A chilly winter night in London in January, what better way to welcome the return of Paganfest after a decade and more?

The hordes were treated to some absolutely quality music with Elvenking kicking things off.

Elvenking delivered their unique blend of ferocious riffage and soothing melodies to turn the whirlwind upside down. Songs such as “Pagan Revolution,” and “Silverseal,” really whetted the appetite and the new treats “Thrones of Atonement,” and “Luna,” had the crowd moving and jiving. The band as always finished off with their classic “Elven Legions,” a song that just hits the spot every time.

Heidevolk stepped up next and got the crowd even more amped up. “Winter Woede,” and “A Wolf In My Heart,” slammed into the listener like a tonne of bricks. One could see the party atmosphere growing and when the band finished off with “Drinking With The Gods,” and “Vulgaris magistralis,” you could tell there were new fans in the audience.

Tyr, the finest export from the Faroe Islands emerged onto the stage with a thunderous “By The Sword In My Hand,” which caused the audience to surge forward. The atmosphere grew with every song as “Axes,” “Hammered,” and “Blood of Heroes,” threw the throng down and delivered the gut punch to the chest. “Dragons Never Die,” was next and by God was it a fun song, the crowd got going and the band seemed to feed off that energy. Finishing up with “Hold The Heathen Hammer High,” was the perfect way to go.

Next to the stage were Ensiferum and boy what a show they provided. “Fatherland,” and “Twilight Tavern,” got the whole crowd moving, roaring into the night whilst “Winter Storm Vigilantes,” and “Lai Lai Hei,” got the dancing breaking out in full throng. “Two of Spades,” and “Iron,” were the perfect finish.

Finally we move onto the headliner, Alestorm. Scotland’s own turned out to bring the party. “Keelhauled,” “Alestorm,” “Mexico,” and “Hangover,” set the scene. The rest of the set was one party hit after another as the crowd responded with frenzy and energy. The band matched it with shenanigans and ducks.

A perfect night, be sure to catch the tour:

https://www.paganfest.live/