The ancient Persians worshipped fire, so much so that they believed fire was the sacred symbol of purity. The Zorastarians, as they were known, never held a ritual without the presence of this sacred conflagration, understanding that fire represented the light of their god, Ahura Mazda. The same light burned brightly on Monday night at Strange Matter, where doom metal gods, High on Fire, opened up the heavens and reigned down the sacred incantations conjuring snakes of the divine, bastard samurai, and the falconers.
And the Jackal is Here
Lead Singer Matt Pike is a living legend. Part sage, part prophet, and part wizard, Pike has been a genre defining madman who’s understanding of the sonic landscape has shaped countless bands over the years. The sold-out show at Strange Matter on Monday only proved the staying power of High On Fire and delivered their rightful place alongside the ancient gods who understood that “death is this communion.”
Some of the best photos from the show can be found below:
The Minion Seek to Resurrect a God
Winter in Veins Hammers Arise
Deepweed Sets Emotion, Hardening of the Warrior
Given Your Sentence, You’re Handed the Snakes of Divine
Hammer of Death Delivers the Blow
Razor Hoof, Coming Down
Black Arena, Till the Death
Divine, Fire Spitter
Mother of all Creation, Gives Doom to Generations
Photos by Landon Shroder
