Live Review : King Diamond + Paradise Lost + Unto Others @ Academy, Manchester on June 30th 2025

It’s not every night that you get the chance to watch a traditional heavy metal band deliver a slice of Vaudeville horror theatrics, but that’s what King Diamond provide us tonight at the Manchester Academy. In support they have the always outstanding gothic-metal veterans Paradise Lost and gothic post-punk rock outfit Unto Others.

First-on support is provided by Unto Others, who are best described as a blend of gothic rock, traditional metal, and post-punk. It’s a sound that melts together to produce something that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. The Portland USA-based band has cultivated a loyal following, and the decent sized early crowd tonight indicates that their fusion of post-punk melancholy and heavy metal grit has interest in the North West of the UK. As they play through their set it feels like they’re channelling the spirit of bands like The Sisters of Mercy throwing-down with Iron Maiden while The Cure and Killing Joke watch on shouting their opinion.

They’re clearly carving out a niche that feels both familiar and forward-looking. Frontman Gabriel Franco commands attention without unnecessary theatrics - his vocals, part low velvet croon and part raspy growl, bring an emotional nuance that threads through all the tracks. The band demonstrates an impressive ability to balance engaging guitar melodies over pounding drums, while the lyrics sweep between romantic despair and stern defiance. Their songs hit hardest when they have a dynamically tight and urgent feel tinged with a unique moodiness. Every member contributes to the sound with precision, but without losing the raw, emotive quality that gives their sound bite. The set flies by but the energy in the room is held long after it reaches its peak.

Main support is provided by the irrepressible Paradise Lost. There’s no need for fanfare, pyro or posturing, just a band who’ve long since transcended the need for introductions. They hold the anticipation of the crowd with a humble poise of veterans who know they helped shape an entire genre. From the opening chords it’s clear we’re in for a passionate and full-blooded performance, even though it’s now ridiculously boiling hot in the venue. Frontman Nick Holmes stands centre-stage, statuesque and weathered, delivering his vocals with a menace sharpened by experience not dulled by it. He effortlessly switches between haunting baritone cleans and deep growls with unnerving ease.

The setlist tonight is a whirling journey through their catalogue, including gothic rock-metal monoliths like ‘Pity the Sadness’ and ‘The Last Time’ - each track seamlessly bleeding into the next with no need for dead weight. Greg Mackintosh lets his lead lines soar and rip, every note bathed in grandeur, while the rhythm section keep it grounded with a wall of sound that could be carved from coal and true Yorkshire grit. There’s no arrogance here either, it’s humble and heartfelt appreciation for the crowd and their energy. In return Paradise Lost deliver a set that is tight but never sterile, visceral but never sloppy. Holmes slips in some quips between songs, but even without these the music could do more than all the talking if needed. By the time the final riffs ring out and the crowd is left gleefully awash with the feeling of gratitude. Paradise Lost – dark, majestic and unrelenting.

And so to our mighty headliners King Diamond. The venue is buzzing with energy and anticipation well before the first riff, and as the lights reveal a gothic stage setup it’s clear this is more than just a straight-up metal gig. The Danish traditional heavy metal band have been knocking about since 1985, and are known for their theatrical storytelling, horror-themed concept albums and the unmistakable falsetto of frontman Kim Bendix Petersen aka King Diamond himself.

It’s a masterfully eerie performance tonight from start to finish, delivering a signature blend of theatrical storytelling and razor-sharp musicianship. Staircases either side of the main central raised drumkit offer the opportunity to all members of the band to roam around and enter into the Vaudeville nature of the performance. Hell, we even have a gothic horror doll dancer and character take the stage at various intervals to fully realise the piece.

Kim Bendix Petersen might lead the charge with his unmistakable falsetto and commanding stage presence, but this isn’t a one-man show. The band as a whole operate like a well-oiled machine, blending narrative-driven heavy metal with oodles of dramatic flair. Long-time guitarist Andy LaRocque continues to be a standout performer, delivering technically brilliant solos that elevate many of the tracks. The rhythm section is tight and relentless which allows even the most theatrical moments to be grounded in a foundation of haunting power. Their set moves with confidence and professionality, but also theatrical panache. The crowd is enthralled from start to finish, responding not just to the music but also to the storytelling, staging and atmosphere. Between songs Kim Bendix Petersen engages with the audience with a mix of dry humour and eerie charm which gives the night some unexpected levity and warmth. It’s a great reminder that behind the horror aesthetic is a band that genuinely enjoys what they do – as do we.

Check the “In The Flesh” page for more photos!
King Diamond + Paradise Lost + Unto Others