Visions of Atlantis conquered Toronto with an epic show

Toronto became the ultimate destination for symphonic metal fans on April 9th, as Visions of Atlantis, part of the Armada Over North America 2025 tour, brought their thrilling live show to Lee’s Palace. The night promised an epic blend of powerful anthems and emotional moments and it exceeded all expectations. From the exclusive acoustic set for VIP attendees that opened the evening in an intimate atmosphere, to the explosive energy of the full show, Visions of Atlantis proved why they are at the helm of the new wave of symphonic metal. Supported by the electrifying performance of Seraina Telli as the opening act, it was a night of unforgettable music, overflowing passion, and a genuine connection with the fans.

Despite battling an asthma crisis that left me breathless and voiceless that day, and enduring a less-than-pleasant trip from Kingston to Toronto not to mention coming off three intense weeks of vacation in South America that kept me running at full speed, I can say without a doubt that every effort was worth it. Experiencing this concert in person was the ultimate reward, overcoming every obstacle along the way

VIP Acoustic Experience: A truly intimate moment, and an unexpected cultural connection

The VIP experience was, without a doubt, one of the highlights of the night. A private acoustic performance reserved for the closest fans, it fascinated me from the very first chord. Michele Guaitoli, who personally invited me to witness this intimate set, shined with his warm vocals and charismatic presence. His voice, paired with Clémentine Delauney (who appeared like a true angel on stage) created a magical atmosphere that embraced everyone in the room.

Both proved to be extraordinary performers, delivering acoustic renditions that revealed every nuance of their talent. But there was one detail that made this moment even more special for me: the percussion played by Thomas Caser. From the very first beats, I recognized a familiar sound, rarely heard here in Canada. It was the Peruvian cajón, a wooden percussion instrument that brings a warm, natural rhythm, deeply rooted in Afro-Peruvian music.

The cajón originated in Peru during the 18th century, born from the creativity of enslaved Africans who, deprived of their traditional drums, transformed simple wooden boxes into instruments of expression. Over time, this humble and soulful instrument became a symbol of Peruvian music, and its authentic sound has crossed borders to find its place in multiple genres worldwide, from flamenco and jazz to pop, and now, surprisingly, even acoustic metal performances.

Intrigued to hear this instrument in such a setting, I spoke with Thomas Caser after the set. With complete honesty, he shared that he wasn’t familiar with the details of the cajón's origins, yet that didn’t stop him from harnessing its unique sound to enrich the intimate atmosphere of the acoustic show. It was a fascinating moment worth highlighting, not only for the quality of the sound it added but also for the unexpected cultural connection that made me feel right at home, in the middle of this European musical journey across Canadian soil.

The result was a VIP experience of the highest level, a true gift for the senses, where every note resonated with sincerity and closeness.

Seraina Telli: a true revelation on the Toronto stage

The night kicked off with a pleasant surprise: Seraina Telli took the stage as the opening act, and she delivered an impeccable performance. Many will remember her as the original vocalist of the Swiss heavy metal band Burning Witches, with whom she recorded those first two albums that, personally, I’ve always loved for their power and authenticity.

I honestly wasn’t expecting to see her on this tour, and it was an absolute pleasure to witness an artist who has carved out her own path as a solo performer. Her current sound is a blend of heavy rock filled with raw emotion — something truly hard to find these days. Seraina doesn’t just have a great voice; she conveys a genuine passion for music that resonates in every note.

She delivered a nine-song set that kept the audience energized from start to finish, with highlights including “Addicted to Color”, “Wish You Well”, “I’m Not Sorry”, and “Modern Warrior”, among others. Her stage presence is magnetic, and her connection with the crowd was instant.

I had the chance to meet her in person and chat for a while, I found an artist who is down-to-earth, authentic, and fully dedicated to her craft. That personal encounter, combined with her electrifying stage energy, undoubtedly turned me into a fan of her solo work. Seraina Telli proved that she is much more than a former member of Burning Witches: she is a rising force in modern hard rock.

Seraina Telli Setlist :
Addicted to Color
Wish You Well
I’m Not Sorry
Take Care
Not One of Your Kind
All Your Tears / Remember You
I Dare to
Monkey & Zookeeper
Modern Warrior

View Seraina Telli Photo Gallery

Visions of Atlantis: more than just a band, a true brotherhood of corsairs

When it was time for Visions of Atlantis to take the stage, the atmosphere at Lee’s Palace completely transformed. It felt as if an entire pirate crew had landed in Toronto to seize command of the night. What surprised me the most was seeing so many fans dressed as real corsairs, waving flags and radiating contagious energy. The crowd was wonderfully diverse, with people of all ages (from young enthusiasts to seasoned metalheads) all united by the same passion.

The connection among the fans was immediate. I had brought the band’s latest album with me, hoping to get it signed, and as soon as others saw it, they smiled and made me feel like a true member of the crew. It was incredible how such a simple gesture created a brotherhood among strangers. You could feel the camaraderie in the air, something rarely experienced at concerts, and it elevated the magic of the evening even further.

The setlist was a true voyage through the essence of Visions of Atlantis, spanning 17 songs that kept the energy alive from start to finish. Anthems like “To Those Who Choose to Fight”, “Monsters”, “Clocks”, “Melancholy Angel”, and the powerful finale with “Master the Hurricane” and “Armada” had the crowd singing along with passion. The chants of “Hail Jolly Roger!” and “Armada!” still echo in my mind to this day, giving me strength to carry on.

Even though the fatigue from my travels and painful cramps were wearing me down, the energy flowing from Visions of Atlantis was better than any medicine. In that moment, I wasn’t just watching a live band, I was living a shared dream with hundreds of souls, all sailing the same course. Visions of Atlantis proved they are much more than a band; they are a way of life, an open invitation to dream and to sail together toward freedom.

The night of April 9th will remain etched in my memory as one of those experiences that go far beyond the music itself. Visions of Atlantis didn’t just deliver an impeccable concert; they gifted their fans a true journey of emotions, brotherhood, and shared dreams. From the intimate acoustic moments of the VIP Party to the thunderous finale of “Armada,” every moment was an invitation to set sail together toward new horizons.

Beyond the physical exhaustion I was carrying, and the pain that tried to slow me down, it was the music that held me up, the force that revived my energy and pushed me forward. That is the magic of Visions of Atlantis: they turn adversity into strength, fatigue into passion, and distance into a common home for everyone who follows them.

May the seas bring them back to Toronto soon, so that once again we can raise our voices and shout together: "Armada!"

Vision of Atlantis Setlist :
To Those Who Choose to Fight
The Land of the Free
Monsters
Heroes of the Dawn
Where the Sky and Ocean Blend
Clocks
Legion of the Seas
Tonight I'm Alive
Collide
Hellfire
The Dead of the Sea
Underwater
Magic of the Night
Pirates Will Return
Melancholy Angel
Encore:
Master the Hurricane
Armada

View Visions of Atlantis Photo Gallery

Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist