Seasoned veterans and pioneers of gothic metal, Lacuna Coil returned to the UK with a monumental set as they gear up for the release of their latest offering, ‘Sleepless Empire‘.

Photos & words by Felix Bartlett | Oct 26, 2024

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It’s been five years since the Italian metal legends Lacuna Coil last descended upon London, and judging by tonight’s crowd, it’s clear their cult following remains as strong as ever. With a whopping 17-song setlist, it’s evident the band came well-prepared to deliver a set that would satisfy any longtime fan.

Kicking off the night though was an unexpected but intriguing choice: Blind Channel. Known for their high-energy antics and comedic lyrics the Finnish nu-metal crew felt like a more fitting pairing for the likes of Electric Callboy, but tonight they’ve found themselves sharing the stage with the Italian gothic metal icons. Despite the mismatch, this didn’t deter Blind Channel from pulling out all the stops to deliver a set packed full of surprises—covers over System of a Down‘s ‘B.Y.O.B’ and Backstreet Boys ‘Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)’, guitars in flight, and even a guest appearance from Best British Newcomer winner, RØRY for ‘DIE ANOTHER DAY’. Unfortunately, this wasn’t enough to win over the dedicated Italian fanbase. With the band taking an indefinite hiatus in 2024, it’s a shame they weren’t given a better send-off.

With a three-decade career, Lacuna Coil are no strangers to the live scene, and with that time the band have been able to meticulously craft and refine their setlist with tonight’s show bringing a solid 17-song performance that flows with grace, packs an unforgettable punch and also leaves room for emotional resonation for the fans to engage with. Balancing new and old material can be a challenge for many bands, but Lacuna Coil have done so masterfully, even working in a handful of tracks that won’t see the light of day until next years ‘Sleepless Empire‘ release that blended perfectly into the set and never felt out of place amongst some of their previously released tracks.

After a five-year absence from UK shores, it was a treat to see the band return with a stage production that reflects their growth, featuring screens projecting imagery and videos to accompany each song, adding a well-deserved flair to their presence. But make no mistake—updated visuals aside, the vocal interplay between Cristina Scabbia and Andrea Ferro remains the true heart of Lacuna Coil’s infectious sound. Throughout the set, the two shared an onstage chemistry, hitting and holding every note, making their live performance a must see. Still to this day, it’s evident why the band is so highly regarded by fans and critics alike.

The love and attention to detail in their production and live performances are what make Lacuna Coil such a remarkable experience to witness. The Italian outfit has crafted a sound shared by few, bringing a truly unique and captivating show. Tonight’s set hints at the band’s future direction, with new singles Hosting The Shadow, In The Meantime, and Never Dawn signalling a bold step forward. Judging by the fans’ reaction, anticipation is high for this new chapter. But the most stand out moments were reserved for their iconic anthems, including Nothing Stands In Our Way, Our Truth, Heaven’s A Lie, and their Depeche Mode cover of Enjoy The Silence, which had the entire Roundhouse audience screaming their hearts out.”

Those who witnessed seasoned veterans and pioneers of gothic metal, Lacuna Coil’s return to the United Kingdom in 2024 were treated to a monumental set and a pivotal moment in the bands career. With three decades under their belt they have proved that they still have much to offer as they gear up for the release of their latest album, ‘Sleepless Empire‘.

Lacuna Coil Setlist:

Blood, Tears, Dust

Reckless

Apocalypse

Trip the Darkness

Oxygen

Layers of Time

Our Truth

Entwined XX

Heaven’s a Lie XX

In The Mean Time

Hosting the Shadow

Never Dawn

Enjoy the Silence

(Depeche Mode cover)

Encore:

Aeon XX

Tight Rope XX

Swamped XX

Nothing Stands in Our Way