Review – Blackout Problems, Thekla, 16th November
Bristol welcomed home one of its adopted bands last Saturday when German alt-rockers Blackout Problems returned to the city. They had last performed here in February 2023 as the support act for Enter Shikari.
This time, the iconic black-bellied Thekla played host to a headline set as part of their Riot tour. Bristol marked the penultimate stop on a mammoth 24-date journey, which took in Germany, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria, Hungary, Poland, Czechia, and now the UK, before culminating with a huge hometown finale in Munich.
Background
Blackout Problems burst onto the scene in 2012. Known for their energetic live performances and socially conscious lyrics, they have rapidly gained popularity both domestically and internationally. The core lineup—Mario Radetzky (guitar/vocals), Marcus Schwarzbach (bass/vocals), and Moritz Hammrich (guitar/vocals)—often collaborates with a rotating roster of live drummers, including notable names like Marius Bornmann (Heisskalt) and Jo Pressl. This dynamic approach adds a fresh energy to their performances.
The band’s music frequently addresses significant social issues, including climate change, social injustice, and personal struggles. Their introspective and thought-provoking lyrics are paired with powerful melodies and driving rhythms.
Their discography includes acclaimed albums such as Life (2012), HOLY (2016), KAOS (2018), and DARK (2021). Their latest release, RIOT (2024), reflects their continued evolution and dedication to creating impactful music.
Beyond the studio, Blackout Problems are celebrated for their electrifying live shows. They’ve performed at major festivals and venues across Europe, captivating audiences with raw energy and passion. Their relevance in their home country was evident at Thekla, where the front rows were peppered with German accents from loyal fans who had traveled just for this gig.
The Show
Having caught their last performance in Bristol, I thought I knew what to expect. How wrong I turned out to be.
The band delivered a mammoth 21-song set, including a four-song encore. The energy built from a strong start to moments of utter mayhem. Mario Radetzky refused to be confined to the small stage, and by the end of the night, his fingerprints were likely etched on every surface in the venue.
At various points, he stage-dived from the top of the bar, serenaded the crowd from the balcony, and leapt off that very same balcony into the waiting arms of the packed floor. He even stood atop an upended equipment chest, orchestrating a circle pit at its base while shredding his guitar. This wasn’t just a gig; it was an arena-level show condensed into the intimate, unique confines of Thekla.
The energy the band exuded was astonishing, especially given their gruelling tour schedule. As they explained, “We live for this.”
The Music
Unsurprisingly, we got 10 tracks from the new album RIOT, including standout performances of “Puzzle,” “Palermo,” and “Rome.” The set also delved deeply into their hugely successful 2021 album, DARK. The love in the room was palpable when the opening notes of “Murderer” began, with the crowd taking over the choruses entirely.
A major highlight of the night was Lake Malice joining the band on stage for a duet of their latest single, “Quicker Than Death.” This joint release was superb to hear live, and it was a real standout moment.
For all the on- and off-stage antics, Blackout Problems remain deeply committed to tackling societal issues. This was never more evident than during “Germany, Germany, Germany,” also from DARK. This song’s poignant lyrics stopped me in my tracks. The band’s ability to combine fun and chaos with deeply meaningful messages is a testament to their talent as both musicians and songwriters.
Final Thoughts
The difference between seeing Blackout Problems as a support act and as headliners was striking, and I’m glad to have experienced the real Blackout Problems.
The night ended on a magical note. A soft pink and blue hue enveloped the stage as tens of thousands of bubbles filled the room, accompanying the band’s final song, “Funeral.”
As the band gathered for their bow, they were met with a well-deserved roar of approval from a Bristol (and German) crowd that had been truly wowed.
@thebristolnomad / @bristolnomad_gigphotography
Role: Photographer / Reviewer / Interviewer
Chief, the one that bugs the team for team for their reviews and images. Creator and founder of The Bristol Gig Guide. Can usually be found swamped in admin or getting cramp kneeling at the front of a gig.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Gig Reviews, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots, Videography work, Interviews and Touring
First attended gig: Republica, circa 1996.
First gig shot: Hands Off Gretel, at The Louisiana!
Dream gig: Huge metalhead and my ultimate dream gig would be shooting my heroes Slipknot at a huge stadium gig, or as festival headliners. And to experience shooting a headline tour outside the UK
