Concert Review: Mortiis at Subzero, Prague: A Dark Sonic Odyssey

Mortiis is an enigmatic figure whose career has spanned multiple musical landscapes, from the frosty Norwegian black metal scene to the realms of dark ambient, industrial and electronic music. Known for his distinct persona, marked by his eerie, otherworldly mask and gothic aesthetic, Mortiis has never been one to conform to genre expectations.

His early work as a founding member of the iconic black metal band Emperor laid the groundwork for his later, groundbreaking solo career, which began with the haunting atmospheres of his Era I and evolved into the ethereal, synth-heavy landscapes that define his modern sound. And it is precisely to the origins of Era I that Mortiis wanted to return, deciding to perform the whole work in its full length.

Subzero, with its dim lighting, exposed brick, and industrial aesthetic, was the perfect venue to host such a unique artist. The small, intimate space created an atmosphere of closeness that encouraged fans to engage more deeply with the performance. It was clear from the start that this wasn't going to be just another gig – it was a pilgrimage for those who had followed Mortiis' evolution from his early days in black metal to his groundbreaking work in dark ambient and industrial.

As Mortiis took to the stage, he was flanked by an array of synthesizers, electronic drum pads and the dark, fog-filled atmosphere that has become synonymous with his live performances. The set began with the ghostly drone of "Født til å Herske", an early track from the Era I period. The deep, cavernous sounds resonated through the room, thick and foreboding, immediately pulling the audience into the world Mortiis has spent years crafting.

Throughout the night, his performance was anchored in the rich and evocative textures that Era I is known for. The simplicity of his setup allowed the music to breathe, its sparse synths and ominous droning baselines establishing a sense of deep, ritualistic energy. Mortiis moved between different synthesizers, including analog pieces that offered a warm, organic quality to the sound, and digital devices that provided precision and clarity to his more atmospheric compositions.

The industrial percussion elements from Era I were present throughout, with Mortiis utilizing drum pads and triggers to layer heavy, mechanical beats beneath the ethereal melodies. These moments of rhythmic intensity were contrasted with long, drawn-out drones and pads that created an almost trance-like atmosphere.

The crowd, a blend of die-hard Mortiis fans and curious newcomers, was immediately drawn into the ominous world that Mortiis has spent over two decades crafting. The venue's size allowed for a certain energy to circulate, enveloping the audience in the hypnotic and sometimes jarring soundscapes that only Mortiis can create.

Mortiis has an uncanny ability to invoke a wide range of feelings through his music – from haunting sorrow to violent rage and everything in between. There was an overwhelming sense of isolation throughout the performance, as if Mortiis was guiding the audience through a labyrinth of his own psyche. This wasn't just a concert; it was a shared experience, a cathartic release for both Mortiis and the fans.

Mortiis' role in the evolution of dark ambient and industrial music cannot be overstated. At a time when ambient music was often considered too abstract or inaccessible, Mortiis found a way to bring the genre into a more tangible, emotionally engaging space. His work is a bridge between the raw energy of black metal and the hauntingly immersive soundscapes of ambient music, creating a new niche for artists to explore.

Beyond his musical contributions, Mortiis' vision of what a live performance should be also set him apart. His commitment to crafting an experience – complete with ritualistic imagery and sound manipulation – transforms his live shows into immersive events. And in particular, his ability to build a world within his music, one that invites listeners into a realm of deep emotion, strange beauty and haunting isolation.

Mortiis' performance at Subzero in Prague was a rare and unforgettable experience. Through his music, his gear, and his presence, Mortiis reminded us of his significance in the history of music, especially within the realms of dark ambient, industrial and experimental music. His ability to craft immersive sonic worlds is unparalleled, and his live show reflected both his mastery of the craft and his continued evolution as an artist.

The crowd may have left the venue that night with their bodies tired and minds buzzing, but they also left with a deeper understanding of the transformative power of music – and the unique place Mortiis occupies in its ever-expanding history. For anyone lucky enough to witness it, the gig was not just a concert – it was an immersive journey into the heart of darkness itself.