We must acknowledge, and even his detractors admit, that Christofer Johnsson has never concealed his intentions. With the extensive discography of his band Therion bearing witness to his penchant for pomposity and exaggeration (the now ancient Symphony Masses – Ho Drakon Ho Megas dates back to 1993).
This is a concept of lavish presentation, which does not, however, detract from the lyrics. And if there is one, and I emphasize one, band that deserves the distinctive adjective ‘symphonic’, then yes, it is Therion. They are approaching 40 years of career. It is characterized by a distinctive sound that clearly sets them apart from the crowded genre to which they belong. In summary, they have released nineteen studio albums and a difficult-to-count number of singles, compilations, and live albums. With unique initiatives, such as Classical Goes Metal, which they shared with their kindred spirits (in spirit and militancy) Epica.
With Con Orquesta, Therion “make it even more magnificent”
And it is precisely live that Therion can expand their sound. It makes it even more magnificent than the already rich soundscapes that embellish their work. This is Johnsson‘s vision. To compose solemn works that remain within the realm of so-called extreme music, infusing them with his exuberant personality. But Therion is a band, a close-knit group, not the emanation of an ego, however clearly defined.
Before Con Orquesta, once upon a time The Miskolc Experience
In 2009, Therion released The Miskolc Experience. Wagner, Verdi, Dvorák, choir, and orchestra accompany and comfort the orchestral temptations of Johnsson and his associates.
In 2024, the experience is renewed at the Mexico City Arena in Mexico City. The set list includes Quetzacoatl, from Lemuria, and the cover iconography refers to the history and traditions of the host country. It will welcome the voices of Thomas Vikström, Lori Lewis, and Rosalía Sairem, now an indispensable live presence. For example, listen to them performing Ten courts of Diyu, the essence of pomp rock).
Con Orquesta: “Adheres to the narrative and makes it more majestic”
They are the main actors in this performance, with Johnsson and Vidal giving themselves ample space to showcase their talent. And Karppinen and Davidsson providing the necessary substance. Ample soundscapes are shared with the Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional de México (which Vikström announces as the “Orchestra Synchrofonia”) conducted by the impeccable Rodrigo Cadet. He does not limit his presence to an honest appearance but rather adheres to the narrative and makes it more majestic, literally dazzling, in unison with an opulent staging.
The arrangements of the twenty episodes
The arrangements of the twenty episodes that make up the final set list, among which two unexpected covers stand out, Marie Laforêt’s Mon amour mon ami and Sylvie Vartan‘s La Maritza (performed one after the other), support the operatic function, and the vocal qualities of the three performers are indisputable (even if Vikström shows signs of fatigue in some moments).
Con Orquesta: “The epilogue is epic”
As well as the technical skills of the instrumentalists (I am referring, of course, to Therion; there can be no doubt about the orchestra), watching the video of the concert (the images are clear and seductive), there is a clear sense that the orchestra members are enjoying the evening, the brief and inevitable pauses (when necessary) are well managed. The rest is played out by the set design, the imposing stage, the lights, the flames and, above all, the 11,000 adoring fans in attendance. But above all, the songs. The epilogue is epic, with the martial cadence of The Rise of Sodom and Gomorrah and the Swedes’ manifesto song To Mega Therion.
Final words for Con Orquesta
This work should be judged for its specific function. Which it is to give free rein to individual creativity, providing it with an appropriate stage. Then, if supporters and detractors (Therion does not allow for easy middle ground) have a further excuse to divide themselves clearly. It is indisputable that the Swedes have created truly archetypal works over the years.
Let’s enjoy the show as if we were there. We’ll think about the rest tomorrow.
Track list
CD 1
- The Blood of Kingu
- The Ruler of Tamag
- The Birth of Venus Illegitima
- Tuonela
- Twilight of the Gods
- Mon Amour mon Ami
- La Maritza
- Via Nocturna
- Asgård
- Draconian Trilogy
CD 2
- Ginnungagap
- Ten Courts of Diyu
- Litany of the Fallen
- Siren of the Woods
- Son of the Staves of Time
- Lemuria
- Sitra Ahra
- Quetzalcoatl
- The Rise of Sodom and Gomorrah
- To Mega Therion
Line Up
- Christofer Johnsson – Guitar
- Christian Vidal – Guitar
- Christopher Davidsson – Bass
- Sami Karppinen – Drums
- Thomas Vikström – Vocals
- Rosalia Sairem – Vocals
- Lori Lewis – Vocals