[Concert Review] Blind Channel & The Hu
The night opened with a surge of energy from Blind Channel, a Finnish rock band that perfectly captured what you imagine when thinking of high-energy, animated performances. From the first track, "Over My Dead Body," the band brought the crowd to life with their intense headbanging and dynamic stage presence. The guitarists stole the show with their relentless energy, while the vocalists worked the stage, interacting with the crowd in a way that felt both personal and electrifying.
They played a new song, possibly called Deadzone, and got everyone’s hands in the air, creating a powerful sense of unity in the room. The crowd erupted into a mosh pit, setting the stage perfectly for the next act. A surprise highlight was their rock rendition of Backstreet Boys’ "Everybody," which was pure fun and had the entire audience singing along. Blind Channel’s raw energy and animated performance left a lasting impression—it’s the kind of live rock show that reminds you why this genre is so beloved.
As the crowd settled, it was time for The Hu, the Mongolian rock band whose unique blend of traditional instruments and throat singing has made them a global phenomenon. The stage setup was striking, with multiple microphones and percussions displayed on various levels, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and awe.
For someone unfamiliar with their music, the first three songs were an unforgettable introduction. The combination of their unique instruments, throat singing, and rich vocals felt like stepping into a completely different world. Even though I was focused on taking photos, the experience was mesmerizing.
Song Highlights:
"Uchirtai Gurav": This track was a change of pace from the earlier, more rock-heavy songs, but it still retained their distinct style. Watching the crowd jump and dance to it from the back was wholesome and joyful.
"Segee": The intro, featuring intricate throat singing, was incredible. The intensity of their performance made it feel like the soundtrack to a battle scene. Their traditional stringed instruments, which I later learned are called morin khuur, added a powerful, otherworldly vibe.
"Tartar Warrior": This track brought focus to their percussions. Despite the fog and lights making it a bit hard to see, the rhythmic beats and special instruments were captivating.
"Upright Destined Mongol": This upbeat track showcased their versatility and introduced me to the bowed string instruments. The seamless blend of traditional and modern elements was fascinating.
"Mother Nature": Slower and more introspective, this song brought out the emotional depth of their music. With the crowd holding up phone lights, the moment felt deeply moving. The guitar solo in the middle added a nice touch of rock balladry.
"Black Thunder": When they announced this track, the energy spiked. The throat singing at the start was intense, setting the stage for one of their most powerful performances of the night.
Final Tracks & Encore:
The latter part of the set included crowd favorites like "Wolf Totem" and "This is Mongol," which brought the show to its climax. The encore featured "Sad But True," a surprising yet fitting end to an unforgettable night.
Final Thoughts:
Both Blind Channel and The Hu delivered performances that showcased their unique strengths. Blind Channel’s raw energy and crowd interaction were unmatched, while The Hu brought a cultural and musical richness that was both enlightening and entertaining. For a first-time listener, The Hu’s music is far more accessible than you’d expect—perfect for both active listening and background enjoyment.
This concert was a testament to the power of live music to bring people together and introduce them to new sounds and experiences. If you ever get the chance to see either of these bands live, don’t hesitate—it’s an adventure you won’t regret.
