Review and photos by Fraser Allen
On a chilly December evening, Camden’s iconic Electric Ballroom was alive with anticipation. The queue stretched down the street and around the corner as fans braved the cold, eager to see an exciting lineup of bands. The venue, renowned for hosting memorable gigs, provided the perfect setting for a night filled with energy, passion, and a few surprises.
The evening kicked off with Italian alt-rock trio Halflives. Before tonight, my exposure to the band was limited to their latest EP, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. However, it didn’t take long for them to exceed my expectations. Halflives brought a heavier sound to the stage than I had anticipated, with their performance blending alternative rock hooks with a touch of modern heaviness.
Lead vocalist Linda Battilani commanded attention with her strong stage presence, effortlessly engaging the crowd. Her charisma was matched by her eye-catching studded footwear, which became a talking point among fans near the front. One of the standout moments of their set was their 2023 single Everybody Knows It. This infectiously catchy track had the audience swaying and singing along, proving its undeniable appeal.
Adding an unexpected twist to their set, Halflives performed a remarkably authentic cover of Linkin Park’s The Emptiness Machine. This bold choice resonated with the crowd, many of whom were longtime Linkin Park fans, and the electric response underscored Halflives’ ability to honor a legacy while making the cover their own.
As the stage lights dimmed and the second act prepared to take over, there was a palpable sense of excitement in the room. Next up were German metalcore titans From Fall to Spring. Fronted by twin brothers Philip and Lukas Wilhelm, the band wasted no time in bringing their high-octane energy to the crowd.
From Fall to Spring’s performance was a masterclass in modern metalcore, drawing comparisons to early Linkin Park but with an added dose of youthful exuberance and bouncy energy. The Wilhelms showcased their impressive range, seamlessly transitioning between rapping, clean vocals, and fierce screams, creating a dynamic and engaging live experience.
Their setlist leaned heavily on tracks from their acclaimed 2023 album Rise, delivering crowd favorites like Destined and Supernova. Each song was met with a surge of energy from the audience, who fed off the band’s enthusiasm. Midway through their set, they delighted the crowd with a rendition of Linkin Park’s In The End. The iconic song turned the room into a massive sing-along, uniting fans in a nostalgic moment that highlighted From Fall to Spring’s knack for connecting with their audience.
Both Halflives and From Fall to Spring succeeded in firing up the crowd, leaving them primed and ready for the headliners, Smash Into Pieces. While the latter band may have been the main attraction, the opening acts delivered performances that could have easily headlined a show of their own.
The Electric Ballroom proved, once again, why it’s a cornerstone of Camden’s vibrant music scene. On nights like this, it’s clear that the venue doesn’t just host concerts—it creates unforgettable experiences. For fans of alternative and metalcore music, Halflives and From Fall to Spring are two bands to keep on your radar. With their energetic performances and knack for connecting with the crowd, they both have bright futures ahead.
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