Hey guys and gals! It’s been a real scorcher, but there’s nothing like heavy metal to keep you cool – and the specifically doomy brand we have coming to town this August will be the perfect way to wave goodbye to sunshine and usher in the fall. The fact that both Pallbearer and Boris are coming here this month should be enough to get most fans and excited, and our very own doom icons Khemmis are setting off on tour. Here are a few of the don’t-miss metal events taking place this month.
Khemmis Tour Kickoff
Where: Hi-Dive, 7 S. Broadway
When: Thursday, August 4, 9 p.m.
Cost: $10
The Low Down: Support your local doom scene by coming out to see our hometown heroes tear it up before hitting the road. If you aren’t familiar with Khemmis, you should be; they are coming up fast as one of the biggest metal bands in Denver to watch, and they are a ton of fun to see live. They will be joined by other local favorites Call of the Void and Muscle Beach at this show.
Dreadnought
Where: 3 Kings Tavern 60 S Broadway
When: Friday, August 12, 10 p.m.
Cost: $5
The Low Down: An extremely affordable show this month, local prog band Dreadnought are headlining a special 3 Kings set. The group has been making a major name for themselves outside of Denver with their unique style that incorporates flute and keyboards. Ford Theater Reunion, Gravity Tapes and False Cathedrals are also on the show.
Boris play Pink, Earth
When: Friday, August 19, 9 p.m.
Where: The Bluebird Theater, 3317 E. Colfax
Cost: $20 in advance, $25 the day of
The Low Down: While not technically metal in the strictest sense of the word, Boris embody the spirit of all that is metal, punk and raw. This is a not-to-miss show, as they will be performing their iconic album, Pink, in its entirety. They will also be joined by the amazing doomy, atmospheric Earth. If you are a fan of music that can’t quite be categorized, but still totally crushes, you will want to be at this show. For those who get so hyped by this event that they need more metal, Lost Lake is hosting an after party specifically timed to follow this show, with thrashers Muscle Beach headlining.
Abrams
When: Sunday, August 21, 9 p.m.
Where: 3 Kings Tavern, 60 S. Broadway
Cost: $6
The Low Down: Local introspective metalers Abrams are playing a super cheap set at 3 Kings. Not only will you get to catch their slowed-down vibes, they will be joined by Family, Wayfarer and the brutal Of Feather and Bone. If you have a limited budget for metal this month, this is the show to go to.
Pallbearer
When: Thursday, August 25, 8 p.m.
Where: Larimer Lounge
Cost: $15 in advance, $18 the day of
The Low Down: A band that needs no introduction, Pallbearer play a blend of beautiful and heart-wrenching doom that quite literally calls to mind the soundtrack of a funeral procession. They’ve brought some unique tropes to their approach on metal, such as embracing clean vocals and encouraging sing-along courses, although they are still heavy as hell. Locals Khemmis, introduced above, are the perfect addition to this bill to make for an unforgettable night.