Sylosis

Sylosis Live at HIRSCH, Nürnberg – 27 January 2026

Prepare yourselves, Nürnberg, for an evening of blistering riffs, intricate melodies, and raw, unadulterated metal power. On Tuesday, 27 January 2026, the esteemed HIRSCH venue will play host to one of the UK’s most formidable modern metal exports: Sylosis. This is not just another gig; it’s an opportunity to witness a band at the zenith of their technical prowess and songwriting acumen, delivering a performance that will resonate long after the final chord has faded. Sylosis have carved a unique niche in the metal landscape, blending aggressive thrash sensibilities with progressive complexity and a melodic undercurrent that is both captivating and undeniably brutal. Their return to Nürnberg is a highly anticipated event for fans of intelligent, high-octane metal, promising an unforgettable night of sonic catharsis.

About Sylosis

Emerging from the UK’s vibrant metal scene, Sylosis have consistently pushed the boundaries of what modern metal can achieve since their formation in 2000. Spearheaded by the prodigious talent of guitarist and vocalist Josh Middleton, the band has cultivated a reputation for delivering technically adept and emotionally resonant music. Their early releases, such as the debut album The Fulcrum (2006) and its follow-up In Memory of the Fallen (2008), showcased a raw, thrash-infused sound that immediately garnered attention. However, it was with albums like Edge of the Earth (2011) and Monolith (2012) that Sylosis truly began to define their signature style, incorporating more progressive elements, intricate guitar work, and a depth of thematic exploration.

Their breakthrough, arguably, came with Dormant Heart (2015), an album lauded for its seamless blend of aggression and melody, featuring tracks that are now considered staples of their live set. “Mercy,” with its powerful chorus and searing guitar solos, and the epic journey of “Outsider” exemplify their ability to craft songs that are both accessible and challenging. The band’s commitment to sonic evolution continued with Cycle of Suffering (2020), which saw them embrace a slightly more direct and visceral approach without sacrificing their inherent complexity. Most recently, A Sign of Things to Come (2023) has been met with widespread critical acclaim, solidifying their position as leaders in their genre, with singles like “A Sign of Things to Come” and “Pariah” demonstrating their continued songwriting prowess and mastery of atmospheric tension. Throughout their career, Sylosis have consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to evolve, drawing inspiration from diverse metal subgenres while maintaining an unmistakable sonic identity. Their dedication to instrumental virtuosity, coupled with Middleton’s increasingly potent vocal delivery, makes them a force to be reckoned with.

Venue Information

HIRSCH is a well-established and beloved music venue located in the heart of Nürnberg. Renowned for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, HIRSCH has a long-standing tradition of hosting a diverse range of musical acts, from emerging artists to established international headliners. The venue’s layout is designed to ensure a fantastic viewing and listening experience for all attendees, with a well-equipped stage and a dedicated sound system that faithfully reproduces the power and nuance of live music. Whether you’re standing at the front, soaking in the energy, or enjoying the view from further back, HIRSCH provides an ideal setting for experiencing the intensity of a Sylosis performance. For complete venue details, including information on accessibility, bar facilities, and directions, please see our venue guide.

What to Expect

A Sylosis performance is an immersive and exhilarating experience, a testament to their mastery of both musicality and stage presence. Expect an evening that plunges you headfirst into their intricate sonic landscapes, from the ferocious intensity of their thrash-inspired moments to the expansive, melodic passages that define their more progressive leanings. The setlist is likely to be a carefully curated journey through their discography, featuring a healthy dose of fan favourites alongside material from their critically acclaimed recent album, A Sign of Things to Come. Tracks such as the anthemic “Worship Decay” from Dormant Heart, the relentlessly driving “Transient” from Cycle of Suffering, and the epic, multi-layered “The Third Law” from Monolith are strong contenders to be included, showcasing the band’s dynamic range. Newer material like the crushing riffs of “A Sign of Things to Come” and the atmospheric build-up of “Pariah” will undoubtedly feature, demonstrating the band’s current creative momentum.

Josh Middleton is not only a formidable guitarist, capable of delivering breathtaking solos and complex riffage with apparent ease, but also a commanding frontman. His vocal delivery, which has evolved significantly over the years to encompass a powerful and versatile range, adds a crucial layer of intensity and emotion to their sound. Expect a performance that is tight, precise, and executed with an undeniable passion. The interplay between the guitars is always a highlight, with Middleton and the other guitarists weaving intricate melodies and harmonies that are both technically impressive and deeply melodic. The rhythm section provides a relentless, thunderous backbone, driving the songs forward with unwavering power. The duration of a Sylosis headline set typically spans around 90 minutes, allowing ample time for them to delve into their extensive catalogue and deliver a truly satisfying experience. The energy levels will remain high throughout, punctuated by moments of quiet intensity that draw the audience in before exploding back into full-throttle metal. Be prepared for a physically demanding show, where the sheer force of the music will compel you to move.

FAQs

Q1: What is Sylosis’ musical style? Sylosis are known for their progressive thrash metal sound. They expertly blend fast-paced, aggressive riffing characteristic of thrash metal with the complex song structures, intricate musicianship, and often atmospheric elements found in progressive metal. Their music also features strong melodic undertones and a high level of technical proficiency.

Q2: How would you describe Josh Middleton’s vocal style? Josh Middleton’s vocal style has evolved significantly throughout Sylosis’ career. He employs a powerful and versatile delivery that ranges from aggressive, guttural screams and harsh vocals to cleaner, more melodic singing. This dynamic vocal approach adds considerable emotional depth and range to their songs.

Q3: Are Sylosis known for their instrumental prowess? Absolutely. Sylosis are widely recognised for their exceptional instrumental talent, particularly in their guitar work. Josh Middleton is a highly respected guitarist, known for his complex riffs, technical solos, and intricate song arrangements. The band as a whole demonstrates a high level of musicianship across all instruments.

Q4: What are some of Sylosis’ most popular songs that might be played live? Fans can likely expect to hear some of their most beloved tracks. Historically popular songs that are often featured in their live sets include “Mercy,” “Outsider,” “Worship Decay,” “Transient,” and “The Third Law.” Newer anthems from their latest album, such as “A Sign of Things to Come” and “Pariah,” are also highly probable inclusions.

Q5: Is Sylosis a band that engages with the audience during their shows? While Sylosis are primarily focused on delivering a technically brilliant and intense musical performance, Josh Middleton does engage with the crowd, often through powerful stage presence and direct communication between songs. Their focus is on the music, but the energy they generate creates a strong connection with the audience.

Q6: What can a first-time attendee expect from a Sylosis live performance? A first-time attendee can expect a high-energy, technically proficient, and emotionally impactful metal show. Sylosis deliver a powerful and dynamic performance that showcases their songwriting talent and instrumental virtuosity. Be prepared for intricate guitar work, driving rhythms, and a blend of aggression and melody that is both captivating and visceral. It’s a show that demands attention and rewards it with an unforgettable musical experience.