Could “convergence” be any better a word for the union of two progressive metal powerhouses? Prog-gods Periphery and Animals as Leaders joined forces for their “Convergence Tour” all across North America and recently made their mark in Houston this November. To what could we owe this honor? “While we’ve done some short runs and one-off shows with AAL over the years, the idea to do a full-scale, co-headlining tour of North America has been something both our camps have discussed for the better part of seven years. Unfortunately, we were never able to line things up. Until now,” explains Mark Holcomb of Periphery.
Animals As Leaders had already been on the road, beginning their own tour with “The Madness of Many”. Would they come through Texas a second time performing more tracks from their latest work?
A near 70-minute set included songs from all four albums, paying tribute to the songs that launched them onto the public eye- for prog metal listeners.
To have had two of the genre’s most respected and adored bands perform together on tour felt like a privilege. The technical variety and undeniable melodic mastery from both albums were brought to life on stage. The show delivered and more – hefty riffs, experimental tracks, and all things Djent abound.
All photos by Paula Horstman for Compose Yourself Magazine
Astronoid
Animals as Leaders
Periphery