Heilung conducted their mesmerizing ceremonial ritual in Huntsville, Alabama, at the Mark C. Hall Concert Hall on Wednesday, October 25, 2023. It’s difficult to find a more fitting term than “magical” to describe Heilung’s rituals. Their live musical presentations are truly one-of-a-kind, often referred to as “amplified history.”
The evening commenced with a captivating opening ceremony led by Kai Uwe Faust. He took the stage to cleanse the venue of negative energy, accompanied by tranquil, naturalistic sounds. After purifying the space, the entire crew gathered on stage, forming a circle as Kai recited the ritual’s opening. From that point onward, the night revolved around healing and the infusion of positive energy, conveyed through entrancing stage performances. This show is best experienced from a slightly more distant vantage point, as there is an abundance of sensory experiences to absorb, all in the best possible way.
The music itself is a fusion of melodic, hauntingly beautiful serenades from Maria Franz, complemented by Kai’s deep-throated growls. They are supported by a chorus of backup singers and warriors chanting in unison, creating a sound that can be described as a unique blend of pagan Germanic and Scandinavian folk music.
The stage presence is unparalleled, with an atmosphere suffused in earthy hues and enveloped in mist. The scent of sage wafts through the rafters, making the ritual a sensory phenomenon that defies easy description. “Traust” stands out as a particular highlight, portraying what appears to be the journey of a warrior through stages of death and rebirth. It includes Kai’s symbolic use of shibari ties with a spear to represent wounds. As the warrior falls, the song continues, and Maria approaches to release the warrior from the shibari-bound spear, symbolizing rebirth. It’s a beautiful display of artistic expression.
As the ritual reaches its climax, the final piece, “Hamrer Hippyer,” is played. Warriors, backup singers, and drummers come together in a joyful celebration of dance and laughter, drawing the audience into their revelry. Warriors even venture into the standing room area of the pit to dance with the audience. Just as the ritual began, it ends, with Kai saging the venue, the performers, and the attendees.
Attending a Heilung ritual is an astonishing, spiritual, and liberating experience. The very name “Heilung” means healing in German, and that is indeed the most fitting description of their performance. After such an event, you depart with a lighter spirit and a profound sense of serenity. If you have the opportunity to see Heilung in your area, or if it requires a bit of a journey, do not miss out on this masterpiece.
Heilung’s North America tour continues through December 11th of 2023.
For upcoming shows, visit https://www.amplifiedhistorytour.com/.
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Photos and Review by Adam Colwell (@pixelsoftheimagination)
