depth and intrigue to the already mesmerizing music. The fusion of organic and synthetic elements created a sonic landscape that was both familiar and mysterious, evoking a sense of awe and wonder.

The visual impact of NYX's metallic costumes was equally remarkable. Standing on stage, bathed in dramatic lighting, the choir members donned breathtaking attire that reflected the surrounding hues and tones. These stunning costumes not only complemented the futuristic soundscape but also enhanced the overall atmosphere, immersing me in a sensory experience that was truly captivating.

Throughout the performance, NYX showcased their mastery over the entire spectrum of the collective voice. The harmonies resonated with power and precision, interweaving with the electronic drones to form a symphony that reverberated through the venue. Each member's contribution added a unique layer to the composition, highlighting both the collective strength and individual artistry within the group.

I never look too deep into the lineup for Dark Mofo prior to the festival as I have learnt to trust the curation (and that’s all part of the fun), and NYX's world premiere was a highlight that took me by delightful surprise.

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Deafheaven @ Odeon Theatre 15th of June

The Odeon Theatre buzzed with an electrifying atmosphere, teeming with a crowd that defied its own limits. Once settled in their spots, movement became nearly impossible. The air crackled with anticipation, as if the venue held secrets yearning to be revealed. Yet, despite the setlist being a known entity, there was an air of mystery, an invitation for collective imaginations to soar freely.

As the lights dimmed, a delicate piano melody enveloped the space, casting a spell of blissful serenity. With elegant simplicity, the band took the stage, exchanging waves with the audience before launching into the beloved opening riff of 'Dream House.' The energy surged, not in the usual chaotic mosh pit manner, but as a spiritual wave, voices cheering, fists and horns raised, bodies swaying like the undulating ocean.

Vocalist George Clarke emerged as a predator, prowling the stage with untamed intensity. In this live setting, he reigned as the alpha lion, conducting the charge of a willing crowd. Even in his stillness, his screams into the stand-bound microphone reverberated with an unparalleled force, leaving the onlookers awe-struck.

As the other members retreated, guitarists Kerry McCoy and Shiv Mehra remained, weaving a mesmerizing tapestry of sound with 'Irresistible.' Their instrumental prowess enraptured both the audience and themselves, evoking laughter and camaraderie.

Then came the title track, 'Sunbather,' erupting with furious intensity. The crowd's response soared, culminating in a frenzy of bodies surfing and a whirlwind of moshing. It was a fitting tribute to the iconic album, released a decade ago. George Clarke, a shape-shifter of expression, channeled the spirit of Ian Curtis, his movements eccentric and magnetic. Other band members, caught in the spell, joined the dance, creating moments of visual poetry. Like a brief intermission, the quintet vanished, leaving behind the haunting echoes of 'Please Remember.' But the return of the guitarists signaled the start of a captivating journey with 'Vertigo.' One by one, the band members embraced the audacious call of the song, until George, the final arrival, embodied a whirlwind of emotions—a schizophrenic fusion of chilling screams and seductive rhythm. 'Vertigo' aptly described the dizzying and bedazzling voyage that unfolded.

After the intermission of 'Windows,' the grand climax arrived with 'The Pecan Tree.' The swelling waves of the ocean reached a crescendo, not as a menacing threat, but as a breathtaking spectacle. The storm subsided, unveiling a post-rock serenity. Mr. Clarke embraced his devoted audience, immersing himself in their adoration. Microphone shared, bodies entwined, he unleashed final screams, while drumbeats resounded and guitars strummed their concluding notes.

No encore followed, despite the clamoring demand. Yet, in this moment, we reveled in the newfound euphoria, the transcendence attained through Deafheaven's blackgaze brilliance. It was an experience that defied the ordinary, etching a singular imprint on our memories.

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DROWNING HORSE + Extortion + IRONHAWK @ Altar 16th of June

Dark Mofo 2023 brought an electrifying dose of heaviness and chaos with Australia's very own Drowning Horse, Extortion, and Ironhawk. This year's lineup was a powerhouse of sludge metal, blackened doom, hardcore, and raw punk rock, leaving the audience in awe.

Ironhawk took the stage with their punky Motorhead/Venom inspired black metal. Their performance was a relentless onslaught of high-energy music that left the crowd mesmerized. The raw intensity of their sound was evident, and fans of the genre were undoubtedly satisfied.

Extortion, on the other hand, unleashed a torrential storm of punk rock. With what felt like 40 songs packed into their set, their pedal-to-the-metal performance left the audience exhilarated. The crowd went bananas, and the energy in the venue was off the charts (always fun to be in the middle of the mosh pit with 2 cameras). It was a punk rock extravaganza that left a lasting impression

Drowning Horse provided a stark change of pace with their sludgy doom goodness. While other bands packed their sets with numerous songs, Drowning Horse opted for a more deliberate approach, delivering a few powerful compositions. The sheer volume of their performance had me constantly checking if my hearing protection was still intact. The smoke machine worked overtime, engulfing the venue and adding to the suffocating feeling that perfectly matched the music's intensity.

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King Woman @ Odeon Theatre 18th of June

King Woman, led by the enigmatic Kris Esfandiari, delivered a concert experience that transcended the boundaries of mere entertainment. From the very moment they stepped onto the stage, it was evident that this was not an ordinary performance. King Woman embraced the crowd with open arms, immersing themselves fully in the collective energy of the audience, creating an intimate and profound connection.

The stage was bathed in midnight blue as Kris Esfandiari emerged from the shadows. Flanked by her four-piece band under soft, ethereal lighting, the atmosphere was instantly charged with anticipation. But as the first notes of "Celestial Blues" filled the air, a hushed reverence descended upon the venue. Guitars wailed, drums thundered, and Esfandiari stood with her arms outspread, a powerful figure observing the multitude of mesmerized faces gazing up at her.

As King Woman delved into their setlist, seamlessly transitioning from the captivatingly raw "Utopia" to other tracks from both albums, the intensity of the evening only heightened. Esfandiari. Her voice, ethereal and otherworldly, rose from the depths of her being, permeating the very souls of those in attendance.

It was the soul-stirring "Burn" that caused an implosion of emotions within the crowd. The crowd shouting out their declaration of love, and even seeing a proposal of marriage in the crowd. It was a moment of pure connection, where artist and audience merged in a powerful expression of human vulnerability.

Amidst the musical brilliance, King Woman's genuine appreciation for their audience was evident throughout the night. Kris Esfandiari took every chance she could to get into the crowd, bringing everyone even closer. To finish off, we were treated to an encore with a cover of the fabulous I Wanna Be Adored (The Stone Roses).

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Health @ Odeon Theatre 18th of June

Health's final show in Australia at Dark Mofo Tasmania was an electrifying display of their unique musical prowess. As the band took the stage, it was evident that they were about to deliver an unforgettable performance. Jake Duzsik's vocals soared through the air, perfectly contrasting the mesmerizing instrumentals. In a live setting, their dynamic chemistry was even more pronounced, creating an atmosphere that was both captivating and otherworldly. The band's ability to transport the audience into their own realm was astonishing, making it hard to even blink as you were completely consumed by their presence.

The energy in the crowd was palpable as most attendees couldn't help but dance along to the infectious beats. However, what set Health apart was their knack for creating a space where everyone could fully immerse themselves. It was as if they had crafted a sonic sanctuary, allowing concert-goers to shed their inhibitions and be completely carefree. The band's mesmerizing performance forged an instant connection between the audience and their music, resulting in an experience that was nothing short of transcendental.

Health's whirlwind tour may have come to an end, but the memories of this extraordinary show will linger on, reminding us of the power of music to transport and transform.

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Trentemøller @ MAC2 18th of June

Anders Trentemøller and his band delivered an immersive and cathartic performance at the Dark Mofo Festival's musical finale in the MAC 02 hall, and still managed to create an intimate atmosphere and heating up the vast cold hall. Trentemøller showcased both his dream pop/shoegaze era with vocals and his earlier downtempo, trip hop, minimal, glitch, and darkwave era, satisfying the appreciative audience hungry for the full band lineup.

The gig showcased the two faces of Trentemøller's artistry with equal force, encompassing his later dream pop/shoegaze era with vocals and his earlier downtempo, trip hop, minimal, glitch, and darkwave era. Throughout the performance, the setlist embraced a collection of his greatest hits, providing a welcome treat for the Australian audience, who had eagerly awaited the full band lineup. From the haunting and mesmerizing ethereal pop of "No More Kissing In The Rain" to the distant and atmospheric dream pop qualities of "In The Gloaming," and the spine-tingling shoegaze collaboration with The Raveonettes on "Cops On Our Tail," the concert offered a diverse range of musical experiences.

The band's dynamic fusion of synths, bass, guitars, drums, and vocals created a magnificent sonic earthquake, while Trentemøller's understated yet magnetic stage presence and effortless coolness captivated the audience. The genuine connection and mutual appreciation between the artist and the crowd elevated the overall experience, leaving indie kids and ravers enchanted and slightly discombobulated by the sheer force of the performance. This explosive finale marked the end of the festival's weekend and served as a testament to Leigh Carmichael and his team's remarkable contribution to music and the community over the past decade.