There’s no denying that Ice Nine Kills are dominating the horror metal scene right now – the Stephen King or John Carpenter of the music world if you will.
With 2023/24 tours supporting rock legends Metallica and a feature in the most recent Scream movie – quite literally a chilling ode to lead singer Spencer’s favourite franchise. They are quickly rising the ranks to become one of the most sought after acts in music and there’s no questioning why.
After an intense set at Download festival last year, the band announced a tour with posters dotted around the site but finally after reschedules they returned to Donington for another round reuniting with Metallica amidst their own UK/EU headliner – the Wurst Vacation Tour.
Supported by Defying Decay and Landsdowne – two acts who could easily have been headlining their own shows – Ice Nine Kills paid homage to the films that made them.
Opening with “Funeral Derangements” dedicated to the Stephen King classic Pet Sematary, the band brought their own take on the story to life and further spurred on the crowd who had pits racing from the very first minute Defying Decay and Landsdowne entered the room.
The set continued with songs such as “Ex-Mørtis”, “Communion Of The Cursed” and fan favourite “Assault And Batteries”, prompting melodic chants reminiscing the story of Chucky the doll. Ending the set was “Welcome To Horrorwood”, recognising the significance of the horror genre, its’ infamous tropes and the community it has created around the world.
The band recently opened a pop-up shop in London for one day only, allowing fans a one-of-a-kind experience with a meet and greet, limited edition merch, themed catering and makeup artists to immerse themselves further into the world that Ice Nine Kills have created.
It was a huge success leaving many wanting more, and that was evident at their Nottingham date of tour. The mutual love for horror is celebrated in a unique way, truly making Ice Nine Kills events a cut above the rest.
Words + photography by Kcorra Mia
