Manowar/Wastoid

Rock/Pop

Heavy power-metal stalwarts Manowar are one of those bands that inspire great allegiance in their fans, stronger than the usual rabid fandom: They have their own salute. If you don't know it, don't go. In the same vein, Manowar takes their music more seriously than may be required. They call it "more than a religion," and signed their record contract with their own blood. When they play live, they want to blow your fucking head off. Otherwise, what would be the point? Mix in a love of beautiful women, steel horses and ever-flowing champagne and you have it: brothers and sisters together, lasciviously worshipping the music and its idols. Bacchanal was never this heavy. The Manowar after-party in the Balcony also promises to be a seriously fun time, with the newly reunited Wastoid, a.k.a. Philly's most powerful metal (we're talking true metal) band. Expect a big show. Severed goat heads with red, glow-y eyes? Huge furry Sasquatch boots? Leather mixed with pleather mixed with mirrors? All already done up Wastoid-style, and none of which are the special, secret surprise they have in store. Don't miss out.

The Gods of War Tour 2002, Sat., April 27, 7 p.m., $20, with Manowar, Immortal, Catastrophic and Havoc Hate; after-party with Wastoid, 11 p.m., $5, Trocadero, 10th and Arch sts., 215-922-LIVE.

—Alex Richmond

-- Respond to this article in our Forums -- click to jump there