Anathema - Universal (Album Review)

As this DVD's opening credits twinkle into life, it’s clear that their star-spangled surroundings typify the band's boundaries - there are none, and they shoot for the sky. Over two decades into their career, Anathema don't just make music for themselves, but put on a show that fans won’t forget in a hurry.

Recorded on September 23, 2012 by the acclaimed Lasse Hoile, ‘Universal’ documents the band's performance at the ancient Roman theatre of Philippopolis, alongside the Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra.

​The recording itself is beautiful, cutting between a number of angles of the band and audience that flow cohesively. Play it on the biggest HD TV you can find, and you'll be blown away by the quality.

The band’s latest album, 'Weather Systems', was a creative peak that they had been heading towards for years, and what better way to celebrate it than with a philharmonic orchestra? Their backing really enhances Anathema’s work, with The Storm Before The Calm proving a stand out. Dreaming Light, A Simple Mistake, Deep and Flying also make notable impacts.

The main issue, though, is that it’s so professional at times that the relationship between band and audience is lost in translation. There are some moments that really show a palpable atmosphere - and when those spark, the show really surpasses all expectations - but too often it's polished and pristine. For fans, this is a must have. For those yet to be convinced, it’s unlikely to provide any moments of clarity.

More Reviews from Heather McDaid

Chuck Ragan - Till Midnight

Black Lips - Underneath The Rainbow

Katy B - Little Red

Augustines - Augustines

Tom Brosseau - Grass Punks

Decade - Good Luck

XXX: Three Decades Of Roadrunner Records

Strange Names - Strange Names

Drones - Free Marked Kid

Tonight Alive - The Other Side

The Kev Walker Band - Biding My Time

Avenged Sevenfold - Hail To The King

Related News

Anathema Confirm UK Shows As Part Of European 'We're Here Because We're Here' 10th Anniversary Tour

Wed 02 Oct 2019

Anathema have announced a spring UK and European tour celebrating the 10th anniversary of 'We're Here Because We're Here'.

Anathema Announce Autumn European Ambient Acoustic Tour

Fri 10 Aug 2018

Anathema will unplug for a series of live dates across the UK and Europe later this year.

Anathema Share Video For Can't Let Go

Mon 18 Sep 2017

Photo: Caroline Traitler Anathema have shared a video for Can't Let Go.

Sevendust Pull Out Of Alter Bridge's December UK Arena Tour

Thu 12 Dec 2019

Sevendust have pulled out of Alter Bridge's fast approaching Walk The Sky Tour.

Silverstein To Mark 20th Anniversary With Release Of Ninth Studio Album 'A Beautiful Place To Drown'

Wed 08 Jan 2020

Silverstein will celebrate their 20th anniversary with the release of a new album.

Roger Waters Announces Summer North American Arena Tour

Thu 23 Jan 2020

Roger Waters will embark on a North American arena tour this summer.

Dave Matthews Band Announce Summer North American Tour

Fri 24 Jan 2020

Dave Matthews Band have announced a summer North American tour.