ProgPower Europe 2023 PreParty with Novena
When we at The Progspace decided to invite Novena for the Pre-Party, we thought the Brits would be perfect for the party portion of the show, but we couldn't have imagined how high they would raise the bar! What a wild performance! Initially, it was announced that the whole band couldn't perform, so the semi-acoustic trio version was the best option. With mastermind Harrison White on electric piano, co-singer Pipi Gogerl, and bassist Moat Lowe, the trio appeared in various disguises: a bunny, Sesame Street's Cookie Monster, and a bloody apron, respectively. They took the stage at Kasteel DeBerckt Chapel to perform a mixed set of covers ranging from metal to pop classics, as well as Novena's own music. Some audience members even came exclusively for this show!
Harrison led the barely rehearsed and mostly improvised performance with his crazy antics, mirrored by the brilliant Pipi on the comfy chair. Moat, though occasionally appearing lost, followed through, accustomed to the madness of his bandmates. I know it sounds chaotic and unprofessional, but believe me, this show was one of the funniest and most well-prepared I've ever seen. I can't wait to hear more news about Novena as they seem to be - slowly - preparing a new album.