Heilung’s Ritual Sells Out Red Rocks

Heilung performs a sold-out show at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado (Photo credit: Maurice Nunez)

MAURICE NUNEZ | Go Venue Magazine

Last time I had the privilege to see Heilung was back in January 2020. They had sold out the Ogden Theater in Denver. This time around would be the first time Heilung had played in the US since last year’s shut down. Tonight, the 5th of October, they returned and brought their ritual to a SOLD-OUT crowd at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado. If you’re not familiar with the group, Heilung was formed in 2014 by German vocalist Kai Uwe Faust and Danish multi-instrumentalist and studio engineer Christopher Juul. Shortly after, Norwegian singer Maria Franz joined the band. They describe their music as Amplified History from early medieval Northern Europe. They take listeners back to the Bronze Age, using ancient instruments and objects while they sing and chant in varies languages including German, English, Gothic, and other Viking age variations. Their instruments include drums, bones, horns, and ritual bells.

Thanks to Heilung and record label, Season of Mist, tonight I’d have an exclusive look into their anticipated performance. The afternoon prior to the show, I had had the honor to meet the members outside their hotel. Even then you could see the preparation it took to make this happen as members were gathering and stacking piles of wood to use for their performance the following evening. This was evident the next day as I arrived at the venue early to see them continuing to chop wood and set up the stage like true warriors. Amazing to see them transform the stage to a place that appeared like a sanctuary in the middle of the forest.

The evening finally came as the Heilung fans quickly filled up the venue. A very dedicated fan base was immediately evident. Many of the fans were dressed in old Nordic Bronze Age clothing, just like the Heilung members. Great to see such a dedicated fan base. Tonight there were no openers, just Heilung and they were performing to a SOLD-OUT Red Rocks crowd!

Heilung‘s performance took the audience back in time and brought a very raw and ritualistic experience to the Red Rocks Amphitheater. The powerful vocals of Maria Franz and the heavy throat growls of Kai Uwe Faust are a perfect combination. Their vocals coupled with the tribal drumbeats and stage presence makes this show a truly unique experience.

The name Heilung translates to “healing” in German, which is exactly what their performance leaves you feeling. It’s a very intense, yet soothing experience from start to finish. Red Rocks was the perfect venue for such an occasion. This was truly a historic and memorable performance.

We hope we have the pleasure of having Heilung back in the US again soon. See full set-list and photos below.

Opening Ceremony | In Maidjan | Alfadhirhaiti | Krigsgaldr | Hakkerskaldyr | Svanrand | Norupo | Othan | Traust | Galgaldr | Elddansurin | Hamrer Hippyer

All images © Maurice Nunez
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