In a heretic land, metal reigns supreme. Belphegor and friends joined forces to bring upon Los Angeles a maelstrom of music. Narcotic Wasteland, Incantation, and Hate annihilated the 1720 warehouse. This is where most of the LA local scene has been displaying their talent. No mercy upon the masses was shown, the dark ominous stage was set ablaze.

Narcotic Wasteland, fronted by Dallas Toler-Wade ex-Nile delivered a barrage of pain. Track after track was filled with heavy riffs, fast metal and insane guitar solos. The seasoned lead singer displayed an astounding energy on stage. Kenji, on lead guitars delivers insane solos and masters his 8 string guitar. Behind the drums, Austin “Boyardee” Vicars delivers the cannon sounds to each deadly track. Yes, his nickname is “Boyardee”, as he consumed a ridiculous amount of the homebrand during this tour, cold as ice. Kids, maybe that’s the secret to being a ferocious drummer. Non-the-less, Narcotic Wasteland have toured Europe and this North American tour was just another day in the office.

Polish death metal outfit, Hate came in carrying that brutal flag. The band has been in the trenches since 1991, with a powerful sound and gruesome vocals. The band delivers a solemn yet invigorating performance. Solo after solo and ferocious drum work knocked the fans off their feet. Lead singer Adam The First Sinner delivers potent vocals. His dynamic singing enhanced the intense drum work. The fans raged and moshed as “The Vanguard” was unleashed. Hate delivered tracks from their most recent work. These include Bellum Regiis and Auric Gates of Veles. Both albums have been released via Metal Blade Records. They set the stage for veterans Incantation.

With their most recent release in 2023, Unholy Deification, Incantation sweeps stages across the nation. This being the last night of the tour they packed the heat and played viciously. The band is not only touring and showcasing their musicianship. They are also collecting donated non-perishables to give to food banks. If that is not metal then let us all just die now. The metal head community showed great support. John McEntee, was very grateful and displayed a humane character not even pop stars can. To that, a tip of the hat. Their performance delivered annihilating tracks like “Offerings”, from the most recent opus. A great way to end the tour and rage in Los Angeles. Their set was fast and deadly, with amazing guitar technicality and blast beats. These guys do not get tired of touring. They will join Hatebreed on the upcoming 2026 Summer Slaughter. Make sure to get your tickets.

The blasphemous sounds of Belphegor filled the 1720 four walls, a ritual to witness. Helmuth standing tall on stage delivers a diabolical performance. From tracks like “Baphomet” and other classics like “Gasmask Terror” the night was as satanic as can be. No goats were harm during this performance, though the evil presence pervaded the hall and fans hailed Satan. Animal skulls were presented to the dark lords, and guitar riffs raised hell. The stage stood the assault of intense drum work and sacrilegious chants. Belphegor had a packed venue. Ominous music filled the air. The masses raged and celebrated a night packed with ravaging energy. When Belphegor comes to town, make sure to check them out, a ritual everyone should witness. Hail Satan.

By:Jose Barrientos

Photos BY: Jose Barrientos @rockbrary