In early March, Omega Crom set out on a cross-Canada tour to promote their upcoming release, Blood, Steel & Fire [Reversed Records, 2010]. The tour carried them through the heart of the prairies, and as far east as Montreal, before performing their way back toward their home province of British Columbia, where they’ll end up later this month.

The Vancouver-based metallers had five Alberta dates on the tour schedule, including a crushing set at The Distillery in Calgary, Alta. on Mar. 12. Calgary’s own Razorwing started off the night. The four-piece had a short but solid set, and their relaxed, laid back stage presence was a good match for the small but enthusiastic crowd.

The Order of Chaos, visiting from Edmonton, Alta. were exactly what was needed though, drawing show goers away from the bar and up front and personal with the stage. Soon releasing their own album, a follow-up to their 2009 self-titled, self-released debut, The Order of Chaos are veterans at getting people moving through their own high energy performances.

By the time Omega Crom took the stage, the crowd was ready to rock out: heads were banging, hair was flying, and many a fist were raised at the end of each song. Bassist Ian Wilcke was noticeably absent on this leg of the tour, due to personal reasons, but was seamlessly filled in for by X. According to vocalist Johnny Ketlo, X recently moved to B.C. from Brazil and learned their songs just a week before heading out on the road with the guys.

Overall, the power thrash act put on a fantastic show, gave the audience a real taste of what can be expected when Blood, Steel & Fire comes out April 2, and a solid insight into the work ethic of the band, who put a great energy into their set, as though the venue was packed from wall to wall.

Read what Pitch Black’s newest writers have to say about Omega Crom’s latest album in the revamped Soundcheck!